Kathleen Renee Traina

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathleen Renee Traina, age 54, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, on September 4, 2025, in Torrance, California. Born on July 22, 1971, in Inglewood, California, Kathleen brought light and joy into the world from the very beginning.

Kathleen was a special rose—a radiant presence whose warmth and love touched everyone around her. Though she spoke few words, her smile could light up a room and her laughter was nothing short of infectious. Her ability to communicate volumes without saying much was one of her many quiet gifts. She embraced life with a pure heart and found joy in the simple things: colorful balloons, cuddly stuffed animals (especially the talking ones), cartoons, music, McDonald’s french fries enjoyed with a diet Coke and a straw, timeless classics like “The Little Rascals”, and most of all her family and friends.

Her world may have seemed simple to some, but to those who truly knew her, it was filled with profound beauty. Kathleen loved unconditionally and gave more than she ever asked for in return. Her presence reminded us all of what truly matters—kindness, laughter, and love freely given.

Preceded in death by her grandparents, Nick and Angie Plakos. Kathleen is survived by her parents Christine Plakos Velderrain and Vincent Traina, stepmother Joan Traina, stepfather Phil Velderrain, sister Nicole Carroll, brother n law Tom Carroll, nephews Matthew and Brian Carroll, as well as numerous family and friends.

Our family is grateful for all the love, comfort, and care that Kathy’s caretaker Toni Harris provided her and the family.

The Trisagion service will be held at Saint Katherine's Greek Orthodox Church in Redondo Beach, CA, on Wednesday, September 17th at 6:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at Saint Katherine's Greek Orthodox Church in Redondo Beach on Thursday, September 18th at 11:00 AM with the Makaria (mercy meal) directly after in the Saint Katherine’s community center. Internment will take place at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA at 3:00 PM.

Though she has left this world, Kathleen’s spirit continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She taught us more than we could have ever taught her—and for that gift, we are forever grateful. May her memory bring comfort and joy to all who carry it forward.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Kathleen are welcome to be directed to: St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church “memo” Kathleen Traina. All donations received in memory of Kathleen will be in support of the annual ARC Dinner.