Kathleen Mary LaPlaca, of Weeki Wachee, FL, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in West Milford, NJ, surrounded by the comfort and love of her family.

Born to the late John and Sophie Kelty, Kathleen was raised in Passaic, NJ, where she attended St. John Kanty School and Church and graduated from Passaic High School. Dedicated to education and lifelong learning, Kathleen earned her nursing license from Passaic Community College, her Bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University, and her Master’s degree from Seton Hall University.

Kathleen devoted 48 years of her life to the nursing profession, specializing in oncology care. She began her remarkable career at Passaic General Hospital and, through her compassion, leadership, and commitment to excellence, advanced into various management positions at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, and UCLA Medical Center. Kathleen was also a proud member of the Oncology Nursing Society, the American Cancer Society, and many other professional organizations throughout her distinguished career.

Even after retiring, Kathleen quickly realized she missed the work and relationships that nursing brought into her life. Never one to stay idle for long, she returned to the field she loved at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, where she formed many dear friendships and continued caring for patients with the same compassion and dedication that defined her entire career.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kathleen embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. She had a deep love for travel and enjoyed exploring cities throughout the United States. She cherished time spent at the Jersey Shore and found joy in the outdoors through RV camping, boating, and fishing. Kathleen also took great pride in her trophy-winning 1961 Corvette, which reflected her spirited personality and love for adventure.

Kathleen was the beloved wife of Nicholas LaPlaca; devoted mother of Kenneth LaPlaca and his wife, Beth, of West Milford, NJ; and cherished grandmother of Jenaya. She is also survived by her loving sister, Patricia Paladino; niece, Shannon and Carl Tulli; and nephew, Keith Paladino.

Kathleen will be remembered for her compassion, strength, dedication to caring for others, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched throughout her extraordinary career and personal life.

Visiting Friday, 4 - 8 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Saturday, 9:45 AM at the funeral home and 11 AM at St. John Kanty RC Church, Clifton. Cremation will be private.