Kathy Gado

1953 - 2012

Kathy Gado, 59, died on Nov. 30 at her home, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Ridgecrest, CA in 1953 and grew up in Los Altos. She graduated from Homestead High, received her AA from DeAnza College, BA from Stanislaus State, Teaching Credentials from Chico State, and law degree from UC Hastings in San Francisco

She dedicated her life, to help the less fortunate. She began her working career as a teacher's aide for special needs children, then taught elementary school in low income bilingual farming communities. After receiving her law degree she practised immegration law in San Francisco, until illness forced an end to her career.

She is survived by her father, Lou Gado of Los Altos, brothers Frank and Jimmy of Murphys, CA , her life partner, Dennis Funk of Columbia, CA, anld her aunt Pat Greene of Santa Cruz. She was predeceased by her mother, Barbara in 1996. She also leaves behind her beloved cockatiels.

She enjoyed gardening, kayaking, knitting and travel, having travelled to Italy, Belize Spain, Hawaii and Mexico. She was politically active and supported wildlife and conservation groups.

Donations in her memory can be made to Charlotte Maxwell Clinic, 610-16th St., Ste462 Oakland, CA 94512, wwwcharlottemaxwell.org.

A celebration of her life will be held Sunday January 13, 2PM at the Bay View Boat Club, San Francisco.