It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kathleen Ann Bandanza, 93, of San Jose, California. She passed away on June 30, 2025. The youngest of nine, she was born on April 26, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, to loving parents Josephine Rinchiuso and Charles Tumminello.
In 1950, Kathleen married the love of her life, Melchiore Bandanza. They moved to California in 1957 and raised five children together. She worked at Cambrian Bowl for 17 years, where the restaurant was eventually named in her honor—Kay’s Kitchen. Kathleen was also a devoted stay-at-home mother and grandmother. She loved cooking and playing bingo, but some of her favorite times were spent with her beautiful friends. These included birthday celebrations, Sunday morning Mass, and the breakfasts afterward with Mel tagging along. She was a generous supporter and provider—both physically and emotionally—to everyone she knew.
Affectionately known as “Kook” by her family, her greatest joy was her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Kathleen is preceded in death by her son, Mitchell Bandanza, and her husband of 68 years, Melchiore Bandanza. She is survived by her children Paul Bandanza, Joanne Bandanza, Chris Bandanza (wife, Barbara Bandanza), and Teri Allen (husband, Dave Allen).
She was the most amazing Kook to 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren—as well as to many nieces, nephews, and friends.
