Kathleen Messier

Kathleen Ann Messier, beloved wife and mother, departed this earth for eternal life on April 10, 2025. She will be greatly missed by her family; her devoted husband Paul Gerard Messier, daughter Jennifer Suzanne Messier, son-in-law Christopher Antezzo, Sr., and grandson Aadi Paul Neujahr. Kathleen also leaves behind daughter Rebecca Ann Messier, sisters Joan Janek and Margaret Frame, and brother Robert Janek.

Kathleen was born on March 6, 1947, in Chardon, Ohio to her mother, Matilda Janek, and father, Joseph Janek. She was the oldest daughter of the five children. Later the family moved to Auburn, Massachusetts, where Kathleen would meet her future husband Paul Messier, as they were next-door neighbors during childhood. After Paul graduated from college, they married on September 3, 1966, and moved to Connecticut where they began their careers and family life. Kathleen and Paul lived in Bethel and New Milford where they raised their two daughters. Kathleen and her girls enjoyed horseback riding together and attending horse shows. Kathleen worked as a medical and legal secretary for many years, where she used her sharp organizing skills and attention to detail. She always prioritized raising her children and worked for the school system when they were young, so that she could be home with them in the summer and on holidays. Over the years, Kathleen and her family often visited her parents and other family members in the Lake Winnipesaukee area of New Hampshire, enjoying boating, July 4th fireworks, and many holiday gatherings.

After the girls were raised, Kathleen and Paul fulfilled a dream of early retirement and moved to Naples, Florida in the mid-1990s, where they could pursue their love of playing tennis. They lived in the beautiful Grey Oaks community, played tennis often, and relaxed in the warm weather of Naples. Kathleen loved to read historical romance novels and sit by the pool. After a few severe hurricanes, the couple decided to move further inland to Columbia, South Carolina for a second retirement experience.



In 2018, Kathleen and Paul moved back to Connecticut, where they found a lovely home in the Hillcrest Retirement Community in Montville. One of the favorite features of Kathleen's life from Naples to Connecticut was the presence of her diabetic service dog, a small grey poodle named Hallie, who lived by her side for twelve years. In December of 2023, after experiencing some health issues, Kathleen and her husband Paul moved to the Maplewood Assisted Living Community in Orange, Connecticut. They found a wonderful and supportive community of caregivers and residents which Kathleen enjoyed very much. Kathleen will be greatly missed by her family and friends. A celebration of life will be announced at a future time.