Kathleen Ann Robinson, lovingly known to all as Kathy, was welcomed into the family of Paul and Katherine Viles in March of 1948, when she was adopted at the age of 10. She grew up in Nevada County near Downieville, where her parents owned the Indian Valley Trading Post. Kathy often shared fond memories of working in the store, greeting neighbors and travelers alike with her natural warmth and bright spirit.

It was there that she met a young logger named Neil Robinson, who would become her first husband and the father of her four daughters. Kathy took Neil’s name on June 24, 1956, and they were blessed with four daughters:

Susan (Bob Hoek), Laurie (Rick Edwards), Neila, and Paula (Tod Newman).

Nothing brought Kathy more joy than her family. Her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the light of her life. Her love was fierce, steady, and unconditional and she never missed an opportunity to remind them how deeply she cared.

Kathy also had a remarkable gift for hospitality. She expressed her love through food, laughter, and open doors. Many will remember walking into Midget Kitchen, Jimboys, Humpty Dumpty, Kathy’s Kitchen, or her final venture, the Country Kitchen, and being greeted with a warm smile and a heartfelt hug. To Kathy, a meal was never just a meal it was a connection, comfort, and community.

She cherished Sierra and Nevada Counties and loved sharing stories of earlier days. She spent many hours reminiscing with Cynthia Anderson, who later included some treasured memories in her book From the Woods. This past year she attended the Centennial Class reunion of Downieville High School and connected with many old friends. We drove to Gold Lake and had lunch at Bassets Station. It was non stop stories as we traveled old 49.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Katherine and Paul Viles, and her great-grandson, Trevor Jason Benso.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her four daughters, her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives were made brighter by her kindness. She will always be remembered for her generous heart and for loving those around her. “I love you more”

Celebration of Life

March 8, 2026 at 2pm

On what would have been her 88th Birthday

Penn Valley Fire House

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Penn Valley Fire Auxiliary or Hospice