BREAKING: Catherine “Kay” Waldvogel, a beloved matriarch and community pillar, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, just weeks before her 102nd birthday. Surrounded by family, Kay’s departure marks the end of an era defined by love, advocacy, and unwavering support for her family and community.
Born on November 11, 1923, in Johnston City, IL, to George and Rosalie Fitz, Kay was the youngest of seven siblings. After graduating from Johnston City High School in 1941, she moved to Chicago, where she worked alongside her sister Mary until 1948. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ken Waldvogel, and they married on February 7, 1948.
The couple relocated to Santa Cruz in 1951, where they operated the Waldvogel Mushroom Farm with Kay’s older brother, George Fitz. In 1954, they welcomed their son, Ken Jr., and later moved to a house Ken built in Soquel, where they lived for over six decades.
Kay’s life was devoted to her family, especially her youngest daughter, Karen, born with Down’s Syndrome in 1960. Together, Kay and Ken advocated tirelessly for Karen, contributing over 65 years of loving care. They were key figures in the Santa Cruz County Association for the Retarded and Special Olympics, making significant impacts in the community.
A dedicated volunteer, Kay served at Dominican Hospital for 45 years, contributing over 9,000 hours of service. She was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church for over 60 years, participating in the choir and the “3 in 1 Ministry,” where she crafted nearly 1,000 rosaries each year for over a decade.
Kay’s family reflects her rich legacy. She is survived by her children Jeanne Locatelli (Mike), Ken Waldvogel Jr. (Rachael), and Karen Waldvogel, along with grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Her husband, Ken, passed away in 2020, and she is also preceded in death by several siblings and her daughter-in-law Kathleen.
A private family celebration of life occurred on November 8, 2025, strategically planned to commemorate what would have been her 102nd birthday. Family and friends honored her remarkable journey and the profound impact she had on all who knew her.
Kay will be laid to rest alongside Ken at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA, with a date to be determined in 2026. In honor of her wishes, donations can be made to the Holy Rosary Catholic Church-New Church Fund or Canine Companions in memory of Kay Waldvogel.
Kay Waldvogel’s life serves as a testament to love, resilience, and community spirit, and she will be dearly missed by all. Her legacy of caring and advocacy continues to inspire those she leaves behind.
