Santa Mary Galate, age 77, of Gladstone, Missouri, passed away April 24, 2023 at home from natural causes.

Santa was born August 17, 1945 to Salvatore "Sam" and Kelly Pittala in Kansas City, Missouri. Growing up in the close-knit Italian community of Kansas City's North End, she developed the love and loyalty to family and friends that became the hallmark of her life. There, she met Vincent Galate, and began a romance that endured for the rest of her days. The two were married in 1966.

A devoted wife and mother, she put all of herself into everything she did. Quick-witted and hard-working, she earned her cosmetology license and set about building a happy, healthy home. Later, she embarked upon a successful, 30-year career managing her brother's pediatrics office. Never, though, did her work overshadow the things that she held most dear - her family and her faith. She raised her children to carry themselves with pride and become capable, respectful adults. She began every day by praying the rosary. In difficult times, she'd turn to the Lord, saying "It's in God's hands".

Foremost among her talents was an aptitude, and love, for cooking. Her Italian biscotti cookies were a treasured staple at every wedding. To her, no tradition was more sacred than Sunday dinner with family and friends. Her table, like her heart, was open and welcoming to all. There was always room to squeeze in one more chair.

Her gentle nature was contrasted by a fierce determination and fighting spirit. She was a two-time cancer survivor and "guardian angel" inspiration to fellow patients fighting the same battle. In later years, she managed this while simultaneously providing round-the-clock care for her husband through his own health concerns.

Possessed of a kind soul, a compassionate heart and an indomitable spirit, Santa was beloved by all who were privileged to meet her. Quick to laugh, her joyous light illuminated everyone around her, enabling all of us to shine a bit brighter. She never had an unkind word for anyone. She practiced what she preached, and lived a life of integrity. We know no higher praise.

Santa cherished every moment of her life as a daughter, wife, mother and nani. We're so fortunate for the years we've had with such an extraordinary woman. Her legacy will endure through generations of children yet to come.

She was preceded in death by parents Salvatore "Sam" and Kelly Pittala; brothers Carl Pittala, Frank Pittala and baby Pittala; brother-in-law Nathan Galate; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary and Frank Battaglia.

She is survived by husband Vincent Galate; son Dr. Joseph (Christine) Galate; daughter Natalie (Bill) Critelli; and daughter Christina (Steve) Ainsworth; granddaughters Samantha Pittala, Antoinette Pittala and Emma Critelli; grandsons Joseph (Jessica) Pittala, Vincent Galate, Jimmy Critelli, Carson Doxsee, Jake Galate, Alex Toney, Andrew Ainsworth and Sam Toney; great-granddaughters Addison Smith, Haven Smith and Gianna Pittala; sister and best friend Josephine (Mike) Humar; brother Dr. Leonard (Katie) Pittala; sisters-in-law Evelyn Galate and Kitty Pittala; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m. followed by Visitation 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 27, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home. Family and Friends will gather on Friday, April 28, at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, where the Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m. [ LIVE STREAM ] Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Joe Pittala, Vincent Galate, Carson Doxsee, Jake Galate, Alex Toney, Andrew Ainsworth, Sam Toney and Cole Anderson.

Honorary Pallbearers: Anthony Pittala, Sam Pittala, Lenny Pittala, Tommy Pittala and John Conforti.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com