Kathryn Olney

1955 - 2021

Kathryn L. Olney
December 9, 1955 - January 14, 2021
Kathryn passed away on January 14th at the age of 65, after a nearly four-year battle with breast cancer. She was surrounded by family at the time of her death, in the San Francisco home she had occupied for more than 30 years.

She was born in Pennsylvania to Edward Olney, a food scientist, and Marilyn Olney, a dietitian. She spent most of her childhood in Deerfield, Illinois and graduated from Deerfield High School. Shortly after receiving her degree in anthropology from Purdue University, she married Clifford J. Bell and moved to California.

Kathryn was a witty and passionate writer who devoted many years to her work in journalism, including contributions to newspapers and magazines such as the San Francisco Chronicle, Mother Jones, Parenting, More, Sierra, and many others. She volunteered and served on the Board of Directors of the Children's Book Project, to which contributions can be made in lieu of flowers (www.childrensbookproject.org/donate/).

Outside of work, Kathryn cultivated a sumptuous garden and was an ardent student of film, literature, and history. These interests helped strengthen many of her friendships and family bonds. She was a dedicated mother who sacrificed much for her children. She will be remembered for her kindness, jovial spirit, and her knack for conversation.

Kathryn is survived by her three children, her mother, her brother, two nephews, and former husband. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.