BREAKING: Catherine “Kay” Waldvogel, beloved mother and community advocate, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, surrounded by family. She was 102 years old, and her life was marked by love, dedication, and service to others.
Born on November 11, 1923, in Johnston City, IL, Kay was the youngest of seven children. After graduating from Johnston City High School in 1941, she moved to Chicago, where she began a lifelong journey of love and service. In 1948, she married Ken Waldvogel, marking the start of a 72-year partnership until his passing in 2020.
Kay and Ken moved to Santa Cruz, CA, in 1951, where they established the Waldvogel Mushroom Farm alongside Kay’s brother, George Fitz. The family expanded with the birth of their son, Ken Jr., in 1954. In 1960, they settled into a home in Soquel that Ken built, where they created a nurturing environment for over 60 years.
Throughout her life, Kay was a dedicated advocate for her youngest daughter, Karen, who was born with Down’s Syndrome in 1960. Kay devoted over 65 years to caring for Karen, championing her needs and participating actively in organizations such as the Santa Cruz County Association for the Retarded and Special Olympics.
Kay’s community involvement extended far beyond her family. She volunteered at Dominican Hospital for 45 years, accumulating over 9,000 hours of service. A devoted member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church for over 60 years, she sang in the choir and contributed through the “3 in 1 Ministry,” crafting nearly 1,000 rosaries each year for over 12 years.
Kay’s legacy continues through her surviving children: Jeanne Locatelli (Mike), Ken Waldvogel Jr. (Rachael), and Karen Waldvogel, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren who cherish her memory. A private family Celebration of Life was held on November 8, 2025, to honor what would have been her 102nd birthday.
Kay’s final wishes include donations to her new parish, Holy Rosary Catholic Church-New Church Fund, and Canine Companions. She will be laid to rest with Ken at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA, with a date to be determined in 2026.
Kay Waldvogel’s extraordinary life exemplified love, compassion, and service, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her family and community will deeply miss her presence as they reflect on her 102 years of a life well lived.
