Search by Name

Search by Name

Margaret Tranchina Obituary



Margaret Kay Lynch Butler Tranchina

Resident of Santa Cruz

Maggie gracefully passed on 16 September. Survived by husband Joe Tranchina, daughters Katherine Claire Butler Prokop, Cynthia Kay Butler, granddaughter Rhiannon Alexis Butler Prokop,, sister Janice Clydette (Lynch) White, brother Charles Lynch, stepdaughter Julia Tranchina, & dozens of nieces, nephews & cousins.. Preceded in death by son William Charles "Bill" Butler, sister Sandra Gay Lynch, & parents Charles Clyde Lynch & Opal Lee (Brooks) Lynch.

Margaret Kay was born in TN, & grew up in Lafayette, IN. She graduated from "Jeff High" & attended Purdue, where she met her first husband. They lived in NY and moved to San Jose in '65. Kay was active in her children's schools & First United Methodist of Campbell. She completed the paralegal program at Santa Clara. Living in Santa Cruz, she met Joe in '85. They traveled all over the world. Her career included Markham Jr.High, Gibson Dunn, & Seagate. She truly enjoyed volunteering at WomanCARE (Cancer Advocacy Resources Education.) "Mighty Monday Maggie" touched the hearts of many at WomenCARE, she is greatly missed.

MKay was a woman of intelligence, courage & fashion. An amazing cook, Maggie & Joe hosted many festivities.She loved having flowers around, and delighted in Joe's garden. Maggie played bridge & poker, savored the perfect gin martini, & competed fiercely with her personalized dice cup.

A Celebration of Maggie's Life will be at the Tranchina residence, 1pm Saturday, 2 October. In lieu of flowers a donation to WomenCARE in Maggie's name is appreciated. 831-457-2273 http://www.womencaresantacruz.org

Maggie will always be remembered with her twinkling eyes, her irish laugh, for the genuine interest she expressed to everyone she met, and for the deep unconditional love she gave to her family. Visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to sign an online guestbook.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Sep. 26, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Tranchina

Not sure what to say?





4 Entries

Jeff Rockwell

October 2, 2010

I had the honor of working with Maggie during the short time she worked at UCSC. What a great woman. Though she was only there as a temp. and for a short period, her presence was memorable and indelible. In the time that I got to know her, two things about her became obvious: she loved life and she loved her family. I'll mourn her passing, but I'll celebrate her life and the way she lived it.

Beth Hornbeck

September 26, 2010

My love and prayers for the entire family. She had an amazing gift for making people feel loved and welcomed, her grace and spunk lives on in her girls!

Linda Orlomoski

September 26, 2010

I had the pleasure of meeting Maggie when visiting with Katherine in Santa Cruz and even though it was only a brief meeting, I could tell that she was someone special and well-loved. I have no doubt that the angels have welcomed another angel home and that her Irish eyes are now smiling down at her family from above.

Donna Ice

September 26, 2010

Katherine, I'm so sorry for your family's loss. Rejoice that your mama is suffering no longer and is enjoying everlasting life in the arms of God. Peace to you my friend.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Make a Donation
in Margaret Tranchina's name

Memorial Events
for Margaret Tranchina

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Margaret's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Margaret Tranchina's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more