Kathleen Rose Vigeon

Kathleen “Kath” Vigeon, a beloved soul, passed away peacefully at home in Santee, California, on September 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 1, 1947, Kath was known for her warmth, energy, and the kindness she radiated to everyone she met. Her compassionate and encouraging spirit touched countless lives. Kath is survived by her wife Christine “Chris” Striebich, daughter Michelle Griggs, step-daughter Jessica Striebich and her husband Michael Hsieh, grandson Anthony Griggs, and brother Joseph Vigeon. Her cherished dog Bella, along with her many friends and family, will deeply miss her and the light she brought into their lives. She was lovingly known by many neighborhood children as Gramma Kath, with Anthony calling her Grammie, and Jessica affectionately calling her Aunt Kath.

Kath and Chris shared 46 wonderful years together, creating a lifetime of cherished memories. Kath had an extraordinary ability to connect with others, making friends wherever she went. She was a great listener, always there to hear what you were going through and offer support. Her passions included music, animals, fishing, dancing, and spending time with loved ones. Whether she was fishing at Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri, Santee Lakes, or Mission Bay in San Diego, Kath found peace in nature and on the water.

Her adventurous spirit led her on many travels, from an unforgettable cruise to Alaska with Chris and friends to a European tour with Chris and Jessica. She especially treasured visits to Branson to see Michelle, Anthony, and dear friends. Kath’s early travels took her to Mexico during high school, where she developed her love for language, speaking Spanish, Italian, and some Polish, learned from her parents.

Kath had a special love for the holidays, with Christmas being her favorite. She relished holiday traditions—making pierogies with her parents, Helena and Tony Vigeon, who predeceased her, sharing stories around the dinner table, and playing Christmas carols on the piano while family and friends sang along. She also carried on her parents’ legacy of helping families in need during the holidays, showing her deep commitment to helping others and spreading joy.

A lifelong animal lover, Kath adored her many dogs and delighted in feeding birds, rabbits, and deer, whether at home or in Branson. Her love for animals was matched by her joy in going on camping trips with family and friends, where she could be found fishing, playing games, singing around the campfire, and making sure everyone was having a great time.

Kath’s playful spirit shone in her love for card games and board games, always bringing a fun yet competitive energy to the table. She was also an active and athletic woman, playing shortstop on the Post Office softball team and enjoying bowling. A passionate sports fan, she rooted enthusiastically for the Buffalo Bills, St. Louis Cardinals, USC Trojans, and more, never hesitating to leap up and cheer for her teams.

Kath’s professional life was as remarkable as her personal one. Over more than 30 years with the United States Postal Service, she worked in various roles, including as a Mail Carrier, and finished her career as a Passport Acceptance Agent. She was recognized with numerous awards for her dedication, and her volunteer work with the Santee Sheriff’s Department earned her additional accolades for her service to the community.

As we say goodbye, Kath leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her memory will forever be held close by those whose lives she touched.

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Kath's Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 23rd in the afternoon. Please RSVP to let us know if you will attend.