December 07, 1965 - September 19, 2021
After a short illness, Rhonda Castagna passed away on Sunday, September 19, 2021.
Please be assured and comforted that Rhonda’s last thoughts were bright and positive; and that her last moments were with her caring and loving husband, David, holding her hand.
Rhonda was born in Omaha Nebraska on December 7, 1965, and she spent some of her early childhood in the Nebraska/Iowa area. She had very fond memories of her midwest family. Especially, her beloved grandmother. And her beloved father, James (Jim) Mercer, who she called “Pops” and “Poppy”. And her very loving and caring stepmother, Cindy. As mature adults, Cindy and Rhonda developed a mother and daughter relationship that will endure forever. Rhonda went back to visit as often as she could.
As a girl, Rhonda came to California and graduated from Linden High School. Most of her life was spent in Stockton where she acquired many friends with her warm heart and kind spirit. A long-time employee of San Joaquin County Public Works, she often said that they were her second family. Those that knew Rhonda will miss her wry smile and the twinkle in her eyes. For those that really knew Rhonda, practical jokes, big laughs and honest sincerity will be missed.
Devoted animal lover, especially cats, Rhonda will always be remembered for the very large number of stray animals that she fostered and adopted to good homes. She was a devoted San Francisco 49er fan even during the bad years. Many years of RVing with David always started with Rhonda pronouncing “On to the next adventure” with one of the little dogs sitting on her lap. She also enjoyed live events such as festivals, music concerts, theater, and sporting events. But Rhonda also enjoyed the quiet and calm times in her life: sunsets at Maui, the wind moving through the trees at Lake Tahoe, and walking the foggy streets of San Francisco.
Family get-togethers were the constant and looked-forward-to events that really let Rhonda shine. The Fourth of July family celebrations and fireworks at the Mercer’s lake house in Iowa. The family holiday meals at home or at others’ homes with always way too much food and way too much laughing. At a casual glance, sometimes Rhonda might have come across as private or reserved. As an example, taking a picture of Rhonda was very difficult as she was constantly trying to move out of the picture or trying to hide behind David. But with family, Rhonda worked very hard to make sure everyone had the opportunity to see her true spirit.
Rhonda was predeceased by her mother, Carolyn Gallatin, and her father. Rhonda is survived by her husband, David Castagna, who was her mutually agreed upon best friend, life partner and soulmate. She is also survived by her stepmother, Cindy Mercer; her brothers Mike and Alan Mercer; her daughter, Nichole (Hubbard) Lamberti and family; her nephew, Andy Mercer; and her stepsons Luke (Cathy) Castagna, Dane Castagna, and Nick Castagna. Rhonda was the adoring “Noni” to Luke and Cathy’s children and Rhonda’s “grandbabies”, Sophia and Nathan.
For Rhonda’s family and friends left with Rhonda’s passing, she and David spoke often. Rhonda was clear. She understood the grief and mourning process. But Rhonda wanted everyone to focus on the healing process. She wanted everyone to move forward to the best of their ability. And take whatever time is needed and talk among yourselves. Ultimately, Rhonda made it easier for all of us. Rhonda’s life provided us with great moments, stories and memories.
For David, please don’t be offended if you say to him “I’m so sorry” and he replies, “Me too.” His response is not meant in any way to be casual or insensitive. He really means it and it pulls on his heart and soul a little each time. But don’t stop. Please also tell David about one of your great Rhonda memories.
VISITATION
A public visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 5, 2021, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home located at 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, CA.
SERVICE
A later graveside committal will be private and family-only.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Castagna family.
