Kathryn L. Meddles

1937 - 2025

Kathryn L. Meddles, 87, of Lake Arrowhead, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025. Born November 22, 1937, in San Gabriel, California, Kathryn lived a life dedicated to family, faith, and community service.
Kathryn was preceded in death by her father, James F. Hamm; mother, Rita (Dods) Hamm; sisters, Margaret and Norma; and brother, Fred. She is survived by her loving husband, James E. Meddles; her three children, Lori (Tony) Gradillas, Wilbur (Maria) Meddles, and David (Debbie) Meddles; 13 grandchildren and their spouses; and 17 great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
As a grandmother, Kathryn created magical childhood memories that will be cherished forever. She delighted in taking her grandchildren on "treasure and beauty hunts" through the forest, turning ordinary walks into adventures of discovery. Family picnics at the "Johnny Appleseed" tree were special occasions, where she would help the children pick apples that would later become delicious homemade pies. Summers were filled with joy as she spent countless hours with her grandchildren swimming at the pools in Desert Hot Springs, creating refreshing escapes from the heat and memories that would last a lifetime. On rainy or snowy days, she transformed the house into a wonderland of blanket forts and imagination. Kathryn had a profound respect for all living creatures, often rescuing spiders from inside the house and gently relocating them to the outside deck. She even befriended a squirrel she lovingly named "Jack in the Box" who would visit her regularly. Her compassionate nature extended to feeding the community cats in the Iao Needle area of Hawaii during family vacations. Above all, her grandchildren remember how she always put them first, especially making sure their cookie jars and candy dishes were never empty-a simple yet profound gesture of her boundless love and care.
Throughout her life, Kathryn held various positions that allowed her to share her talents with others. She worked as a secretary for Western Electric, served as a cook for Mount Calvary Lutheran Camp, and was a dietary cook for Mountains Community Hospital. She also worked in sales at Country Furniture and the Lake Arrowhead Resort Gift Shop.
Kathryn's commitment to helping others extended beyond her professional life. She volunteered to deliver Meals on Wheels, often bringing her grandchildren along to instill in them the importance of community service. Her culinary skills were widely appreciated, as she catered numerous weddings and events for beloved members of the community.
A woman of deep faith, Kathryn was actively involved in community Bible studies at both Mount Calvary Lutheran and Lake Arrowhead Community Presbyterian churches.
Kathryn's infectious sense of humor lit up every room she entered, and her family fondly remembers how she could turn even ordinary moments into occasions of laughter and joy. Her witty remarks and playful spirit ensured that time spent with her was filled with smiles and laughter that will echo in their hearts forever.
Kathryn's warmth, generosity, and dedication to family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on through her large and loving family and the countless lives she touched.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, July 19th at 11am at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church.