Feb. 9, 1935 – Sept. 13, 2018

Kay Ellen Rinder, 83, a longtime Glendale resident, unexpectedly passed away from a massive stroke on Thursday, Sept. 13.

Kay was an outstanding wife, mother, “nani” and friend to many who describe her as a smart, beautiful, strong, practical, humble, generous and overall classy woman. She was the “rock” in the family and spent many hours talking through issues with all sorts of people using a very analytical and common sense approach. All who knew her loved and appreciated Kay’s patience and wisdom.

Kay was one of five children born in Redwing, Minnesota in 1935. She moved to California in 1958 to pursue a career in union work. Kay, who went by “Pat” at work, gave 44 years of service to UFCW (United Food and Commercial Workers) Local 770 as a director and vice president.

UFCW 770 stated, “Pat highlighted, drew attention and confirmed the importance of negotiated benefits for 770 as well as provided counsel, stability and perspective on our work. [Losing her is a] significant loss that we should acknowledge as we organize to enhance our members and their families lives, in a complete sense.”

Kay/Pat was well respected by her colleagues and enjoyed “making a difference” for members and their families.

On Oct. 7, 1961, Kay married Jim Rinder, sharing nearly 57 years together and having four beautiful children: Lisa Salas (56), Darrel Rinder (54), Debbie Rinder (54) and Kim Mosher (52), who created 10 outstanding grandchildren: Kevin Rinder (38), John Salas (27), Christopher Mosher (26), Nicole Salas (26), Kaitlyn Rinder (25), Michael Rinder (24), Kaylynne Mosher (23), Brendan Rinder-O’Rourke (23), Kelly Rinder-O’Rourke (21) and Timmy Rinder-O’Rourke (19), and one awesome great-grandchild Alexis Rinder (7), aka “the baby.”

Kay valued family and expected full family participation at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas in her typically overly decorated house. Everyone was welcome at the Rinder house.

Additionally, gambling was a favorite pastime for Kay and the family who took yearly trips to the casino. Kay was very lucky and quickly earned and still holds the title of “Royal Flush Queen” as she spent many hours playing video poker. These memories and traditions will continue for generations to come.

A celebration of life for Kay will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church (Carlson Fellowship Center) located at 134 Kenwood Road, Glendale followed by a lunch reception and socialization with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers and to support Kay’s love for gardening, if you would like to send an outdoor plant/flower for her garden or a card to the family, please send to 1741 El Rito Ave. Glendale, CA 91208.