Kimberly Ann Brabo

Kimberly Ann Brabo passed away of natural causes July 10, 2022, at her home in Yuma, Arizona. She was born February 25, 1957, in Glendale, California, to Kathryn Ann Ohm and Charles Bertrand Watson. Kim’s father Chuck moved the family to Martinez Lake, Arizona, in 1970 which began a happy new chapter in Kim’s life with “stepmother” Barbara Clark and “stepbrother” Matthew Clark. Along with her sisters, Julie and Geri, Kim found the river a special place.

Kim graduated from Kofa High School in 1975 and attended Northern Arizona University Flagstaff with many of her friends, enjoying good times there. She graduated from Northern Arizona University and moved to Palm Springs, California, to be close to her grandparents, Walter and Bertha Ohm. She began a successful career as a CPA in Palm Springs, later becoming a controller with Leeds and Sons Jewelers for over 30 years. Kim married Michael Brabo Jr. in October 1990, beginning their family with stepsons Aaron Brabo and Michael Brabo III. In 1991 Kim’s daughter Lauren Ashley Brabo was born, and in 1994 her son Ryan Charles Brabo was born.

Kim had particularly fond memories of trips she and Mike took with her parents to Florida and Alaska. She and Mike always enjoyed taking their children on motorhome trips, boating, waterskiing, and snow skiing. They spent most of their summers in their motorhome at the beach in San Diego or at their second home “Casa de Brabo” on the Colorado River.

Kim had many excellent qualities: intelligence, beauty, and humor. Her gentle, sensitive spirit created a heart for others and a generosity that blessed anyone needing help or support. Kim graciously opened her home inclusively to all, hosting holidays, parties, and other festivities.

Kim had many hobbies, her favorite being baking creative birthday cakes for her children. She was passionate about photography, often capturing images of nature and people. She had a reputation for taking lots and lots of photos. Kim loved music and often rocked out to classic rock, a favorite being the Steve Miller Band. Her rhythm was rarely in sync, so dance was not a strong suit, but she sure tried! Following in her dad’s footsteps, Kim was a true animal lover and had many pets (Maggie, Angel, Oreo, Lulu, and Dixie) fortunate to find their way into her home to become a part of her family.

The one thing that brought Kim the most joy was taking her children, friends, and girlfriends to “Casa de Brabo” on the Colorado River, and San Diego Mission Bay RV Park. She graciously shared these places with everyone, bringing family and friends together, making many rich and lasting memories. Whether we were biking, boating, barbecuing, in awe of big horn sheep or fireworks, scooter or kneeboard rides, every experience was laced with grace and laughter. With a heart of gratitude and love, embedded memories fill the hearts of many.

Kim is survived by her daughter Lauren Ashley Irvine (Andrew), and sons Ryan Brabo, Aaron Brabo, and Michael Brabo III, former husband Michael Brabo Jr., sister Julie Knowlton and ¬brother-in-law Ron Knowlton, sister Geraldine Watson, stepbrother Matthew Clark, seven grandchildren, and six nieces and nephews and many

great-nieces and great-nephews. She was predeceased in death by her parents.

The family will hold a private celebration of life at a time to be determined.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the Brabo family.