Carmela M. Kidwell

Carmela M. Kidwell, 85, of Indianapolis, passed away on March 20, 2021 at St. Francis Hospital surrounded by her family. Carmela was born on January 24, 1936 in Indianapolis to the late Paul and, Frances (Velona) Palamara. On September 17, 1960 in Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Carmela wed the late Jerry A. Kidwell.

Carmela attended Holy Rosary grade school and graduated high school from St. Mary’s Academy. Upon graduating she worked for Indiana Bell in the accounting department until she had her son, John in 1964.

Never missing a Holy day, Carmela was a devout Catholic. She was an active member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church. A loving and caring woman, Carmela stayed active in the parish by cooking spaghetti dinners and coordinating the parish festivals. In her spare time, Carmela enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Cubs, staying active in numerous bowling leagues, and playing euchre with friends.

Along with her parents and husband of 42 years, Carmela was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Rosemary (Palamara) Peoni.

Survivors include her son, John J. Kidwell and daughter-in-law, Sarah Kidwell; special life-long friends, Anna Marie Below and Florence Byland; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Family and friends will gather for the visitation on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM in the O’Riley Funeral Home, 6107 South East Street, Indianapolis. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 25, 2021 beginning at 12:00 PM in Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 2905 Carson Avenue, Indianapolis. Prior to the celebration of Mass, morning prayers will be said at the funeral home on Thursday beginning at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen, The American Heart Association, or Good Shepherd Catholic Church; envelopes will be provided at the funeral home. Please visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to leave an online condolence with the Kidwell family.