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
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No matter how much time passes, there is still a pain inside me that never fully leaves. Some days it is quiet. Other days it hurts so much that it feels impossible to breathe.
People think grief fades with time. Maybe in some ways it does. Maybe you learn how to hide it better. Maybe you learn how to smile even when your heart is breaking. But the ache never really disappears.
Because when you lose your Dad, you lose someone you thought would always be there. Someone who made life feel safer. Someone whose voice could calm you down and whose presence made everything feel okay.
There are still days when I need you. Days when life gets hard and all I want is to hear your voice again. Days when something happens and my first thought is, “I need to tell Dad.”
I miss your laugh.
I miss your advice.
I miss the way you made me feel protected.
And no matter how many years go by, I know there will always be a part of me that aches for you.
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Together, let us continue the legacy of compassion and kindness that KRIS embodied throughout their life.
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