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Kathy Conour Obituary
SPRINGFIELD - Kathy Conour, 66, of Springfield died Saturday, September 19, 2009 at Memorial Medical Center.
She was born March 22, 1943 in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Eugene F. and Josephine DeRose Conour.
Kathy completed a AA degree at Kankakee Community College, and a bachelor's degree in social work at Olivet Nazarene. She was a member of ARC of Illinois. The ARC of Illinois is committed to empowering persons with disabilities to achieve full participation in community life through informed choices. She was also a member of United Cerebral Palsy of Illinois, the Springfield Center for Independent Living, the Illinois Planning Council and the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities. She served as editor and writer of various newsletters.
She is survived by her friend of 42 years, Diana Braun; and 5 first cousins including, Mary Conour Erickson of Seattle, George Conour of Springfield and Joseph Conour of Tucson.
Kathy, with Diana, who has Down syndrome, have long been active fighting for the rights of people with disabilities. They gave instruction and inspiration for others with severe disabilities who live independently. Kathy and Diana are featured in the documentary film, "Body and Soul," by Alice Elliott, that tells the story of their life together.
Visitation will be 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 25, 2009, at Blessed Sacrament Church. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend David Hoefler officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to ARC of Illinois in memory of Kathy Conour. Please put Kathy's name on the memo line and make the check out to The Arc of Illinois, 20901 LaGrange Rd., Suite 209, Frankfort, IL 60423. The money will be used to fund Diana Braun's continuing travel to conferences and meetings focused on people with disabilities, where she will be showing "Body and Soul," and discussing Kathy and Diana's independent life together.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kathy Conour
Jan
October 22, 2009
I met two of the bravest, most intelligent ladies ever on PBS. Kathy, your legacy will live in the hearts of many forever. Diana, your spirit will always be connected to Kathy. I admire you both so much. Kathy, I hope your journey is peaceful and Diana, know that we are all sending love and prayers your way.
Gina
October 22, 2009
I just saw the documentary yesterday evening. I fell in love with you and Diana. I love you, and thank you, for a lesson much needed.
Susan Mains
October 20, 2009
Diana, I just finished watching the documentary of you and Kathy on PBS. Your lives are awesomely inspirational. You have left legacies for generations to come. Thank you for sharing your story with me and so many others. My prayer for you is that you will find a measure of peace during this difficult time of loss. God bless you.
luz Nava
October 19, 2009
Diana,you're wonderful! Today is a month that Kathy passed. I happened to see the pbs show just last night. My condolences to you. I could not stop the tears as I watched you two beautiful angels at work on this earth. You truly are inspirational and Diana do not give up. Get to enjoy all that life can offer and never let go of Kathy's spirit! She is right there with you.
October 17, 2009
Kathy and Diana
Two wonderful women their story fabled
They fought for justice for those disabled
In a system of paper and rules and tiers
They held onto their lifeboat and tackled their fears
Forced to live as persons homebound
They traveled to Washington and covered much ground.
You were put on this earth to plant a rare seed
To help those who struggle, for those in great need
Kathy went home to accept her reward
to a beautiful place unattached to a cord
Your work together will live on forever
you have inspired us with your joint endeavor
The effects of your labors will never cease
and Kathy is home now, there's no pain she's in peace.
You are both in our thoughts and prayers. Julie Johnson,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Jayme Shelton
October 14, 2009
Kathy and Diana's story has moved me to tears. I was blessed to see the documentary on PBS. Kathy's family, friends, and dearest friend Diana will be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you Kathy.
stephen johnson
October 12, 2009
What a beautiful person you are. I only wish I had seen Body and Soul before you left this earth, I would have loved to have known you both. What a beautiful and inspiring story. The true meaning of love and friendship.
Licia Lukach
October 11, 2009
Although I never met you, you touched my life on Oct.9th. I watched the PBS special with tears flowing. You see, my son is cognitively disabled as well as physically disabled so your story struck my heart with happiness and sadness. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. You will never be forgotten.
sharon and peter
October 11, 2009
diana, sweet girl, your show changed our lives. i can't put into words enough praise and appreciation for all that you did. my husband and i were beyond amazed at your tenacity, perseverance, dedication, unselfishness, accomplishments, sincerity, kindness, and on and on with so much more.
we feel such sadness for you to have lost your dear friend; we can only hope that you can find some peace in knowing how much you helped her and also so many countless others.
