Kathryn Ann Boles

Kathryn Ann Boles (nee Scalise), age 90, beloved wife of the late James B. Boles, devoted mother of (deceased) Lori Ann Harper (nee Boles), Lisa K. Balough (Jeffrey) and Jennifer M. Durkin (Patrick), adoring Nana to James Balough (Autumn) and Alexandra Rose Balough-Graham (Alexzandra), Jack Durkin, Catherine Durkin and Meghan Durkin, daughter of the late Anthony and Anne Scalise, sister of the late Dominic Scalise, niece of Geraldine Volpe (deceased) and Rose Citriniti (deceased), beloved aunt of Anna Weitzell (Larry), Michelle Piccirilli, Nicole Scalise, Angie Scalise and Micheal Mondello, cousin to many including Mary Ann Vernacotola and Len Santacroce, friend to many including Sue Bearer (Ted), passed away on February 20, 2025 (her husband's birthday) surrounded by family and friends.

Kathryn was born in 1934 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. She was born Catherine (with a "C") but the name was changed by the public school. She grew up taking dance and music lessons. She graduated valedictorian of her class from Our Lady of the Elms High School where she was class president and earned her varsity letter for field hockey. She went on to the University of Akron where she earned her teaching degree. In college she became a member of Delta Gamma Sorority and formed friendships that lasted over 70 years. While in college, she babysat for the Swenson's family and met Jim who was a Swenson's carhop. She taught school until marrying Jim and moved with him to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri where he was an Army officer. After two years, they returned to West Akron to raise their family. Kathryn taught second grade for many years at St. Sebastian School. She also was a wonderful Girl Scout Leader. She and Jim traveled, played bridge and enjoyed Cleveland sports. After Jim passed away in 1987, Kathryn went on to serve on the board of Camelot Condominiums, was a church receptionist and led travel groups all over the world while spoiling her grandchildren. She became a published author when her book of prayer poems, "Be Still My Love" was released. In 1993, she purchased the last ticket to the last Cleveland Indians game at Cleveland Municipal Stadium. She was then invited to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, where a ceremony was held in her honor for her donation of the ticket to the museum. She loved planning yearly reunions for her family. She was committed to volunteering for the Hospice of the Western Reserve, the Akron Blind Center, as a Delta Gamma alum and teaching Parish School of Religion classes for many years. Her family would like to thank the medical professionals at Timberland Ridge and Summa Hospice for their devoted care of Kathryn, especially Jill McLoughlin.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Hummel Funeral Home, 3475 Copley Rd, Akron, OH 44321and a Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Kathryn's life will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at St. Hilary's Catholic Church, 2750 W Market St, Fairlawn, OH 44333.  The family suggests donations may be made to Our Lady of the Elms High School.