Kathryn Nunez

Kathryn "Kathy" Nunez, 84, Salinas, passed away peacefully July 1, 2023, after a lengthy illness. Born in Salinas, Calif., Kathy was a fifth-generation Salinas resident and grew up on her family's farm. She attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, Palma High School, and graduated from San Jose State University.

She loved children and was a second-grade teacher at La Gloria elementary school in Gonzales, retiring after 40 years. "Miss Nunez" absolutely loved running into her students over the years and was so proud to hear about their families and accomplishments. Her spirit will live on forever in the hearts and minds of the many beloved students she taught.

Kathy loved sports and was an avid 49ers and Warriors fan. She loved spending time with her family and attending her nieces' and nephews' sporting events, where she was always the person cheering the loudest. She also loved motorsports, horse races and game shows, often betting on games with her family, but thankfully, never collecting her winnings. She was known for making holidays extra special for all around her and, much to the delight of her nieces, was an avid shopper who could happily spend all day at the mall.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Anna Nunez; sister, Rosemary; and brothers, Roger and Philip. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Karen Nunez; brother-in-law, Jack Massera; nieces, Karla Massera and Cheri (Gary) Escobar; nephews, Jon (Shannan) Nunez, and Paul (Tami) Massera; great nephew, Mitchell Massera; great nieces, Amanda and Claire Massera, Rena and Rose Escobar, Ashley and Lauren Nunez; as well as numerous cousins and long-time friends.

Kathy and her family are grateful for the compassionate care she received from her wonderful healthcare team - Dr. Leslie Foote, Dr. Michael Dicus, Dr. Kelsey Gray, VNA nurse Mary Bourne, and her caregivers Daisy, Lupita, Marylou and Reyna.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 18, 2023, from 3-6:00 p.m. at the Struve and Laporte Chapel on 41 W. San Luis Street in Salinas. Rosary will immediately follow. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church on 15 Railroad Avenue in Spreckles. Burial will take place at Garden of Memories on 850 Abbott Street in Salinas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity that means the most to you. As Kathy loved bright colors and sports, we encourage you to wear your favorite colors or your favorite team's gear to her services.

Published in Salinas Valley Tribune · July 10, 2023