Karla M. (Northington) Simone returned to her Heavenly Father, reuniting with her parents and her sisters, on June 5, 2015. Karla courageously and relentlessly battled ovarian cancer for more than 7 years, under the guidance of Dr. Christopher Sirridge and with the extraordinary staff at the KU/KC Cancer Center. She loved the staff there and was especially appreciative of the personalized care she received from Jerilyn, Deb, Christine, and Sue Ellen.

Karla was born the third of four daughters to Marian (Brenner) and Carl Northington. She grew up in Northeast KC, where she proudly attended Holy Trinity Catholic School and graduated from Cardinal Glennon High School in 1964.

Karla prided herself on being a loyal and dedicated mother, wife, and friend. She would race her Lincoln around, transporting kids from baseball fields to basketball courts. She was the team score keeper and loudest fan. She always kept her children focused on learning, praying, and playing sports. Karla was constantly teaching her kids and having them practice skills like their times tables, readings for Mass, free-throws in the back yard, and folding sheets. She continued these rituals with her grandsons, treasuring every laugh, kiss and minute with them.

Those who know Karla, know that nothing ever slowed her down. She was always active, from bowling and racquetball (in her younger years), to Zumba and shopping. She loved playing cards with her card club and playing those slot machines! Karla was a master bargain-hunter and passed that on to anyone who had the stamina to shop with her. She was passionate about travelling and was up for any adventure - as long as it wouldn't get her hair wet!

Karla never met a stranger. She loved talking to people and helping them. She compassionately listened and gave advice, particularly when it came to raising children. Karla made friends wherever she went and she (and her hair) left a lasting impression. Nanna Karla leaves a legacy of valuing faith and family above all else, a true example of loving unconditionally. Her strength and compassion are an inspiration for us all.

Karla is survived by her husband of 45 years, Pete Simone; children, Joe Pete and daughter-in-law April, Jennifer, and Caroline; grandsons, Charlie, Pete and Rocco Mandacina and their father, C.J. Mandacina, Johnny and Joey Simone; sister, Barbara and husband Frank Winsky; sister-in-law, Anna Marie Inzenga; "sisters" Tish Mortallaro, Vicki Caldarello, Vita Ann Cascone, Kala DeSimone, and Baby Doll Sciortino (deceased); John Sciortino; and many loving nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Karla was preceded in death by her parents, Marian and Carl Northington; sister, Caroline Tyler and her son Steven; sister, Marlene and husband Sam Cessor; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joe and Jenny Simone; brother-in-law, Anthony Simone and wife Roseann; brother-in-law, Joe Inzenga; uncle Gilbert Brenner and wife Lucille; aunt Barbara and husband Allen Aston.

The Rosary will be prayed at 3 p.m. followed by Visitation from 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 8, at St. Therese Catholic Church, 7207 NW Hwy 9, Kansas City, MO 64152. The Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 9, at St. Therese Church, followed by entombment in Resurrection Mausoleum, Kansas City North.

Pallbearers: Anthony Inzenga, Carl Joe Cessor, Tom Sciortino, Joseph Mortallaro, Michael Accurso, Dr. John Cascone, Charlie Simone, Charlie Genova.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com.