Kathryn Frances Plencner

It is with profound sadness and yet a deep sense of gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Kathryn Frances Plencner, who left this world peacefully on the morning of April 15, 2026. She was surrounded by love and tranquility, a testament to the grace with which she lived her 93 years. Kathryn was born on November 19, 1932, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Frank and Anne Adams, who instilled in her the values of faith, family, and resilience. Kathryn's journey began in Minneapolis and was deeply rooted in her Catholic upbringing. She pursued education with zeal, earning a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Minnesota. Her life took a contemplative turn when she briefly joined a convent, but family duty called her back to her father's side at his passing. Her compassion and dedication to family were to remain a hallmark of her character throughout her life. In 1956, Kathryn married the love of her life, Donald Nicholas Plencner, shortly after his return from the Korean War. Their marriage was a partnership of love and adventure, spanning 50 years until Donald's passing in 2006. Together, they traveled the world, living in places as diverse as Peru and California, and raising a family that became the center of Kathryn's universe. Kathryn's professional life was as nurturing as her personal one. For 30 years, she was the esteemed office nurse and manager to a renowned physician in Greenbrae, California. Her care and competence touched many lives in the community, and she was adored by colleagues and patients alike. Even after retirement, she continued to be a pillar of support and wisdom for her family and friends. Kathryn was a woman of letters and a lover of the outdoors, whose passions included poetry, writing, reading, and education. Her wit and humor remained sharp until her final days, much to the delight of everyone who had the privilege of her company. Her faith was an ever-present comfort, guiding her through life's challenges and joys. Kathryn's legacy is lovingly carried forward by her children: John Gregory Plencner of Billings, Montana; Kathleen Plencner Wylly and her husband Jamie of Newport, Rhode Island; Julie Mills of Illinois; Caroline Epperly and her partner Jeff Whitford of Sonoma, California; and Nicole Frances Helen Plencner and her children in Rossmoor-Walnut Creek, California. Her son Michael and his wife Athena reside in San Diego, California. She was a cherished grandmother to eleven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and who adored her in return. Predeceased by her beloved husband Donald N. Plencner and other dear relatives, including Gregory and Patricia Plencner, and Rosemary Olsen, Kathryn is also survived by extended family and dear friends who will miss her deeply. A blessing of the casket will be held at Santos Mortuary in San Leandro on April 24, 2026, by Father ____ of Brazil. A committal service will follow at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest with her husband on April 27, 2026. A Mass for Kathryn will be held at Saint Anne's Catholic Church in Walnut Creek, California, with details to follow. In celebration of Kathryn's remarkable life, a gathering of family, friends, and loved ones will be announced at a later date. Her family invites all who knew her to join in honoring her memory. For further information, please contact Nicky at 408-442-2325 or via email at nicoleplencner@gmail.com. Kathryn Frances Plencner will be remembered as a beacon of love, strength, and wisdom. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her, and she will be dearly missed but never forgotten.