we hope one day to meet you, and at that time, perhaps our hearts and eyes can speak sufficiently, where words fail.
sending love from new jersey. xxoo
Liz Blake
October 11, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you Diana. I loved the film, it was very moving. God bless you Kathy. Liz Blake (California)
October 10, 2009
October 10,2009. Dear Diana,I just saw the film Body and Soul, you made me cry, you made me laugh. What an inspirational team you and Cathy made.I went online and found out that Cathy had died,but what wonderful memories you have to cherish and to keep your cause alive. With deepest sympathy,Pat.~Patricia Smalls, Hempstead, New York
Susan Zawyrucha
October 10, 2009
Dear Diana,
I applaud the loving care you have given to your dear friend all these years. You are an amazing woman! I am inspired by you, and by what you and Kathy have done to help improve the lives of people with disabilities.
Thinking of you with deepest sympathy,
Susan
Cynthia Doty
October 10, 2009
I just saw the film Body and Soul and was inspired and moved. Such remarkable women whose advocacy and personal stories have helped so many. My heartfelt sympathies to Diana on your loss. May the wonderful memories keep you moving on.
Gutierrez
October 10, 2009
Congratulations on two lives well-lived. The beauty of your friendship and the strength of your determination are deeply moving.
Christine Garcia
October 9, 2009
You are both truly an inspiration. May God bless you always.
Mr. and Mrs. Sirna
October 9, 2009
Diana,
We just saw the excellent documentary on PBS and are so sorry for your loss of Kathy. Keep on keeping on, we love your attitude! May God give you continued strength.
Tanisha Washington
October 9, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Kathy's passing, My prayer is that Diana will be able to have all her dreams come true, I am honored to see the program and your dedication for your rights. May God bless you for all your work.
In my prayers,
Tanisha Washington
October 9, 2009
I just watched their film What incrediable people
I love them both
av
Andrea & Ian Orane Djurkin
October 6, 2009
Brava to Kathy!
Brava to Diana!
Brava to Alice Elliott and all those linked to the Body and Soul documentary -- which we were introduced to this evening.
Though saddened to learn of Kathy's recent death, our family has learned a lot tonight, for which we are truly grateful.
Thank you for your intimate story of love, friendship, strength, humor and honesty.
Blessed love to you and the cats!
Peace, reflection, love, joy --- One Love
The Orane Family
Melissa Sweeney
October 6, 2009
My condolences to the friends and family of a fantastic woman with whom I became acquainted just this evening through a TV program -- the Body and Soul documentary. All of us, disabled and otherwise -- have lost a powerful voice for independence and integrity.
Deanna Johnson
October 1, 2009
Dear Diana, I really enjoyed being there for you when you was not able to care for Kathy, for the 17 years I was there, she became like a mother to me, calling me her daughter was the best times. I will never forget those time the good and the bad. So i say to you that if you ever need me, I will be there, just call. I will say, what I know Kathy would tell you. you doing good, keep it up. Deanna Johnson
September 29, 2009
Dear Diana, We met you, Kathy & Alice at PEC a few summers ago and enjoyed your film immensely with its strong message so powerfully presented with Alice's artistry. I was shocked of the news of Kathy's passing when I read the September newsletter just now. You were a wonderful twosome to inspire others to carry on and overcome obstacles with whatever means possible. Our hearts are with you, Diana, in the rough days ahead but keep in mind Kathy is still very much within you as your guiding force to carry on with your wonderful work advocating for those who feel less empowered. I do hope our paths cross again. Heather Horn & family (Caledon, Ontario, CANADA)
Debbie Sheppard
September 28, 2009
Diana, I met you and Kathy for the first time in Washington D.C. doing what you both did so well fighting for the rights of people with disabilities. I feel honored to have known Kathy and she will always be with you in your heart and mind. I know you will continue to do the work you and Kathy did so well as a team. From heaven Kathy will continue to be proud as you continue on with the work you both started.
I will miss Kathy, however, I plan to see you at future events.
Marcia Scherer
September 27, 2009
Thank you, Diana, for your phone call telling me the sad news of Kathy's passing. I know this leaves a big, empty spot in your life but you are so right to go on speaking and fighting for the rights of people with disabilities. I am delighted to help get the word out about the upcoming PBS broadcasts of "Body & Soul." It was such a pleasure knowing you both for the past 24 years and telling your story in my book, "Living in the State of Stuck: How Assistive Technology Impacts the Lives of People with Disabilities." I will always treasure the memories of when you and Kathy came to visit me in Rochester, NY and the fun times we had. Kathy was truly one of a kind, with her sense of humor and fortitude in the face of many obstacles. I am so sorry for your loss, but am confident your strength and big heart will bring you sunshine in the days ahead. Much love.
