Obituary

Kathleen was married to my brother Phil until his passing. There were many family gatherings over the years. She was a defender of those less fortunate. My condolences to her daughter Maeve and her grandson Seamus.

What a lovely true and fiercely loyal person. I’ll carry my memories of Kathleen’s commitment to a decent kind world forward. The last time I saw Kathleen we were all saying Gnite and she gave me the most heartfelt big sisterly kiss on the cheek. She knew her ppl and loved her ppl and we love her. See you on the other side. MPM

I have known Kathleen since we were in first grade at NDCS (yes, back then it was called a Convent School.) There were only 7 girls in our first grade class. Kathleen was one of my favorite playmates; I loved going to her home. Her parents and siblings welcomed me warmly. I remember Kathleen had a Hallowe'en party, and we were supposed to bring a doll in costume. My Grandmother made a pumpkin costume for my doll. I dressed as a Geisha (with red hair? What was I thinking?). For my birthday one year, Kathleen gave me a parakeet. I called her Colleen. I can still hear the sound of her voice, and her laugh. We had a couple of phone conversations over the years. I wish we had had more. Our entire 6th grade class put on a show to help the Catholic Bishop's Relief Fund. It had a "Roaring 20s" theme. Kathleen's sister, Maureen, coached me to sing, "Melancholy Baby." Unfortunately, I had pneumonia, and I could not perform. Nevertheless, I had fun rehearsing and we made, I believe, $60.00. (Wow) I will be returning from Scotland on July 24, and barring the unforeseen, I plan to attend the Mass on the 24th.

Dear Maureen, Maeve and Seamus, Last I spoke with Kathleen was soon after my mom’s passing back in January. We kept in touch throughout the years we shared memories, family stories and the greatest thrill of becoming a grandma to Seamus. Kathleen was my first friend when I arrived at ND in 7th grade, she made me feel welcomed. Daily after school we rode the uptown bus together until graduation in 1966. Kathleen remained the bridge to all things ND. She told me about her illness and treatment and how Sara and Ann were there for her and yet, as per our last phone call, she sounded hopeful for a good outcome. We talked about Seamus’s first trip to Ireland and Maeve’s art exhibits and Maureen’s good health and the summer house out East. A significant and loving chapter has closed for me and all who knew your amazing sister/mum/grannie and I will cherish her spirit, values and courage always. I carry you in my heart at this time of loss and say I was blessed to have known Kathleen. With heartfelt condolences and love, Nicki

Kathleen was always a crusader for human decency. She welcomed a good conversation with everyone she met, regardless of their background or status. Her kindness, warmth, and genuine interest in others touched many lives. Kathleen will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.