Funeral services and a Mass of Christian burial for Kathleen Janssen, 85, and a resident of Davenport were Aug. 25, 2010 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 2618 Boies Ave., Davenport.
Burial was in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Davenport.
Kathleen died Sunday, Aug. 22, 2010 at The Kahl Home for the Aged, Davenport. She was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing.
Kathleen Helen Janssen was born Jan. 18, 1925 in Davenport, Iowa, a daughter of George C. and Mary M. (Ebert) Janssen.
Kathleen was born and lived her life in childlike innocence. She was known throughout the Quad Cities as simply Kathleen. Her family was always amazed at the number of people who knew her when they were out in public; Kathleen knew no strangers.
She enjoyed simple things, bright colors, costume jewelry with bling and her music. She would often times share some of her favorite tunes, including "You are My Sunshine," and "Rain Rain Go Away."
She was blessed to have been born to a caring family; she was lovingly looked after by her family and extended family. Her sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Al Schaeffer, shared a special bond and relationship through their quiet and tender loving care of Kathleen. She was just part of the family, she went where they went, and always brought joy to any occasion. Al had a special friendship and gentle kindness that made Kathleen glow. She was known for lighting up any room with her beautiful smile and her twinkling eyes.
Kathleen was very comfortable in the Kahl Home, even becoming their unofficial greeter. She had a great love and respect for the Carmelite Sisters, the Kahl Home Staff, and had a special spiritual bond with Sister Constance.
Memorials can be made to the Kahl Home, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church or the Handicap Development Center.
She is survived by her sisters and a brother-in-law, Margaret and Tom Jones, Bettendorf, and Jean Schaeffer, Davenport; a sister-in-law, Margaret "Marge" Janssen, Davenport; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Dorothy Janssen, Verna Wiseman, and Marie Darby, and brothers, George Janssen and Harry Janssen. May they rest in peace.
Online remembrances and condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Kathleen’s obituary at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.
