Christine Catherine Molinelli

Christine Catherine Molinelli, born in San Francisco on June 19, 1942, passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family and caretakers, on December 9, 2021, at the age of 79. Born in San Francisco to parents Eftihia Cleo Pappas and James Thomas Ahern, Chris graduated from Balboa High School in 1959. On January 25, 1963, Chris married Paul Molinelli Sr. at All Hallows Church in San Francisco. Upon leaving the Bay Area, Paul and Chris moved to Amador County and founded 88 Disposal Services (now ACES Waste Services) in 1975. Chris was a devoted mother to her three children, many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Though many of her proudest moments involved those spent with her family, Chris was also an animal lover. She devoted her time to rescuing, caring for, and feeding animals all over town, and was the founder of A-PAL Humane Society, along with Olive Howe, Bernice Jourdain, and Robin Ross. Chris was an active member of the Amador County community. She worked as an instructional aide for special needs students at Jackson Junior High for over 20 years. Chris, along with Paul, also owned and operated Zio’s Italian Delicatessen on Highway 88 in Jackson for several years. Additionally, Chris was active in the Sierra Service League, Sutter Amador Hospital Foundation, and also performed in the Volcano Theater Company. She won a best actor award in 1980. Chris truly enjoyed spending time with people. She never met a person she did not want to talk with. She had a famously quick wit, an engaging personality, and a sense of humor that lasted until her final days. She was an incredible and generous woman. She will be truly missed and never forgotten. Chris was preceded in death by her parents and a maternal first cousin, Ron Limneos (Linda). She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Paul Molinelli, Sr. of Jackson; son, Paul Molinelli Jr. (Chris) of Jackson, son Jasun Molinelli of Walnut Creek, and daughter Sasha Molinelli Goldstein (Amir) of Los Angeles. In addition, she is survived by her grandchildren Zachary, Dillon, Dominic, William, Boston, Colton, Avery, and Ella. Great-grandchildren Eliza, Quinton, and Ari. Chris is also survived by her sister Karen McGraw (Steve) of Tigard, OR; her maternal first cousins Linda Cosentino (Steve) of Roseville; and John Limneos (Priscilla) of Fairfield. She is also survived by her beloved pets Bertie Ahern and Bobbie Cat. The Molinelli family is incredibly blessed to have been surrounded by such compassionate and caring friends, health care providers, and caretakers. The family wishes to thank Hospice of Amador and Calaveras Counties, Sutter Amador Hospital, Jackson Fire Department and American Legion Ambulance. Chris’ family is most grateful to all who sent flowers, food, called, and visited Chris while she was ill. A Celebration of Life will be held after the holidays. Contributions can be made in the name of Christine Molinelli to A-PAL Human Society, 12360 Trade Center Drive, Jackson, CA 95642, and to Hospice of Amador & Calaveras Counties, 1500 S. Hwy 49, Suite 205, Jackson, CA 95642.