Kathryn Y. Kautz

On Thursday, May 14, 2020, Kathryn “Kathy”
Y. Kautz, loving mother of two and Nana to many, passed away at home,
surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 68.

Kathy was born on July 4, 1951 in Jacksonville,
Fl.  After raising her children, Kathy
worked for Sargento Foods, Inc. for 28 years, retiring in 2017.  She was a dedicated, hard working employee
with a strong work ethic who took pride in the effort she gave for so many
years.

What does one say about a soul who has touched so many
lives in a positive manner?  Moments like
this bring that which is important in life into sharp relief – the indelible
mark we leave on others. Being brought into the world on Independence Day was
perfectly fitting as Kathy had a “Firecracker” personality, a quick
wit, a strong sense of what was right, a deep love and dedication to her family
and an infectious smile.  Kathy was a
true child of the water, adoring her time at the beach, on a boat, fishing and
simply being near the ocean. The scent of briny air made everything in her life
better and she spoke of it endearingly, saying, “I am home”, whenever
visiting the ocean and Florida.  She
loved scallops, clam-diggers, fish camps, and dress flip-flops.  Kathy regarded her family heritage as
Minorcan settlers of St. Augustine, Fl., dearly.  Whether she was speaking about the Arnau
House, the Mayport Cemetery, The Lighthouse or the Castillo de San Marcos, she
ensured her children and grandchildren were taught about the historical
significance their family played a part in. Kathy possessed a deep love of and connection
with animals. Throughout her life, several dogs and cats had the distinct honor
of being one of her adopted babies.

Kathy is survived by her two children, Raymond
(Rachel) Kautz and Angela (Shane) Dvorjac, her cherished sister, Grace (James
“Jim”) Addy, a brother, her dearest aunt Mildred, seven
grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents Joseph
and (Alice) Arnua Sr., her father, Joseph Arnua Jr., and one great grandchild.

Honoring Kathy’s wishes, there will be no services or
celebration of life, but rather a private family event.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in
Kathy’s memory to the St. Augustine Historical Society at 271 Charlotte St, St.
Augustine, FL 32084.

Kurki Funeral Chapel & Crematory is serving the
family, www.kurkifuneralchapel.com. 920-921-4420