BREAKING NEWS: Catherine “Kay” Waldvogel, beloved matriarch and community advocate, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, surrounded by family. She was 102 years old, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and dedication that touched countless lives.
Born on November 11, 1923, in Johnston City, IL, to George and Rosalie Fitz, Kay was the youngest of seven siblings. After graduating high school in 1941, she moved to Chicago, where she met and married the love of her life, Ken Waldvogel, on February 7, 1948. Their marriage lasted an incredible 72 years until Ken’s passing in 2020.
In 1951, Kay and Ken relocated to Santa Cruz, CA, where they established the Waldvogel Mushroom Farm. They were active members of their community, especially advocating for their daughter, Karen, who was born with Down syndrome. Kay’s unwavering support for Karen included over 65 years of care and advocacy, significantly impacting the lives of many families in the area.
Kay was heavily involved with the Santa Cruz County Association for the Retarded and the Special Olympics, showcasing her commitment to those with disabilities. She volunteered at Dominican Hospital for 45 years, dedicating over 9,000 hours to helping others. As a cherished member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church for over 60 years, Kay sang in the choir and was part of the “3 in 1 Ministry,” making thousands of rosaries for those in need.
In 2021, Kay moved to Woodland, CA, to be closer to her family, emphasizing her deep bond with them. She is survived by her children, Jeanne Locatelli, Ken Waldvogel Jr., and Karen Waldvogel, along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry forward her values of love and service.
A private family celebration of life was held on November 8, 2025, to honor what would have been her 102nd birthday. The family plans to inter Kay alongside Ken at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA, with the date to be determined in 2026.
Kay’s legacy continues through her charitable wishes, encouraging donations to her new parish, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and Canine Companions, ensuring her commitment to service lives on.
Her family and friends remember Kay not only for her extraordinary life but also for her profound impact on everyone she encountered. She will be dearly missed, a shining example of love and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates on memorial services and tributes honoring this remarkable woman.
