Kristi Ann Cintas passed away peacefully on April 26, surrounded by her immediate family.
A Los Banos resident, she was a loving and caring grandmother, wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Kristi was known for her endearing and heartfelt hugs that made people feel loved, safe and secure. Her smile could light up a room, even on the sunniest day.
Born in San Jose on December 23, 1960, Kristi was the cherished daughter of Helen and Mike Nocito. She loved her parents deeply and was a devoted, caring daughter. The Nocito family originally lived in Los Banos and relocated to San Jose in 1960.
Kristi attended Catholic school from kindergarten through high school. In her early years, she enjoyed spending time with her siblings and cousins from Los Banos. Kristi graduated from Notre Dame in 1977.
She became a dental assistant soon after and later worked at San Jose State, where she developed lifelong friendships and lasting memories.
In 1981, Kristi’s life changed forever when she gave birth to her daughter, Gina—her greatest gift: motherhood. In 1984, she welcomed Richard (Chase), fulfilling even more of her dreams. In 1988, she met the love of her life, George Cintas, and they married in 1990.
Kristi and George shared an everlasting friendship—true teammates in life. George had two sons of his own, Nick and Brad Cintas, and together they formed a modern-day Brady Bunch. In 1992, Kristi fulfilled yet another dream and gave birth to Sean Cintas, who became the glue of the family.
In 1999, Kristi and George relocated to Los Banos, replanting the family roots. Kristi worked for the Los Banos Unified School District for thirteen years, serving as a security guard, a district office assistant, and a teacher’s aide. She took great pride in working with children and making a difference in their lives.
Kristi enjoyed spending time with friends and family, watching her favorite shows—“The tribe has spoken!”—or sitcoms, and relaxing at the beach, her happy place where she felt truly free.
She shared a special bond with both her grandkids and her mother. Her grandkids brought a special sparkle to her eye, and she and her mother, Helen, spoke on the phone with her every night, like clockwork, until her final day.
Kristi loved her children fiercely and would do anything for them. She was cherished by so many—and she loved them right back. She had a way of making others feel special and important. A truly wonderful woman — devoted, affectionate and beautiful.
Kristi is survived by her mother, Helen Nocito; husband, George Cintas; sister, Lori Nocito Boyles (Don); and her children: Gina Polini (AJ), Chase Turini and Sean Cintas. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Tyler, Owen, Gianna, Jaxon, Ivie, Jordyn and Adeline. Kristi’s father, Michael Nocito, and her brothers, David Nocito and Michael Nocito, preceded her in passing.
Thank you, Kristi, for the beautiful memories. You will always be remembered and never forgotten.
A rosary and celebration of life Mass will be held on Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Los Banos, CA.
