Kathleen Dughi Obituary

Kathleen Dughi In loving memory of Kathleen Dughi, who will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Devoted mother to Oliver Erteman; loyal daughter to Jim and Mary Dughi; loving sister to Tim Dughi, and generous friend and inspiration to so many. All who knew Kathleen were fortunate to bask in her love, humor, and grace. Her courage and tenacity in the face of breast cancer will continue to be as much of an inspiration as her gorgeous jewelry designs. Founder of Kathleen Dughi Jeweler in Mill Valley, Kathleen was inarguably one of the most talented jewelry designers in the country. Her unmistakably original designs are often compared to Cartier for their craftsmanship and complexity. They range from classic estate quality, to ultra-contemporary whimsical and inspirational creations, to sophisticated works of art. During her 30 years of design experience, Kathleen won several awards, including the Spectrum Award and two Honorable Mentions from the DeBeers Diamonds International Competition, one of the most recognized in the world for design, quality workmanship, originality, and fine materials. After six years as head designer for Shreve & Co., where she was recognized for her superior talent creating one-of-a-kind heirloom pieces for Shreve's exclusive clientele, Kathleen opened her own elegant shop and adjoining work studio in 1993 in Mill Valley, California. Her inviting atelier is filled with an exquisite collection of custom-made jewelry, including important rings and bold earrings with fine diamonds and gemstones in every color imaginable. In Kathleen's words, "I design for the woman with a strong sense of individual style-the woman who has refined taste and seeks out jewelry that reflects that." A true artist, Kathleen worked until the very last day of her life creating her unique custom designs. Her legacy is assured with many of her signature designs that have not yet been executed. Her jewelry will continue to be available at her Mill Valley store as well as Wilkes Bashford's San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Carmel stores. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, 5005 LBJ Fwy., Ste. 250, Dallas, TX 75244, or The International Rescue Committee, P.O. Box 98152, Washington D.C. 20090-8152.

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

Published by San Francisco Chronicle on May 23, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathleen Dughi

11 Entries

Linda Carlton

June 3, 2007

Dear Oliver,

I met your Mom in 2006, when she joined our WPO group. I remember her as being very vibrant and passionate about her life, her work and her son. We are all very saddened by her passing, and will miss her presence in our lives. You had a wonderful mom who will live on in your heart and in the beauty she brought to our world.

Love, Linda

Suzanne Duffy

May 29, 2007

Dear Kathleen,

Though so much time has passed since you and I spent everyday together for 2 years, I remember it so vividly. You were my strength, my mentor, my friend, my big sister, and at times my mother. I thank you for accepting me as your first apprentice; I spent great time and energy persuading you to do so~but in the end it payed off for the both of us. It was a wonderful, yet most challenging two years, now around 12 years ago.

You made living in San Francisco a more than memorable experience, I thank you. You showed me dedication and patience to a craft which was your talent and gift from God and Orlando. I know no one who loved to work so perfectly with her hands than you. What truly beautiful works of wearable art you have created. You have brought much joy to so many in doing so. Your work is your living legacy.

Not to forget your son, Oliver. I hope someday to see him again and tell him a story of when he was a little boy of about 4. I was your nanny when Kathleen was in need. I loved the time we spent together Oliver. May God bless you and always protect you. You were your Mother's complete joy.

Sending my sadness and love,
Suzanne (Price) Duffy
Annapolis, Maryland

June Coldren

May 28, 2007

I am the lucky recipient of one of Kathleen's last pieces. My husband and I had Kathleen design our wedding rings for our wedding on May 19th. In the short time that I knew and worked with her, I have been so touched by her tremendous spirit and courage. I know she is missed but I feel so lucky to have a piece of her with me forever.

Virginia Crabb

May 27, 2007

My memory of Kathleen is of a beautiful, artistic women who shared her Campus room in the early Seventies with my Daughter, Mary Elizabeth Young, at Humboldt State College in Eureka, Califoria. Kathleen was the Maid of honor at my daughter's wedding and they were great friends.
I will never forget the wonderful times we all shared together at these important times of our lifes.
Many blessing and condolences are sent to her son and family from our family.

Lovingly,

Virginia Crabb

Audrey + Shelley Tommassini + Mitchell

May 27, 2007

It is so unimaginable that something like this would happen to a person with such grace and beauty as Kathleen. We wish for peace and strength for her family and son, Oliver. For those of us who knew Kathleen, let us remember the kindness, compassion, and the beauty she walked with every day in our hearts forever.

May 27, 2007

Dear Oliver,
Your mom designed our exquisite wedding rings and Michael's engagement pin. Luckily my husband, Michael, gifted me with several pieces of Kathleen's art. When we came to see your mom and buy a gift for me I would get to try on many pieces. I felt like a queen.
Michael would tell us that "being in Kathleen's shop what the only time he wished he were a woman".
Michael died this year and my ring and other jewelry are daily remembrances of 2 extraordinary people who touched me deeply.

Sending much love Oliver,
Juli Betwee

Ann Jewett

May 26, 2007

Kathleen was inspirational with her courage and grace. Her beautiful jewelry designs mirror her legacy of strength and style. Sincere condolences to her family...she'll be greatly missed.

jane groner

May 24, 2007

I was so shocked to read of Kathleen's death. I only met her twice but had no idea that she was ill. She had created some of the most beautiful jewelry I had seen. It is a great loss for someone so talented and beautiful.

gretchen dewitt

May 24, 2007

Kathleen was a radiant person. She radiated joy, health, humour, love and a deep passion for life. She was a devoted mother and a gifted jeweler. Her battle to live and her enormous courage in terrible pain will be an inspiration to my all of my life.

Robin McNally

May 23, 2007

So sorry to hear of Kathleen's passing....she was a lovely and talented woman....she will be greatly missed.

Mike and Hansine Goran

May 23, 2007

Thank you Kathleen for gracing life with the beauty of your spirit, your child and your creations. You left this world a much more beautiful place. We send you our love and admiration.

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results