Katherine Elizabeth Von Almen

With family members near, Kathy Elizabeth Alvarez Von Almen died peacefully at Renown Medical Center in Reno, NV on Tuesday, May 8, 2012. Kathy was born and raised in Santa Cruz, CA, the youngest of five children brought into this world by John S. and Lydia Bogner. She attended Holy Cross Elementary School and graduated from Marello Prep High School in 1973. On June 25, 1977 she married Paul Alvarez. The newly wedded couple then moved to Hollister, CA where they went into business for themselves and started a family. Through the years, Kathy worked closely with the family businesses, but the role in life she cherished the most was raising her four beautiful children. Looking for just the right place to raise their family, they saw and opportunity and took a chance relocating their still young family to Quincy, CA, where they purchased and operated what quickly became a very successful pizza restaurant. "Kata"- a nickname affectionately given to her by sister Jeannie-enjoyed all life offered, especially country music and flowers. But her biggest joy in life was raising and spending time with her kids. She was a busy mom following her four very busy children through their school extracurricular activities. She eagerly participated in their youth soccer, little league, basketball, football and 4-H programs. She also adored what little spare time she could find with Dillon, her chocolate lab. Friends and family for finding the time to stop, visit and share a wonderful smile will always remember Kathy. She is survived by her current husband John Von Almen of Quincy; sons Paul Alvarez of Missoula, MT; Bill Alvarez and his wife Ally of Grass Valley, CA; Michael Alvarez of Chico, CA and daughter, Beth Alvarez of San Diego, CA. Step-children, Amanda Von Almen of Edinburough, Scotland and Kyle Von Almen of Quincy. She also leaves behind her mother, Lydia Bogner and her four siblings; Judy and her husband Gus Allegri; Steve and his wife Diana Bogner; Phil and his wife Kathy Bogner and Jeannie Pearce Edsal and Jody Edsal. Her father John preceded her in death. Services will be held Monday, May 14, 2012 at 12:00 noon at San Agustin Catholic Church, 257 Glenwood Dr., Scotts Valley, CA 95066. Contributions in her memory may be made to a youth program of your choice.