Katherine Vissman

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Katherine Vissman, age 71, of Chicago, on November 17, at Ascension Resurrection Hospital. Kathy was born June 4, 1952 to John and Doris (Hummel) Vissman and grew up in Marblehead, MA and Lake Forest, Il.

Everyone who knew Kathy knew how much she loved to laugh and her great sense of humor. She had a way of putting a smile on everyone's face. Kathy had an interesting and insightful perspective on things and was always willing to listen and empathize. We will all miss our fabulous sounding board! Kathy loved many creative outlets such as quilting, knitting and all things arts and crafts. She also loved England, Paris, art, all kinds of music, plays, musicals and was a fierce competitor at Jeopardy. She was a pillar of the Evanston community for many years whether it be as a Girl Scout leader or starting the Willard Elementary School Craft Fair, of which she was very proud. She enjoyed being a Deacon and was in the Choir at the First Congregational Church of Evanston. More than anything, Kathy loved being with family and friends.

Kathy is survived by her mother, Doris Vissman; by her daughter Rachel Schmahl and her partner Patrick McClendon and their beloved children, Jillian and Parker; her daughter Emma Schmahl; her sister Ellen Vissman and her husband Raymond Ethier. She is also survived by her lifelong friends Laura Gibson and Stephanie Donato, as well as many other dear friends. Kathy will live forever in our hearts.

Services were private and the family suggests any memorial contributions be gifted to St. Jude's Hospital, since Kathy loved donating to charity.