Kathleen N. Holleran, 93, of Wooster, OH, passed away on September 3, 2026. She was born on February 3, 1933, in Pittsburgh, PA. Kathy was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend.
Kathy was known for her incredible work ethic, intelligence, tenacity, resilience and never say never attitude. She had a way of walking into a room and charming everyone. She was not shy to tell you exactly what she thought, even if you did not want to hear it. There was nothing she could not do if she put her mind to it.
Kathy taught for over 40 years at Catholic Schools in the Chicago, IL area. She loved her students and the challenge of making them better every day. Above everything else, her family was at the center of her life. She loved her children deeply and took pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also had a deep compassion for animals, especially dogs and cats.
Kathy married the love of her life, Lawrence P. Holleran, on June 1, 1957. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage until Larry passed on March 5, 2024, raising their four children and building a life filled with family, friendships, careers, and travel.
One of Kathy and Larry’s greatest passions was traveling together. Their adventures took them around the world, including Great Britain, Egypt, Israel, South Korea, Russia, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Ireland, and many other destinations. They shared a curiosity about the world and created a lifetime of memories together.
Kathy is survived by her children, Martin L. Holleran (Wendy Holleran Dewsbury), Lynn K. Holleran (Pam Borton), and Scott M. Holleran; her grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Lee (Jesse Aranda), and Nicholas; her great-grandchildren, Elena and Aidan and her cherished cat Waldo. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry, and her son, Mark M. Holleran.
A service to honor and celebrate Kathy’s life will be held in Pittsburgh, PA the weekend of November 13 & 14. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wayne County Humane Society (1161 Mechanicsburg Rd. Wooster, OH). McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting with the arrangements.
Kathy had a way of leaving an impression on people. She was smart, strong, funny, caring, and never short on an opinion. She loved deeply, laughed often, and made a difference in the lives of countless people fortunate enough to know her.
She will be deeply missed, but the lessons she taught, the wisdom she shared and the love she gave will remain with her family and friends forever. She will be so missed and is so loved. You will always be in our hearts.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
Kathy, aka Short Fry as I first knew her, would light up a room the moment she walked in. Her smile, her wicked sense of fun & adventure, that Irish twinkle in her eyes. These are the things I will remember. As well as her deep & abiding commitment to her family. I knew her thru Lynn & Pam. What a joy it was. She left the world a better place. No finer tribute to someone’s life. Rest in wonderment, Kathy Holleran. ❤️