Kathryn Lynch Obituary
Born on June 6, 1929, in Des Moines, Iowa, Kate was the cherished third child of the late Edward and Joan (Naughton) Wright.
Kate was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John (Jack) Lynch, their daughter Joannie Kish, her brother Bob Wright and sisters Rose Mary Diamond and Margaret (Peg) Conley. She is survived by her brother John Wright and her devoted children: Therese Rimkus (Brian), Laura Brackett (Dave), Fran Richards (Bill), John (Debra), Mariclare Wilson (Tyler), Kathryn Latif (Paul, deceased), Larry (Heather), and Carol Anne. Kate will be fondly remembered by her 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Kate made significant contributions both as a dedicated educator and as a successful businesswoman. While simultaneously raising her family, she devoted herself to teaching at Queen of Martyrs Catholic School and later at Mother McAuley High School. In the early 1970s, she transitioned into the real estate business alongside her husband, Jack, eventually establishing their own successful office that serviced the Brighton and Gage Park communities in Chicago, Illinois.
In 1981, Kate, Jack, and several of their children relocated to Tucson, Arizona, where Kate resumed her teaching career. At the age of 64, she retired from Blenman Elementary School, having served as a special education resource teacher. Kate, Jack, and their daughter Carol then settled in Cochise County, reveling in the natural beauty of the Arizona desert.
Following Jack's death, Kate and Carol returned briefly to Chicago before ultimately settling in Tucson where they cherished the companionship of friends and family until Kate’s passing.
Kate was known for her unwavering faith, which served as a guiding light throughout her life. She will be profoundly missed by those who had the privilege of knowing her, but her legacy of resilience and love will continue to inspire for generations to come.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
7020 W. 127th Street, Palos Heights, IL 60463
People and places connected with Kathryn
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Kathryn Lynch
Make a Donation
in Kathryn Lynch's name
How to support Kathryn's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Kathryn Lynch's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more