Kathryn “Kathy” J. Berresheim 59, of Park Ridge, formerly of Niles, passed away in the loving presence of her lifelong partner Renate Galgano, and her sisters, on April 17 at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Kathy fought a valiant 21-year battle with oral cancer. She leaves behind Renate “Red” Galgano, her beloved partner of 40 years, who never left her side. Kathy was the daughter of the late Fred and Patricia Berresheim. Surviving her are sisters Margaret “Margie” (Bolger), Carole (Kasper) and Mary Lee (Zerbicki). Kathy was a devoted Aunt to Christy Zornes, and Danny and Amy Bolger. She was blessed to be a Great Aunt to Allison, Genevieve and Gabriel.
Kathy was a resident of Niles for more than 50 years. She attended St. John Brebeuf grade school, Maine Township East High School, Parkland College and Oakton Community College. Kathy’s love extended not just to family and friends but to children everywhere. Kathy’s college degree, her career, and her passion involved early childhood education. She was a preschool director at the Children’s Campus in Chicago for 15 years. Later, she started a daycare in her childhood home. Although Kathy never had any children of her own, she loved and helped raise hundreds of children.
In May of 1999 her family, friends, classmates, parishioners from St. John Brebeuf, numerous charitable organizations, and the larger community of Niles, came together one night for a large and successful gala to raise funds for her ongoing medical expenses. It was the first of many fundraising activities. She was forever grateful for living in such a wonderful community of generous supporters.
Kathy was a fantastic baker. And although her many surgeries left her permanently unable to eat, she continued to bake and send as gifts her greatly sought after delectable desserts. She even authored a very popular cookbook which she sold at craft fairs along with her delicious home baked “Sweets n’ Treats.”
Despite her 21-year battle with cancer, Kathy remained a positive spirit much loved by all who knew her. After she lost her ability to speak, Kathy became a prolific sender of cards and an avid writer of letters. She inspired so many with her words of gratitude and love.
A large and dedicated Oncology team cared for Kathy throughout her battle with cancer. She was always grateful to Dr. Hooberman and Dr. Layland and their devoted staff for all their years of care.
On April 28, a well-attended funeral Mass was held for Kathy at St. John Brebeuf. Family and friends helped celebrate the Mass. One of the altar servers, now a young man, attended Kathy’s daycare program as a child. Former classmate Deacon Andy Beierwaltes honored her by helping to serve the Mass and delivered a heartfelt Homily. Her childhood and lifelong friend, Laurie Styrcula, gave an inspirational eulogy. Internment was at Maryhill Cemetery with a beautiful graveside ceremony.
Kathy was a supporter of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls in Chicago. She would have been blessed to hear of the many generous donations to Mercy Home in her honor.