Kathleen Louise Perch

Kathleen Louise Perch, lovingly known as Kathy, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, at the age of 77. Born Kathleen Louise Antonino on February 4, 1949, in Van Nuys, California, Kathy was the beloved daughter of John Batista Antonino and Margaret "Mickie" Frank Antonino. The oldest of three children, she spent her childhood in Bakersfield, California, alongside her sister, Barbara, and brother, Chuck. Kathy graduated from Garces Memorial High School and later attended Fresno State University. On April 3, 1970, Kathy married the love of her life, Basil Jivon Perch. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, family, and unwavering devotion for more than 52 years until Basil's passing on December 12, 2022. Kathy's greatest joy in life was her family. Kathy was a loving and devoted mother to Tiffany Wainwright (Daniel), Dedi Somavia (Bryan), and BJ Perch (Megan). She dedicated many years to being a loving stay-at-home mother, raising her three children with endless creativity and unconditional love. Kathy loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, creating memories, taking them on special outings, and enjoying cherished Sunday family dinners. She was an incredibly proud and adoring grandmother to her ten cherished grandchildren: Mitchell, Nicholas, Ashley, Sydney, Jacob, Shelby, BJ, Alex, Tyler, and Kylie. Nana, as her grandchildren affectionately called her, treasured every moment with them, and they were truly the light of her life. Kathy had a remarkable creative spirit and was a gifted artist. She loved drawing, sewing, and crafting. In the 1980s, alongside her dear friends Sandy Brown and Diane Rose, she co-founded a home-based craft business called All Thumbs. Together, they created handcrafted treasures that became beloved by many throughout the Visalia community. In 1986, Kathy returned to Fresno State to follow her passion for education, earning her bachelor's degree and teaching credential before beginning a meaningful and rewarding second chapter as an educator. While teaching, Kathy earned her master's degree in education. Kathy proudly served as a teacher with Visalia Unified School District at Mineral King Elementary School from November 18, 1991, until her retirement on June 5, 2008. She taught both kindergarten and fifth grade, pouring her heart, energy, and time into every student who entered her classroom. Kathy found her true calling in education. Teaching was where she found her place and truly shone. Kathy was an extraordinary teacher who believed deeply in the power of education and in making every child feel seen, encouraged, and capable. She touched the lives of countless students throughout her career, and the impact of her kindness, patience, and dedication will be remembered for generations. During her years at Mineral King, she also formed cherished lifelong friendships with fellow staff members. In 1993, Kathy and Basil founded BJ Perch Construction, building not only a successful family business but another meaningful chapter of their life together. Even while teaching full-time, Kathy spent countless evenings helping support the business alongside Basil. After retiring from education, she joined BJ Perch Construction on a more full-time basis, working side by side with her husband until her retirement in 2021. Retirement simply allowed her to step fully into her favorite role, being a full-time Nana. Her creativity became one of the greatest gifts she shared with her family. Kathy created Halloween costumes, sewed dresses, and helped make dress-up days fun and exciting with her endless creativity. In addition, Nana spent countless hours helping her grandchildren with school projects, arts and crafts, and elaborate creations. The beloved second-grade Oak Grove storybook pumpkins remain some of the family's most treasured memories. Kathy's giving spirit extended beyond her family and career. She was a proud member of Las Madrinas Guild, an organization dedicated to raising funds in support of Valley Children's Hospital and the children and families it serves throughout the Central Valley. Kathy embraced life's simple joys. She was a devoted Disney and Mickey Mouse fan, a love that happily spread to many of her grandchildren. She also had a special talent for finding the perfect treasure, and those who knew her knew you could often find her happily browsing the aisles of TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or HomeGoods. Kathy's warmth, beautiful smile, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends. Kathy is preceded in death by her parents, John Batista Antonino and Margaret "Mickie" Frank Antonino; and her loving husband Basil Jivon Perch. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister Barbara Daniels (Ellis), brother Chuck Antonino, extended family, dear friends, former students, and all those fortunate enough to know and love her. Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with her beloved husband, Basil. Kathleen Louise Perch leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, creativity, service, and devotion. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Kathleen Louise Perch

February 4, 1949 - May 10, 2026