Penny W
September 25, 2009
I was touched by their Documentary and meeting them in Springfield (2007). My blessings to her best friend for life and family members who will cherish her memories forever. Rest in Peace...your legacy lives on...
Penny W, Chicago, IL
Greg Hurst
September 24, 2009
Dear Diana,
All of us at the animal hospital want to express our condolences on the passing of Kathy. We want you to know that we are thinking of you during this most difficult time. We appreciate how important Little George and Trouble were to Kathy, and now even more to you.
The staff at White Oaks West Animal Hospital.
Bergerons
September 24, 2009
Dear Diane,
Carrie, Tim and I all send our heartfelt love to you. We never met Kathy in person but felt like we knew her through you, Alice and the film. We have always had such admiration for you both.
Our prayers for strength and peace are with you as you go through this sad time. Kathy will always be with you in spirit as you carry on with the inspirational life you both lived together.
We shall be in touch.
Fondly,
Carrie Bergeron Desai, Tim and Peggy Bergeron
Debby Kniery
September 24, 2009
I have always been amazed at the strength and courage of Diana and Kathy. After 20 yrs. of working for them they never gave up on what they believe in. My family will miss Kathy's smile. Her sense of humor and caring way. We love you very much and will always be here for Diana. We will never forget you. God Bless
Jenny Burton
September 24, 2009
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Diana and family. I had the privilege of meeting these inspirational ladies at one of my daughter's (Lexie Burton)benefits. They came to show support and encourage me. For that I am truly greatful. God bless you Diana, rest in peace Kathy.
Jennifer Harrison
September 24, 2009
I consider it an honor to have known you. You will certainly be missed.
My deepest sympathy to Diana.
Karen Wavering
September 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
I had the privilege to meet Kathy & Diana when assisting my daughter, Susan Jennings at some of the cerebral palsy conferences & they both were such an inspiration.
My sympathy to you Diana and to the family.
Alice Elliott
September 23, 2009
Thinking of you and your spirit and humor.
As I say when I hang up, "I love you both. Good bye."
Gayle
September 23, 2009
I don't know this lady who passed on or the one long-time friend she left behind. I stand and applaud you both for your advocacy of all who has what is and has been deemed a disabilty. This beautiful lady died fighting for a true cause! I give my heartfelt sympathy to all who loved and will miss her.
Susan Jennings
September 23, 2009
In my years of working with United Cerebral Palsy of Illinois, Kathy and Diana were a tremendous inspiration. Both Diana and Kathy were strong advocates. I am so sorry for you loss, Diana. Stay strong and keep on advocating! God Bless!
Karla Turley
September 23, 2009
Diana
Sorry to hear about Kathy, she was a sweet person. I'm so glad to of had the opportunity to meet her while I worked at The Council on Developmental Disabilites. God Bless!
September 23, 2009
Kathy will surely be missed. She was a strong advocate with a positive attitude for helping people with developmental disabilities. I am so glad I got to meet her and Diana when working with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities.
God Bless!
Val Elzy (Chicago, Illinois)
Jacki Neil Boss
September 23, 2009
Kathy is a true hero and inspiration to all who have the good fortune to know her. She led by example and there will be many who will follow her lead in living their lives on their own terms. She will be missed.
Jeri Frederick
September 23, 2009
Dear Diana,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I know Kathy's spirit will live with you and give you strength.
Sherry
September 23, 2009
What a strong, beautiful and giving lady Kathy was. She will continue giving in death as she did through life. Rest in peace Kathy, you are in God's arms now.
Bro. Tom Ruhmann, OMI
September 23, 2009
Kathy, you are a wonderful gift from God. The Members of the Victorious Missionaries will be keeping you and Diana in our Prayers.
Vickie Kean-Wilson
September 23, 2009
No one will ever "pat your head" again, I will miss you!
In Solidarity,
Vickie
Earl Loschen
September 23, 2009
We are all privileged to have known Kathy. Her life is an inspiration to all persons with disabilities.
Tammy
September 23, 2009
Thank you for sharing your life story with us. God Bless you, dear lady.
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