BREAKING NEWS: Catherine “Kay” Waldvogel, beloved matriarch and advocate, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, surrounded by family. She lived a remarkable life, celebrating 102 years and leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion that will resonate with all who knew her.
Born on November 11, 1923, in Johnston City, Illinois, Kay was the youngest of seven children. After graduating from Johnston City High School in 1941, she moved to Chicago, where she began working alongside her sister Mary. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ken Waldvogel, and they married on February 7, 1948.
In 1951, Kay and Ken relocated to Santa Cruz, California, where they established the Waldvogel Mushroom Farm with Kay’s brother, George Fitz. The couple welcomed their son, Ken Jr., in 1954. They spent over 60 years in the home Ken built in Soquel, creating a nurturing environment for their family.
Kay was a dedicated mother and caregiver, particularly for her youngest daughter, Karen, who was born with Down’s Syndrome. For over 65 years, Kay devoted her life to advocating for Karen. She and Ken were active participants in the Santa Cruz County Association for the Retarded and the Special Olympics.
Beyond her family, Kay volunteered for 45 years at Dominican Hospital, contributing over 9,000 hours of service. As a longtime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, she sang in the choir and dedicated herself to the “3 in 1 Ministry,” crafting nearly 1,000 rosaries annually for over a decade.
Kay and Ken enjoyed traveling with friends, with the Panama Canal cruise being a family favorite. Together, they shared a profound love that lasted until Ken’s passing in 2020.
She is survived by her children: Jeanne Locatelli (Mike), Ken Waldvogel Jr. (Rachael), and Karen Waldvogel. Her legacy also includes four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who will remember her warmth and kindness.
A private family Celebration of Life was held on November 8, honoring Kay’s 102nd birthday. The family expressed their gratitude for the life she lived, stating,
“She set an example for all who knew and loved her, and she will be dearly missed.”
Kay will be laid to rest alongside Ken at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California, with the date yet to be determined in 2026. In lieu of flowers, her family encourages donations to her new parish, Holy Rosary Catholic Church-New Church Fund, or Canine Companions in her memory.
This heartfelt tribute serves as a reminder of Kay Waldvogel’s enduring impact on her family and community, highlighting a life filled with love, service, and advocacy.
