Kathleen "Kathy" Stickler Benner

Kathleen “Kathy” Benner passed away peacefully in Visalia, CA on February 13, 2026. Born in Bakersfield, on January 30, 1946, she was raised in Visalia, attending Royal Oaks, Divisadero, and Mt. Whitney (1963). She attended CC Business College and earned her AA at COS (1967).

She proudly served as Worthy Advisor of the Rainbow Girls. Kathy is survived by her sons, John Finni, Thom Finni, and Mike Oliva; her grandchildren, Wyatt and Kathleen Finni and Alyce Ventrano; her sisters, Charlotte Weinberg and Diane Brimley; her nephews, Russell Griffes and Michael Brimley (deceased); her niece, Margaret Griffes; and more family and friends “than Dr. Carter had pills.”

“Damned and determined” to succeed, her sales career began with her parents, Margaret and Russell Stickler, at Sequoia Office Supplies. She quickly distinguished herself as a top salesperson at The Office Mart in Santa Barbara. Her career flourished for 20 years at Eastman/Office Depot, with countless awards and President’s Club honors. After retiring she worked at Carpinteria HS and Robitaille’s Candy Store.

“Come hell or high water,” Kathy gave to her community. She served as VP of Downtown Visalians, President of Quota Club of Visalia, and on the boards of Visalia Chamber of Commerce and Women’s Trade Club. She was a founder of SB Quota Club, a member of the SB Morning Optimist Club, and a board member of SB PFLAG. She mentored for seven years in the Fighting Back Mentor Program.

“So, here’s the deal,” Kathy’s greatest joys in life were being “Mom” to her sons and “Nanny” to her grandchildren, who are so grateful for the time they had with her. The family is also thankful for her wonderful care by the incredible team at Westgate Gardens.

“Anyway,” a memorial service followed by refreshments will be held on March 28, 2026, at 11:00 am at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W Goshen Ave, Visalia, CA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Kaweah Hospice.