Kathleen Ann Kiraly

Kathleen (Cathy) Ann Kiraly, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend, peacefully passed away on Christmas Eve morning, December 24, 2023, in San Diego, CA. She was born on April 7, 1951, in Ft Riley, Kansas. Cathy's warm-hearted nature and selflessness touched the lives of all those who had the privilege to know her.  She had been dealing with a lot of pain and suffering for some time but had always kept a happy composure so you wouldn’t notice. She did not want anyone to feel sorry for her or worry. 

Cathy is survived by her loving husband Steve, Kevin (son), Jaclyn Kiraly (Kevin’s wife), Michael (son), Sommer Kiraly (Michael’s wife), Jan Winter (brother), Ron Winter (brother), Teresa Burkhauser (sister) and Leesa Clement (sister) along with numerous extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory

Cathy was an amazing person.  She was a joy to be around, sweet, kind and loving, a very personable person and got along with everyone.  One cannot speak of Cathy without mentioning her kind-hearted nature. She always put others ahead of her own needs and was a constant source of support for her loved ones. Her family knew they could count on her to lend an ear or offer help or guidance whenever needed.

Cathy will be fondly remembered for her unwavering love and devotion to her family. Her husband, Steve, was her rock constant companion throughout their journey together. Cathy's children, Kevin and Michael, were the center of her world, and she tirelessly dedicated herself to their happiness and well being.  She was the best mom they could ask for.  She cared for them deeply and put everything that she had into raising them to be the kind of sons she could always be proud of.  She supported them in everything they did from hockey, football, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, flying etc.  Kevin will miss having Cathy in the stands at his hockey games cheering her little goalie on.   She would always worry about the boys but they knew it was for good reason.  She was always telling them to try new things and to be adventurous even though they may have felt scared inside.  Cathy absolutely loved her daughters-in-law, Jaclyn and Sommer, and constantly told everyone what wonderful women they were and the tremendous additions to the boys’ lives. .Sports played a significant role in Cathy's life, providing an exciting escape that she enjoyed thoroughly. She took great pleasure in following collegiate sports, especially rooting for the Aztecs and Wildcats. Watching professional sports was also a favorite pastime for Cathy, with the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Kings holding a special place in her heart.
 
 Outside of sports, Cathy found joy in many other aspects of life.  She also fostered deep connections with friends who admired her compassionate spirit and genuine friendship. She really enjoyed her friends in her YMCA group and her Wine Club.  Her infectious laughter filled every room she walked into, leaving everyone around her feeling uplifted.  For everyone that knew Cathy, she was not afraid of talking politics with you and having a real debate.  She was a puffin and elephant lover and had a great collection of them throughout the house.   Everyone is going to miss the random texts or funny emails we get from her.

Cathy was a great wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend, and will be missed every day.   

As we grieve the loss of Cathy, let us also celebrate the beautiful memories she leaves behind. Though she may no longer be physically present with us, her love and impact will forever remain etched in our hearts.  We extend our deepest condolences to all those who had the privilege of knowing Cathy during this difficult time. May she rest in eternal peace.