Resident of Santa Cruz
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Kathy Miles, on November 22nd, at approximately 5:00 PM, eleven months after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, partner, and close friends, who sang to her as she transitioned to the next phase of her journey.
Kathy was born on April 24, 1946, in the old Dominican Hospital on Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California, to her parents, John and Marie Weldon. She grew up in a home on East Cliff Drive, later moving with her family to the house her parents designed and built on 16th Avenue in Santa Cruz. Kathy attended Live Oak and Del Mar Elementary Schools, Santa Cruz High School, and Soquel High School, where she was part of the second graduating class. After high school, Kathy went on to Cabrillo College and then San Jose State University, where she earned her teaching credential.
Kathy dedicated her career to education, teaching at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School District in San Jose. She married Bill Pitman and raised her two beloved daughters, Michele Goetowski and Denise Pitman-Rosas, who were the center of her world. After her marriage to Bill ended, Kathy later found her soulmate in Perry Miles. Their 18 years together were filled with love and joy. Following Perry’s passing, Kathy enjoyed a supportive nine-year relationship with Russell Farkouh.
Kathy’s love for her family grew as Michele and Denise married and brought wonderful sons-in-law into her life: Ryan Goetowski and Angel Rosas. She was overjoyed to welcome her beloved grandchildren, Alex and Sofia Rosas and Collin and Lindsey Goetowski, into her heart.
After living in San Jose for 30 years, Kathy returned to her hometown of Santa Cruz to retire. She became deeply involved with Inner Light Ministries, where she sang in the choir and later became a practitioner. Kathy found immense joy in walking along the beach, spending time with her family, and engaging in the many activities that Santa Cruz had to offer. It was aplace that nurtured her spirit, and she was happy there, living a life full of growth and fulfillment through giving, and receiving.
Kathy’s legacy is one of love, strength, and grace. She had a kind and nurturing spirit, and she touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Her love for her family and her community will be remembered and cherished forever.
A memorial service to celebrate Kathy's life will be held on January 18th at Temple Beth El in Aptos, with the service beginning at 10:00 am, with a reception immediately following. All are welcome to join us in honoring her memory. Per Kathy’s request, we welcome you to wear warm, vibrant colors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Inner Light Ministries, an organization that was dear to Kathy’s heart.