Antonette J. Kavanaugh

May 31,1930- September 9, 2016

Antonette “Lil” Josephine Kavanaugh died peacefully Sept. 9 at Webster House in Palo Alto, with her family by her side. Lil was born in Netcong, NJ to Peter and Antonette Melillo. She graduated from St. Barnabus School of Nursing in 1950. She moved to CA in 1951, after marrying Clarence Kavanaugh. They were married 42 years, until his death in 1993. She was an RN at Stanford Hospital, and later a school nurse at St. Joseph’s in Atherton. She also served as a volunteer at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop for many years. She was active in the community as a member of the Menlo Park Historical Association, ICF, Serra Club, and Children of Mary. She was a founding member of the Nursing Mothers Council. She and her husband enjoyed travel, and shared adventures throughout the world. Her other interests included reading, cooking, shopping, and spending time with family. She is survived by her children: Patty (Larry), Betsy (David), Tom (Jennifer), Kathy (Chuck), Mary Ann (Don), Joe (April), Maureen (George), and Marie. She is also survived by her sister, Joyce (Jake) Getchius of NJ, 32 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. She also leaves her caregiver, Candy. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Clarence, her son, John, her sister, Marie, and her grandsons, Brian and Daniel. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Raymond Church in Menlo Park on Friday, Sept. 16 at 10 AM. Viewing will be from 5-7 PM on Thursday, Sept. 15 at St. Raymond’s, followed by the Rosary. The family suggests contributions to the John L. Kavanaugh Scholarship Fund at Serra High School, 451 W. 20th Ave. San Mateo, CA 94402, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, or Oakwood Retirement Center.