According to the North County Times, Brother Benno’s co-founder Kay Kutler passed away this weekend in her home. At 77 years old, she lost her battle to Parkinson’s disease, which she had fought for many years.  Started in 1983, the Kutler family started this non-profit soup kitchen in downtown Oceanside. This organization served food, provided clothing and shelter for thousands of homeless families.  Kay had touched so many hearts because she was really among the people.  Kay stood at the door everyday and hugged every person who came through.  Kay’s husband of 47 years said that Kay must have given 750,000 hugs to the community overtime.  Kay Kutler was a true star in the community.

    If you would like to honor and celebrate the life of this wonderful inspiration, Kay’s funeral arrangements are as follows: The viewing is scheduled for Thursday at 5 p.m. at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church located at 609 Pier View Way. The recitation of the rosary will be at 7p.m. at the church.  A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Friday at St. Mary, with interment at 2:30 p.m. Friday at Eternal Hills Memorial Park at 1999 El Camino Real.

    Many members of Alta Vista Insurance Agency were heavily involved in volunteering for the Brother Benno’s organization. Kay was a very well known person to our agency and we are deeply sorry to hear such unfortunate news. 

    We wish the best for the Kutler family. Kay will be greatly missed, but also remembered as making a huge difference within the community.