Kathleen Louise Nold

Kathy was born November 26, 1945 in Chico, California.  She was the second child born to John and Doris (Whitmarsh) Church. Kathy’s father passed away suddenly at an early age, and Doris later married William Blakemore.  The new family had two more children, residing in Paradise and Redondo Beach, before settling in Carson, where they attended area elementary through high schools.

Kathy started high school at Banning in Wilmington, along with her older brother John. The new Carson High School development was finally completed in time for the Winter session 1963. Kathy was in her Junior year, and excited to be one of the first class of students at the new school (along with her future husband, Bob Nold). She flourished in her new community, happy to be with previous classmates and making new friends. Kathy’s poise and popularity resulted in her becoming their first Homecoming Queen in June of 1963.

In her teen years, Kathy developed a sophisticated style and loved fashion and hairstyle (on a budget). Luckily, she had a like-minded/sized aunt that would clean out her closet regularly. She loved to go out with friends and while she was very shy, she had a wonderful group of close girlfriends.  She was also known for her dance skill on skates, and was a regular at the local roller rink. Kathy loved animals and had a kind, magical way about her that charmed creatures big and small. She always wanted a horse, and took delight in horseback riding whenever possible.

Kathy married Bob Nold, her high school sweetheart, in August of 1965. They lived in Torrance and eventually settled in Long Beach. Once she completed Dental Hygienist school, she soon found a position with a local dentist. She loved her job and was often asked for by parents because she was wonderful with their children. Kathy worked in this position for a few years until they decided to start their own family and be a stay at home mom. Kathy and Bob had three sons, Eric, Shawn and Aron. Kathy was so happy to be home with the boys. She was an excellent cook, homemaker and mother. The family took many road trips, camping trips and the boys were all involved in multiple sports which meant that Kathy could be found at many practices and games. Kathy always went all out in decorating her home for every holiday. In later years, she took an art class and became an excellent painter. She loved Tole and ceramic style painting. She even learned (from Bob), how to cut her own wood patterns and successfully sold her pieces at craft fairs.

After her sons were grown, Kathy decided she wanted a part time job. She worked in various jobs until she decided to take a Bridal Consultant position at Broadway, which later became Macy's. Once she started working, she loved her independence, getting dressed up every day, and the job satisfaction. It wasn’t long before she became Lead Bridal Consultant. In this position she was also responsible for training and mentoring staff. Throughout her career at Macys, Kathy was lauded by managers and co-workers for her expertise and broad knowledge base. Her job was fun for her because it involved learning and working with China and fine crystal which became her passion. Throughout the years she received many bonus and incentive gifts for doing such a great job.

Kathy decided to retire so she could spend more time with Bob, her kids and grandchildren. Kathy was the epitome of a perfect Grandmother. She always attended every sporting event, birthday party and any school programs for each grandchild. The kids would have sleep overs at Kathy and Bob’s house on many occasions. Kathy would bake puzzles out of cookies, play croquet on her front lawn, serve tea, play all board games and continue to decorate her home for the holidays so the kids would be excited to come over. As the grandkids grew to be adults, they all still had their own unique relationship with Kathy. Her pride and joy were her sons and grandkids. Family meant everything to Kathy and she was the happiest when all her family was together.

Kathy was diagnosed with Parkinson Disease and also suffered from Spinal Stenosis, which is a very painful back condition. Medication made it so she could continue doing what she loved in moderation. With the help of Bob, Kathy continued to attend all family events and special occasions of all her grandchildren. In October of 2021, Kathy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Dementia. This brutal disease ravaged her body and left her bed ridden.  Through it all, Kathy continued to be the sweet, kind hearted person we all loved. Even when she was in a lot of pain, she still was concerned about all her family and would ask about everyone. Bob was by her side through it all.

On May 26 ^th , Kathy left this life in her sleep. While we are devastated by her death, we find one comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering physically and is so joyful and peaceful in her heavenly home. Kathy was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, mother-in-law, and friend. She is survived by her husband Bob, sons Eric (Christina), Shawn (Sonya) and Aron, grandchildren Andrew, Anthony, Ian, Kirstyn, Brittny, Alexander and Adam, great grandchild Jax, brother John (Kathy) and sister Teri.