Kathleen Patricia Needham

Kathleen Patricia Needham, loving mother of Emily, Grace, Joseph, and Megan, and dog mom to Lolli, passed away on July 23rd, 2023. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother to her four children. She was devoted to her children’s happiness and pursuits and was immensely proud of their accomplishments. She was a second mom to her children’s friends and a cherished friend to people whose lives she touched throughout Chicago, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. 

Kathleen received her BA from Loyola University Chicago, her BSN and MSN from University of Illinois Chicago, and was working toward an MBA at Temple University. She worked for 15 years as a neonatal intensive care unit nurse and loved caring for both the babies and their families in their time of need. Kathleen then transitioned to hospital administration with a focus on quality and healthcare improvement. She was passionate about improving patient care, especially for the underserved.

Kathleen maintained a childhood interest in sailing and continued taking classes on the water in Philadelphia and Atlanta. She had a fondness for adopting dogs with special needs. She enjoyed crafts and fiber arts, and she could always be found working on a new knitting or weaving project.

Kathleen was the cherished daughter of the late Marion and Patrick Needham, and the special niece of the late Jack Needham. In addition to her children, she is survived by her former husband Joseph and her siblings Kevin, Thomas, John, Mary, Jeannette and Megan. She was a loving aunt and cousin to many.

Visitation at Cooney Funeral Home, 625 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, on Thursday August 3rd, from 3-8 pm. Funeral at St. Mary Catholic Church, 794 Pearson St, Des Plaines, on Friday August 4th, 10am. Interment All Saints. In lieu of flowers, donate in Kathleen’s memory to Best Friends Animal Society or Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA) in Philadelphia.

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