Kathleen Hugeback

1961 - 2023

Kathleen Ann Hugeback, born on January 20th, 1961, saw the hand of God and was welcomed into his loving arms on Sunday, September 3rd, 2023. In 2015, Kathy battled and beat breast cancer, never complaining about the chemo, radiation and surgeries that came along with it. Unfortunately, it returned in mid-2023. She was preceded in death by her brother Ronnie and is survived by her parents, Richard & Marcella Bruce; brothers Steve (Barb) Bruce, Rob (Tina) Bruce, Ken (Linda) Bruce; sister Barbie Bruce; husband Mark; mother-in-law Gloria Hugeback; father-in-law Henry Hugeback; brother-in-law Greg Hugeback; son Nick (Erin) Hugeback; daughter Melissa (Dusty) Schmidt and grandkids Rya and Eli Schmidt.

The best daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, wife, friend, mother and "Gaga" anyone could hope for or deserve. Kathy never sought or wanted to be the center of attention, instead preferring to do her best to make all those around her better, by taking a genuine interest in their lives, struggles and victories. All of us that were lucky enough to experience her kindness, joy and optimism were blessed. A woman of strong faith, Kathy lived by the greatest two commandments - loving God with all of her heart, soul & mind and loving her neighbor as herself. She never spoke an unkind word of anyone. Her calling was to be a mom, volunteer, Gaga, champion & cheerleader for those that she loved. After marrying Mark, the love of her life, she retired from a job with the US Government at the age of 24, to be a full-time Mom and homemaker, raising and forming the unique character of her two children, volunteering at their school and encouraging them at every turn of their growth. Kathy played an instrumental supporting role in the birth, growth and success of Mark's architectural firm. In 2012, she would put her skills to work once more, this time as a grandma, or "Gaga".

Kathy's "Happy Place" was Maui, but she loved to travel, near or far. Italy is a close second to Maui, driven by her love of pasta, red wine and a nice stroll down an old, medieval street. She climbed many mountains - literally and figuratively - always with a smile on her face and a "can-do" spirit that was infectious and encouraging to all around her.

A talented, but humble decorator, so many sought her advice or direction, and their homes have her fingerprints and touch that will remain for all to enjoy. Organization was one of her many strengths and it was applied to every aspect of her life. If you were lucky, a little bit of it would rub off on you. Let's just say that Kathy didn't have a "junk drawer", even though some friends would search for it.

A lover of Elvis, anything purple, a good board game and loud, crazy family gatherings, especially at Christmas, her generous hospitality knew no limits.

So, book the trip and drink the good wine!

xoxo

A funeral mass will be held at Incarnate Word Catholic Church in Chesterfield on Thursday, September 14th at 10:30 am. A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow at noon at Favazza's on the Hill.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following charities:

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation - http://www.bcrf.org

Catholic Charities of Hawaii Disaster Relief - www.catholiccharitieshawaii.org