Kathleen Kinney

KINNEY, KATHLEEN, Age 76, Born December 20, 1946 – Born into Eternal Life April 2, 2023. The cherished firstborn of John E. and Kathleen (Kay) Norton Kinney, called Katie by her family, was known for her quiet nature, humility, sense of humor, loving heart and for being a generous mentor to her six siblings, Patricia, Sheila, Marian, John, Barbara, and Eileen, all of whom loved her dearly. Katie was also treasured by many aunts, uncles, scores of first cousins, in-laws, nephews, nieces, grand nephews and nieces, and Godchildren, whose lives filled her heart. Kathy, as she was known to her adult friends and business associates, graduated with a BS degree from Nazareth College in Bardstown, KY. Following a post graduate program at Cornell University she became a Registered Dietician. Kathy continued her post graduate work at Michigan State University and Central Michigan University, where she earned her Master of Science in Administration. Kathy spent most of her 40-year career as an RD working at Henry Ford Hospital and was instrumental in establishing the dietetic program in its satellite clinics. Kathy continued her RD career by starting a private consulting practice giving dietetic guidance to former and new clients in greater Detroit. She also spent years teaching nutrition courses at Wayne County Community College. Kathy was respected by her colleagues and clients and made lasting friendships through her career. Kathy also developed close friendships with volunteers whose dedication she shared for decades, working to raise funds for the Tarahumara Children’s Hospital in Mexico. She also formed strong friendships with members of the Catholic Alumni Club, with her weekly “breakfast club,” and with neighbors from Ann Arbor, Royal Oak, and Troy (and their family members). Kathy also found treasured friends among the medical professionals, support staff, and personal care givers, who helped enable her daily efforts to achieve and maintain her maximum health, strength, and independence, following her life-changing stroke 13 years ago. She deeply valued their talents, respect, optimism, and humor, and reciprocated by sharing her own brand of humor, can-do attitude, genuine interest in them, and sincere gratitude. Katie found joy in every day. She loved talking with family, friends, and people she had just met. Almost daily, she sent a written greeting to someone special in her life, conveying her love -- along with a birthday wish, congratulations, humor, sympathy, prayer, encouragement, or holiday cheer. She loved every holiday and season, sunshine, sunsets, and breezes. She loved her travels, including to Ireland, Greece, Hawaii and regular trips to Northern Michigan, for the Mackinac Bridge walk. She also enjoyed hearing about the travels of others. Katie was a life-long Detroit Tigers fan, loved Christmas, all things Irish, and had a special affinity for angels, with a stunning collection to show for it. She enjoyed a wide range of culinary menus and experiences, from cookouts to casual and fine dining. She loved a wide range of music, and especially enjoyed attending DSO concerts and plays at the Fischer Theatre and Stagecrafters. She was an avid reader and book club member. She also thrived on helping her family and friends and advocating for people in need. Katie’s deepest love, however, was for God. She drew daily strength from her prayers and joyfully anticipated the glorious eternal life promised by the Lord for those who love Him. She looked forward to being reunited with her family who preceded her in death, including her parents, sister Patty, brother John, niece Amy, and many other dear relatives and friends. As she had planned, she will be buried in St. Thomas Cemetery in Ann Arbor. Her Funeral Mass will be at St. Rene Goupil Parish, 35995 Ryan Rd., Sterling Heights 48310 on Tuesday, May 2 Instate 9:00 a.m. until time of Mass at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Tarahumara Children’s Hospital Fund, 20816 11 Mile Rd Ste. 202, St. Claire Shores MI 48081. Please feel free to share memories with family and friends at the online guestbook at WujekCalcaterra.com

Kathleen Kinney

December 20, 1946 - April 2, 2023