Katherine Mary (Makraus) Lenihan

Katherine M. (Makraus) Lenihan, age 94, of Stratford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024. She lived her entire life in Stratford, surrounded by family and close friends.

Katherine cared for her ailing parents, Mary and Harry Makraus, at home for many years. She later took a job at Avco Lycoming, where she met her beloved husband, James Lenihan, Jr. Katherine and James were married on January 23, 1959, and shared 27 wonderful years together before his passing on May 17, 1986. She later worked at American Fabrics for many years before her retirement.

Katherine was predeceased by her four brothers, Gus, George, Charles, and James. She is survived by many nieces and nephews: Patricia, Elizabeth, James, Carol, Allison, Gigi, Valerie, Margaret, Michael, Susan, and Maureen, as well as many more great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Katherine was a great dancer and loved sharing stories of dancing at the Ritz Ballroom. She enjoyed road trips with her husband and antiquing expeditions with her friend Sophie, adding to her teapot collection and searching out depression glass in every color of the rainbow. Known to everyone as “Aunt Kaye,” she took great joy in spending time with her family—baking cookies, swimming in the pool, and working on her famous suntan. She always had a sense of adventure and fun. She will be remembered for her warmth, zaniness, generosity, and deep love for her family.

A private ceremony was held at the VA Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where she was laid to rest alongside her husband, James, as she wished. A gathering for family to celebrate her life and share memories followed the next day.

Aunt Kaye will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her!