Kenneth Robert Maitoza

Kenneth Robert Maitoza, 94, of Watsonville, California, passed away at his home on September 8, 2026 with his wife by his side.

Born in Watsonville on October 10, 1931, to Joseph and Rose (Mattos) Maitoza. Ken lived a life defined by devotion to his family, service to his country, hard work, adventure, and an unwavering kindness toward others.

Ken proudly served in the United States Air Force, including service during the Korean War. Following his military service, Ken began a long and successful career with Pacific Bell, later AT&T. Over more than 30 years with the company, he started as an installer and worked his way up to become an engineer. He retired at the age of 55, giving him and his beloved wife, Romba, many wonderful years enjoying retirement.

Ken and Romba shared 68 years of marriage and were truly best friends. They enjoyed trips in the RV and in Ken’s prized Corvette seeing the country.

Family was always at the center of Ken’s life. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who always made time for his wife, daughters and grandkids. He loved family vacations and created countless memories that will be treasured for generations

Ken was the best dad, a devoted husband and a beloved grandfather. He taught his family so many things, but perhaps his greatest lessons were how to work hard, treat people with kindness and respect, enjoy an adventure, and always make time for the people you love.

Ken is survived by his wife, Romba Maitoza; daughters Colleen Maitoza (Lill) and Lori Bivins (Bret); grandson Brandon Bivins; granddaughter Kendall (Bivins) Beishir (Nick) and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Maitoza and Rose (Mattos) Maitoza; brothers Mel Maitoza (Wilma), Alfred Martin (Millie) and Joseph Maitoza (Wanda); and sister Mildred Bogisich-Meyers.

His family was blessed to have him and will miss him more than words can express.They will especially miss his humor, his wisdom, his stories, and the simple joy of being able to sit down and talk with him about life.

Services for Ken will be held on October 8, 2026 at 11 am, at Holy Eucharist Catholic Church, 527 Corralitos Rd., Watsonville, CA 95076.

Those wishing to honor Ken’s memory in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Santa Cruz SPCA, at 2601 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz, Ca 95065, online at https://spcasc.org or Holy Eucharist Catholic Church, online at holyeucharistca.com .