Clara Mae Mastrippolito died on Oct. 20 at her home. She was 85.
Mastrippolito was born Dec. 5, 1924 to Herbert and Marjorie West. Known as Noni to all who knew her and as “Italian Grandmother,” Mastrippolito dedicated her life to service. This included helping raise her grandchildren, service to her country during World War II and service for organizations such as Alanon, to which she devoted her time, love and talents.
During World War II, Mastrippolito worked in the aircraft industry as an original “Rosie the Rivoter.” It was a source of great pride and patriotism for her. She excelled as a business owner, real estate investor and entrepreneur.
Her knowledge and interest in business spilled over into many fields, including dealings with NASA and the US Geological Survey. Mastrippolito dropped out of school at age 12 to take care of her siblings, then returned at age 50 and earned her high school diploma.
Ironically, the woman known as “Italian Grandmother” was not Italian by birth, but adopted the cultural traditions of her husband’s family. She raised her children and grandchildren within a large and devoted extended family.
Mastrippolito is survived by her sons Domenic and Peter Mastrippolito; brothers Ray and Bob West; sisters Pauline Ruddock, Mary Ledermann, and Darlene and Jean West; 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and numerous extended family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Domenic N. Mastrippolito Sr.,mother-in-law Lucia Mastrippolito, and daughter Sherry Satriano.
A Memorial Mass will take place at 2 p.m. on Nov. 12 at Our Lady of Malibu Catholic Church, located at 3625 Winter Canyon Road. Those wishing to make donations in Mastrippolito’s name should send them to the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund at www.cfsrf.org or California State Firefighters’ Association at www.csfa.net.