Martha Kathriner
June 22, 1923
October 20, 2018
Martha Kathriner passed away peacefully on October 20, 2018 at the Ramona Senior Manor in Ramona, California. She was born on June 22, 1923 in New York City to parents Martha and Johan Leitlein who had immigrated from Germany. Martha spent her childhood in Manhattan and her adolescence in Germany. Following WWII, she moved to San Diego where she met her future husband, Leo Kathriner. In 1958, they moved to Ramona where they had a chicken ranch and then a tractor service. Martha and Leo were members of the San Diego Swiss Club. They were also leaders of the Ramona Paisanos 4-H Club where they provided many wonderful opportunities for their daughters, Susan and Trudie, and numerous other children.
Martha loved gardening. People driving down San Vicente Road could see Martha in her terraced garden working among her beautiful flowers and boysenberry vines. Martha was known for her boysenberry pie and jam and for her German Christmas cookies. She loved to read and also enjoyed playing cards and going on family camping trips. She always had a positive outlook on life.
Martha is survived by her daughters Trudie Newell (Kirk) and Susan Spezzini (Luis) and grandsons Garret Newell (Bethany), Victor Spezzini (Melissa), and Dino Spezzini as well as many nieces and nephews. Martha was preceded in death by her husband Leo Kathriner, her brother John Leitlein, and her grandson Dustin Newell.
Martha will be laid to rest with her husband Leo Kathriner at the Nuevo Memory Gardens in Ramona, CA. Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, November 4th from 12:00 to 3:30 in the Rotunda at the San Diego Country Estates International Equestrian Center, located at 16911 Gunn Stage Road, Ramona, CA.
Martha’s family would like to thank the Ramona Senior Manor and Silverado Hospice for their support and kindness. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in memory of Martha Kathriner to Friends of the Ramona Library, PO Box 843, Ramona, CA 92065.
Bonham Brothers & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.
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