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Kim Mel Obituary
May 28, 1948 - August 16, 2021
52 Year Resident of Santa Cruz
Kimberly S. Mel passed away peacefully at her home in the evening of August 16 after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband John; her son Peter; and her grandson John, along with many loving siblings, nieces and nephews. Kim was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Jean Sartorius; her sister Leigh; and her infant brother Steve.
Kim was born on May 28, 1948 in New Jersey and moved with her family to California in the early 60's. She graduated from Chadwick School in Rolling Hills in 1965 and went on to attend USC for one year before marrying John in 1968.The couple moved to Oahu, Hawaii then to Santa Cruz where Kim has resided ever since.
After Peter was born, she attended Cabrillo College and later graduated from UCSC. Kim then decided to pursue a career law and attended Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Successfully passing the bar, she worked for several years in the District Attorney' Office specializing in child support enforcement.
Kim transferred to child support services and continued her working there until retiring in 2008. During her career, she served as president of the California Family Support Council and worked with district attorneys, private attorneys, and legislators to educate them on the benefits of the program. She actively participated in writing many new laws to benefit children and was honored in 1998 with a lifetime achievement award for her work at the state and county level.
Throughout this time, Kim was also an integral part of the family business- Freeline Design Surfboards, which first opened in 1969. The shop is still going today under the guidance of Peter and his wife Tara. Kim was an active member of the surf community and volunteered her time helping many organizations including Santa Cruz Longboard Union, the Pleasure Point Night Fighters, and the Santa Cruz Surfing Preservation Society.
Kim's passion for travel led her to see many parts of the world via cruises and treks to Mexico, New Zealand, and Australia. A private celebration of Kim's life will be held at a later date. An act of charity in Kim's memory can be made to Hopsice of Santa Cruz County.
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Memories and Condolences
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Sponsored by santacruzsentinel.com.
6 Entries
Wayne Fazzino
October 10, 2021
What a nice woman, boss, and joy to work with. She touched the lives of those who had the pleasure to serve under her leadership. The Mel family are in our prayers.
Sue Figliomeni
October 8, 2021
I am very much saddened to hear of Kim´s passing. We worked together for most of my years at the County. She was a great boss and was always supportive. I particularly remember her support during the 2008 Summit Fire where my home was thankfully saved. I extend my deepest sympathy to her family. I feel honored to have known Kim and had her in my life.
Deb Peterson
October 5, 2021
Aloha Mel family, you have our deepest sympathy at the passing of Kim. She was a strong, beautiful, person full of life and laughter. She will be truly missed. John and Kim were life partners and best friends, as were Tom and I and married 50+ years. I lost Tom 5 years ago and John and Kim were there for us. I am here for you Mel family. Love to you all and missing you.
madeleine boriss mcclellan
October 5, 2021
I knew Kim well, as we worked together for many years - I spoke at her retirement luncheon with great affection. She was a lovely and gracious person. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and your family!
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Larry "Bones" Dunham
October 3, 2021
So sorry to hear! Nice lady! RIP & Aloha from Bones..
Bob Noonan
October 3, 2021
I am sorry to hear the news....she began at the Santa Cruz DA's office as a volunteer. I was the filing deputy at the time and a mentored her in giving her tasks for files that needed attention. She was a great person to work with and all through her career treated everyone with respect. Kim didn't need a lot of instruction--just was intuitive about what was needed. This volunteer work made her a great candidate for an attorney job opening. I got to know John from purchasing surf gear for my own kids. Great family, great mom and great attorney for the Santa Cruz DAO.
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Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel - Santa Cruz1050 Cayuga St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
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