Woodland

Kathryn Joyce Alves passed away on April 23, 2025 at the age of 87. She was born in Thomas, Oklahoma, on October 10, 1937, to Helmuth and Florence Kiehn, the fourth of 8 children. Kathryn's large, close-knit family moved to California in 1940, eventually settling in Woodland. She met the love of her life, Daniel Alves, in 1950, and they were married on June 24, 1956, and raised their family in Woodland. Kathryn's greatest joy was being with her family, and she always made sure that they felt loved and supported.

Kathryn was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Kathryn was the heart of the Alves family. She had a knack for remembering every birthday, anniversary, and important date in her children's and grandchildren's lives, never failing to send a card or make a call.

In preparation for Christmas, Kathryn spent months lovingly selecting gifts for every member of the family. Seated near the Christmas tree, she delighted in leading a countdown that resulted in flying gift wrap and squeals of excitement from her grandkids. Thanksgiving at Pis-mo Beach was a beloved family tradition. Every year, Kathryn commandeered a wing of the motel, orchestrated and cooked a Thanksgiving feast for a gathering of 50+ friends and family members.

Kathryn loved family gatherings, adventures with her siblings, and travel. Her friendly smile and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone made her a stranger to no one, resulting in many lifelong friendships.

Kathryn is survived by her husband of 68 years, Daniel; and children Mark (Sue), Steven (Vicki), Lori (Edward) Fulton, Deborah (Michael) McGinnis, and Lisa (Mike) Leacox, as well as 19 Grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings Evelyn Gastineau, Linda (Merle) Grant, Rinhardt (Jackie) Kiehn, and in-laws Herschel Taylor and Kathy Canevari. She was preceded in death by sisters Virginia McCalister, Frances White, Ruby Taylor, and brother Larry Kiehn.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14 at 2:00 p.m. at the Zamora Town Hall, 9810 Blacks St, Zamora CA 95698. Kathryn's passing leaves a void in our hearts, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire and serve as an example for us all.

In lieu of flowers consider a donation to Meals on Wheels Yolo County, P.O. Box 528, Woodland, CA 95776.