Nadine Camden Kirkpatrick

Nadine Camden Kirkpatrick passed away peacefully at her home on June 26, 2024 at the age of 91. Nadine was born in Long Beach, California to Bert L. and Helene Camden. She was raised, with her brother Conrad Camden, by her mother after her father passed when she was 5 years old. She graduated from Wilson High in Long Beach and subsequently attended the music school at USC. She married the love of her life and husband of 65 years, Robert Ray Kirkpatrick, also a native of Long Beach. They resided in Long Beach until 1968 before moving to Rolling Hills where they raised three boys -Gregg (Gina Maluccio), Grant (Shaya Davis) and Kent (Bernadette Nieto) and ten grandchildren -Jack, Nicola, Ryan, Alise, Allison, Cameron, Kyle, Ashley, Ben and Colin.
Nadine's legacy as an esteemed opera singer is surpassed only by the grace and elegance with which she carried herself through life. Her passion for music and her unwavering commitment to her craft inspired all who had the privilege of hearing her sing. Nadine's voice transcended boundaries, enchanting audiences from Southern California to European and South American concert halls. Her association with esteemed musicians like Zubin Mehta and the L.A. Philharmonic showcased her love for collaborations and her remarkable talent. Nadine's nurturing spirit and love for music shone brightest in the intimate gatherings at her home in Rolling Hills. Surrounded by friends and fellow musicians, and her longtime pianist Kay Grantham, she created lasting memories with soul-stirring arias and heartwarming chorales. Even as the curtains closed on her opera days, Nadine embraced a new chapter with grace and zeal, delving into the vibrant world of Cabaret. Partnered with the legendary Julie Wilson, she mesmerized audiences in New York and Los Angeles, captivating all with her charm and artistry.
But beyond her musical prowess, Nadine's true brilliance shone in the love and devotion she poured into her family. For seven decades, she shared a deep and abiding love with her husband Bob, and together they nurtured a legacy of love and strength. Despite her considerable potential to have an international singing career, she chose family first. To her grandchildren, she was more than just a grandmother; she was "Fancy Grandma," an endearing title befitting her clear elegance and timeless fashion sense. Her love for her grandchildren knew no bounds, and her presence in their lives was a source of joy and inspiration.
Today, as we bid farewell to Nadine Camden Kirkpatrick, we celebrate a life well-lived, a legacy of music, love, and grace that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. Though she may have taken her final bow, her spirit lives on in the songs she sang, the love she shared, and the profound beauty she brought to this world. Rest in peace with your beloved husband Robert and son Kent, dearest Nadine, Mom, Nana, as your legacy of love and music will continue to resonate in our hearts forevermore.
Nadine’s tribute and burial at Green Hills Mortuary in Rancho Palos Verdes on Friday July 19th at 12:30pm will be attended by family only but will be live-streamed via tribucast that can be easily accessed by visiting the link below. A Celebration of Life will follow at 3pm at Nadine’s home in Rolling Hills.
Live Stream Available at:
https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcyMDA1OTAzOTMxNzE0OCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==