Kathleen Louise Zizza

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Kathleen attended local parochial schools before earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in school administration from the University of Detroit. She began her career teaching in Michigan and later traveled abroad to teach for the Department of Defense in Okinawa and Turkey.

While in Turkey, Kathleen met her future husband, Paul, who was serving in the United States Air Force. She later accepted a position as an assistant principal in Asmara, Ethiopia. After many adventures abroad, she reunited with Paul in Rome, Italy, where they were married at the Vatican in 1967.

Kathleen famously told Paul that she would marry him if he promised they would move to warm, sunny California. Their next stop was Castle Air Force Base in Atwater, where Paul practiced general dentistry and Kathleen continued her teaching career. It was there that they welcomed their first child, Louis John. The family later moved to the East Coast so Paul could attend orthodontic school. After returning to California, Kathleen and Paul welcomed their second child, Ingrid. They settled in Merced, where Paul opened an orthodontic practice and together, they raised their family.

Kathleen was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She especially enjoyed attending her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and could always be heard cheering loudly from the sidelines.

Kathleen and Paul called Merced home for the next 40 years. She was an active member of the Hospital Assistance League, the Symphony League, the American Association of University Women, and the Catholic Church. She taught religious education for many years and participated in a Merced Library program that helped adults learn to read.

Kathleen also enjoyed hiking with the AAUW “Hilton Hikers.” She deeply valued the friendship of this special group and was grateful for their many shared adventures.

Throughout their lives together, Kathleen and Paul traveled the world. After every trip, Kathleen carefully created a photo album to preserve the memories of their adventures.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul, and her dear sister, Phyllis Bishop. She is survived by her son, Louis Zizza (Penny Sevaly); her daughter, Ingrid Fellows (Jason); her grandchildren, Anthony, Sasha, Cole, and Chase and many nieces and nephews.

Kathleen will be laid to rest beside Paul at St. Peter’s Cemetery in a private ceremony. A Catholic Mass will be celebrated in her memory.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Kathleen Zizza to: Our Lady of Mercy School 1400 E. 27th St. Merced, CA 95340