Kathryn Kochel Jelter

Kathryn Kochel Jelter
Aug. 27, 1918 - Oct. 14, 2013
Resident of Walnut Creek
Our dear Mom passed away peacefully, at home, with family by her side, exactly the way she wanted. She lived a long, wonderful life and leaves us with many great memories. Kathryn was born on the family homestead in Knowlton, Montana, to Chancey Rae and Bessie May Kochel, the third of five children. The family moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, when she was five. Mom met her husband Earl Jelter when he was at the University of Idaho. They married in 1940 and lived in Southern California during the war years, where Dad was an engineer at Lockheed and Mom worked at Kinner Motor. Dad joined Bechtel in San Francisco after the war and they settled down in Walnut Creek. With the exception of a couple of years in London, they remained here the rest of their lives, raising a family, enjoying a wide circle of friends, and keeping active in the community. Mom was a big believer in volunteer work and spent many years helping out in the Walnut Creek School District and later at the Seniors Center. She also joined neighbors to campaign for the creation of the Shell Ridge Open Space, a legacy that lives to this day. Mom was also an avid bowler, sailor and golfer, and spent many happy years globetrotting with Dad in retirement. She is survived by her brother Edward Kochel, son James (Toril), daughter Karen (Edward Jennings), grandkids Kirsten, James (Lindsey), Benjamin and Russell, and great-grandson Henry. A celebration of Kathryn's life will be held later. Call 925-947-1076 for details.