In loving memory of Kristen “Kristy” Kathleen Dunst, October 31, 1967 – July 3, 2026
Kristen Kathleen “Kristy” Dunst, a beloved educator, lifelong Fillmore resident, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, at the age of 58 from a brave battle with cancer.
Born on October 31, 1967, in Ventura, California, Kristy spent her entire life in Fillmore, remaining in her family home where she was raised. Her deep roots in the community shaped the life she would dedicate to serving others.
Kristy attended San Cayetano School, Sespe Elementary School, Fillmore Junior High School, and graduated from Fillmore High School with the Class of 1985. A woman of many talents and interests, she earned licensure as a travel agent and graduated from Oxnard Beauty College. However, her true calling had been planted years earlier by the kindness and inspiration of her kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Winterstein. The lasting impression of a caring teacher sparked a passion that would define Kristy’s life.
Kristy earned her teaching credential from California State University, Northridge, to serve the community she loved. For more than 20 years, she faithfully served as an elementary school teacher at San Cayetano School, where she became a cherished mentor, and role model to hundreds of children and their families.
Throughout her career, Kristy touched the lives of more than 600 students. She believed learning should be filled with joy, curiosity, and kindness, and her classroom reflected that every day. Her infectious Aloha Friday spirit made every child feel welcomed and valued. Many former students can still smile as they recall singing along to “Mele Kalikimaka,”
Kristy’s greatest legacy is not found in awards or accomplishments, but in the countless lives she shaped with patience, compassion, and unwavering belief in every child. She devoted her life to the community that nurtured her, giving back through education, service, and love.
She is survived by her mother Mary Judith Dunst, brother Scott Dunst (wife, Kelly Van der Wyk Dunst), nephew Dylan Dunst, niece Emma Dunst, aunt Karent Dunst Hawkins and cousin Kari Hawkins Wilson (husband, Gordon Wilson).
In addition to being a devoted and loving Godmother, Kristy was an “Auntie Heart” to so many others, embracing them with the same love, warmth and unwavering care as family.
She will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle spirit, joyful laughter, and steadfast commitment to her students, colleagues, friends, family and hometown. Though she is deeply missed, the lessons she taught and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her dear friends who remained faithfully by Kristy’s side, offering their love, support, and companionship throughout her journey. They also wish to express their sincere appreciation to the compassionate nursing staff at Community Memorial Hospital for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided during her final days.
She will forever remain a treasured part of the Fillmore community she loved so dearly. A celebration of her life and Aloha spirit will be held on Saturday August 1, 2026, at 4pm at the Fillmore Active Adult Center (533 Santa Clara Street, Fillmore).