Kathleen Ann McIlhon

Kathleen Ann McIlhon, 63, was called home to Heaven on October 7, 2025, passing unexpectedly but peacefully. A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Iles Dunn's Chapel on Grand Avenue. Funeral services will be Friday morning at 10 a.m. at St. Augustin Catholic Church on Grand Avenue with a luncheon to follow in the Parish Hall.
Kathy was born on January 3, 1962, in Des Moines, Iowa. She was the youngest of six and the long-awaited daughter born to Colleen Gustin McIlhon and Patrick McIlhon Sr. Kathy - or Kate as she was known to her siblings - grew up to be a strong and resilient woman. After graduating from Dowling Catholic High School, Kathy went on to pursue a variety of career paths. Throughout her life, she followed her curiosity wherever it led. Kathy was a radio show co-host, vet tech, zoo keeper, flight attendant, caterer and event planner, and she owned a small business with her father.
After caring for her father in his final years, Kathy discovered her true passion: offering comfort and support to others nearing the end of their lives. Kathy always wanted to serve others and was an incredible caregiver to every patient who was blessed enough to meet her. Kathy valued her time with those she cared for, especially those at Scottish Rite Park. She is now undoubtedly running into one of the numerous people she cared for and having a long catch-up.
Kathy was an incredible mother to her three children, Kylie, Claire, and Jack. She raised them to embody the same values that she herself demonstrated: empathy, compassion, respect, and - above all - service towards others. She instilled in them a love of words and an appreciation for good music, which lead to many impromptu dance sessions (sometimes against their will) and off-pitch sing-alongs. With her children beside her, Kathy weathered many storms and celebrated many accomplishments.
Kathy is preceded in death by her parents, Patrick Sr. and Colleen McIlhon, and many loving relatives. She is survived by her three children Kylie (Tyler) Caligiuri, Claire (Tate) Caligiuri, and Jack Caligiuri; her brothers, Patrick McIlhon Jr., Mike (Debbie) McIlhon, Steve (Helene) McIlhon, Kevin (Diane) McIlhon, and Mark (Cheryl) McIlhon, and fourteen nieces and nephews.
Kathy leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and connection that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. In honor of Kathy's generous spirit, the family asks that you take a moment to reach out to someone you love - just as she always did.
Memorial donations can be directed to Jack Caligiuri.
Arrangements by Iles Dunn's Chapel.
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Kathleen McIlhon, please visit our Tribute Store.