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Big sisters are very special people in our lives, and Kathy was a great big sister who loved me unconditionally, made me laugh, made great family memories, and gave me my love of music. She was the cool big sister when I was little, and even though I was probably the pain in the neck kid sister, she shared her albums with me. In years later when she was in the worst parts of the disease, I still played that music for her whenever I was with her and always got her to sing along, then hum along, then smile. There are so many stories, but one in particular from childhood stands out for me. We were visiting Ireland as a family in 1972, and Kathy, Noreen, and I were sharing a room in a castle that we were staying in. I was 13, Noreen was 15, and Kathy was 19. We were so goofy and laughing and pretending we were royalty that we never slept the whole night. There are many memories like this and many more memories as we got older. Kathy was the best Aunt to my kids and Noreen’s kids, and she and Ken loved spending time with them and spoiling them. I also worked with her for a while at Catholic Relief Services, and it was inspirational to watch how committed she was to the mission. I love you and will miss you so much big sister, but I am thankful that your difficult end of life journey is now over and you are at peace, and I’m sure Mom and Dad welcomed you with Dad playing the accordion for you and the whole family in heaven celebrating to have you back.

Hello Ken. Many years ago I attended your wedding to Kathy. I was yet another cousin (they just keep coming) connected to Kathy's family from the Sheehan side. It was a delightful wedding and you and Kathy were very happy. It is the way I will always think of Kathy. I am grateful for the memory. Take care, Eileen

"Kathleen" was just too formal. No, she was just Kathy or more likely -- Kath. I'd nearly forgotten that wonderful smile of hers until I saw the pictures that Ken posted. As adults we forget something that every child knows all too well, that one of the best things in life are cousins. And Kath was a special one. I remember playing with her for hours. Although I hated it when we played tag, she was much, much faster than I. So I shouldn't be surprised that Kath beat me to heaven. God bless you Kath. And God bless you Ken for being Ken.

Rest Peacefully, Kathy.