Pearl E. Kaatz

Pearl E. Kaatz

AGE: 72 • Franklin Park

Pearl E Kaatz, 72, passed away at home on Monday, Aug. 19, 2013 with her beloved Boston Terrier, Tessie, sleeping at her side. Pearl courageously fought an eleven-year battle with lung and more recently colon cancer. After undergoing surgery in 2002, Pearl endured the various chemotherapies available for lung cancer. She courageously sought experimental treatments when local physicians told her there was nothing else they could do for her. Throughout it all she remained her cheerful, optimistic self, continuing to work until the summer of 2010 when her employer's company abruptly closed. Pearl was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority; prepared taxes and PTR's for seniors. Pearl loved the theater, was an avid Mahjongg and Dominoes player. She swam with dolphins, seals and turtles and was kissed by a sea lion! White-water rafting, traveling and pets were among her passions. She traveled and cruised through the Panama canal, to Alaska, Hawaii, China, Hong Kong, throughout the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, Scandinavia, Estonia, Tallinn, Russia, the Christmas markets, Australia, New Zealand, Machu Picchu, the Galapagos, Peru, Ecuador, Spain and Bermuda. One of her favorite trips was a private barge trip through the French wine country with 11 friends. It included a balloon ride over the French countryside and dinner at a 3-star Michelin restaurant. Her zest for life never waivered, even when she had to travel with an oxygen concentrator. Nothing kept her down.

Pearl, an only child, was born and grew up in Chicago's southside, eventually moving to Joliet IL where she graduated from high school. Pearl attended the University of Miami and then migrated to San Diego and with a group of roommates began her working career. After 3 years she returned to Joliet and joined the Bell System. As a trainer she travelled all over the country designing and teaching various courses to new and experienced Ma Bell folks. When AT&T was split up Pearl came to New Jersey and eventually worked at the Corporate Education centers in Hopewell and Somerset. After an early retirement she returned to AT&T as a consultant and for seven more years she designed and prepared analytical reports. Her next position was with a financial services company; starting as receptionist and Jill of all trades, but was soon the virtual office manager. As a young adult Pearl and her friends made it through the lean years by frequenting the various officers' clubs in hopes of garnering an invitation for a meal. She took her hard earned money to Tijuana for manicures and hairdos. She was always active in various charities, served as a volunteer bartender, usher and lifeguard.

Pearl was predeceased by her mother and stepfather, Pearl (Madsen) and Tom Vinson of Joliet IL. She is survived by her cousin, Lee Erlebach of Houghton MI; her faithful dog, Tessie; her friend, Janet Lonney of Bridgewater, with whom she lived this past year and numerous friends some of whom adopted her as family. Everyone loved and admired her zest for life, her optimism and sunny smile. Some younger friends were proud to call her "Aunt" Pearl. She will be remembered for that lovely smile and for her sense of style. Her clothes, jewelry and accessories were always in perfect taste.

Services were private. Friends wishing to remember Pearl may make a donation in her honor to TLC Tender Loving Care Animal Shelter, 13016 W 151st St., Homer Glen, IL 60491, Memorial Sloan Kettering, NY or to a charity of their choice. A celebration of Pearl's life is being planned.