Felix Alois Kalin

Felix Kalin (Dad, Papa, Schnike, Flex) had a playful spirit and was known for his wit. He cherished conversation and laughter and never missed an opportunity to exert his knack of mischievous teasing.

His life began in Einsiedeln, Switzerland on February 8, 1924. When he was just three, parents Daniel and Anna (Annen) packed up the family and set sail for America aboard the Hamburg. They eventually settled in Escalon where they established a dairy.

Felix’s determination and strong work ethic shone brightly from an early age as he caught gophers with his brothers to earn money for a bicycle. He excelled in academics and athletics at French Camp Grammar School and Escalon High.

After high school, while working as a milk delivery driver, he stopped on a rural road to help a young woman whose car had a flat tire. Her name was Elvira and she caught his attention. Despite her not being Swiss and he not being Italian, they fell in love and married in 1950.

Felix and Elvira settled in Manteca where they raised three wonderful children and were married for 61 years. They shared a beautiful life including backyard gardening, many camping adventures to Pinecrest and Sea Cliff, and a cherished trip to Switzerland and Italy. Their home often served as a gathering place, an open invitation for friends and family. Their family tree has flourished with five grandchildren and an incredible sixteen great-grandchildren, all of whom adored Felix.

Felix owned a freight service and farmed tomatoes before starting a 29-year career as a bus driver for Greyhound.  His ability to safely steer passengers over Echo Summit at night during a snowstorm earned him a reputation as an expert navigator.  He was also an excellent map quester, knowing the best routes to most destinations.

Felix was a devout member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Manteca, finding solace and community in his faith. He was a member of the Italian Catholic Federation and volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul for 15 years. He embraced his heritage, attending Schwing Fests at the Ripon Swiss Hall where he enjoyed a Schublig or three, cheered on the wrestlers in the sawdust pit, and danced to a lively polka.

Felix was a man of many talents including playing the harmonica, crafting beautiful stained glass, snow skiing, water skiing, and repairing anything with precision and durability.

Staying active his whole life, he was doing backflips off the diving board in his 70s and climbing a ladder to repair a gutter in his 90s. He was honored to serve as Grand Marshall of his high school alma mater’s 2021 homecoming, where he proudly rooted for the Cougars alongside fellow fans.

Felix’s spirit remained youthful and vibrant as he celebrated his 100th birthday last month, still sporting humorous T-shirts that brought chuckles to everyone.   

He passed away on March 19, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.

Felix is survived by his children Lynda Kalin, Steve (Candice) Kalin, and Judi (Edward) Oliveria. Grandchildren Scott (Stacey) Kalin, Jana (Garret) Hubbart, Hilary (Henry) Van de Pol, John (Amanda) Oliveria, and Taylor (Andrew) Huff. Great-grandchildren Ben, Kye, Liv, Wil, Mae, Kole, Drew, Chase, Brodie, Clarabelle, Olivia, Emily, Kaylin, Luke, Edison, and Thelonious.

Services will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, beginning with a viewing at 9 am and a rosary at 10 am at PL Fry & Son Funeral Home, 290 N. Union Road, Manteca. A mass will follow at 11 am at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 505 E. North Street, Manteca. A celebration of life will take place after mass at Chez Shari, 305 N. Union Road, Manteca.

Remembrances may be made to St. Anthony’s School Memorial Fund at www.sasmanteca.org/page/scholarships-giving.

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