KRIS SAM Zankich Sr.

IT'S HARD TO FORGET SOMEONE WHO GAVE US SO MUCH TO REMEMBER.

Obituary

Kris Sam Zankich Sr.
Kris Sam Zankich Sr, 93, passed away peacefully in Santa Clara on February 26, 2026.



Born into one of the pioneering Yugoslavian families of the early 20th century, Kris was part of a proud lineage that helped shape the agricultural landscape of Sunnyvale—back when it was known as The Valley of the Heart’s Delight. His family’s presence contributed to the region’s reputation for flourishing apricot, cherry, and prune orchards. Kris devoted much of his life to this work, earning deep respect for his strong work ethic and commitment to his craft. He was also a longtime member of the Amslav Men’s Club, where he built lifelong friendships and honored his cultural heritage.



To his friends and family, Kris was affectionately known as “Stody.” Though his grandson Kyle jokingly gave him a new nickname each day, “Stody” was the one that stayed—a perfect reflection of his warm, humorous, and easygoing personality. He will be remembered for his love of slot machines, good food, and cheering on his Golden State Warriors. He enjoyed bowling and treasured trips to Santa Cruz, Morro Bay, Hawaii, and Jackson Rancheria.



Kris found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He never went anywhere without his hat and sunglasses—whether he was traveling or just stepping outside. One of his most recent favorite discoveries was a $5 shower visor from “WellMart,” as he fondly called it, insisting it was the greatest thing ever invented. He was also known for his unwavering belief that Robitussin could cure anything, a memory that will continue to bring smiles.



He was a man of resilience, humor, and sincerity—rooted in tradition yet full of quirky charm. His legacy lives on in the orchards he lovingly tended, the family he raised, and the countless memories he leaves behind.



Kris is survived by his five children—Kris Jr., Dennis, John, Kathy, and Debby—along with 15 grandchildren and 21 great‑grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 72 years, Kathryn, and his son, Steven.



He will be truly and forever missed.






Memorial Mass: Friday, April 17, 2026, 10:30 AM at Church of the Resurrection, Sunnyvale, CA

Graveside service to follow

Interment of Cremated Remains: Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Los Altos, CA

Timeline

Gallery

Memory wall

April 17, 2026

Today was your day Dad I Love you I hope I made you proud xoxo

Kathleen Zankich

Family tree

Pete Zankich

Margaret Mariani Zankich

Martin Tarabochia

Antonia Marine

Joseph Zankich Sr.

Mary Tarabochia Zankich

Kathryn Rose

Full Name

Martin Zankich

Joseph Zankich

Kris S Zankich Jr

Dennis A Zankich

John P Zankich

Steven R Zankich

Kathleen M Zankich

Antoinette Zankich

Mary Zankich

Pete Zankich

Anthony Zankich

Margaret Zankich

Debby K Zankich

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Martin Zankich

Joseph Zankich

Antoinette Zankich

Mary Zankich

Pete Zankich

Anthony Zankich

Margaret Zankich

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Kathryn Rose

Full Name

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Kris S Zankich Jr

Dennis A Zankich

John P Zankich

Steven R Zankich

Kathleen M Zankich

Debby K Zankich

KRIS Zankich Sr.

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