Kathleen Ann Rose (nee Smith), 69 of Hoffman Estates, Illinois peacefully passed away surrounded by family on March 3, 2024 after a brief but tumultuous battle with bile duct cancer.  She was born to Leonard and Emily Rose Smith on September 7, 1954. After attending Fenton Community High School and working in multiple industries, she returned to school and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Management with Highest Honors from the University of Illinois Chicago in 2003. Her career in Property Management allowed her continued learning with many certifications and challenged her until her retirement in November, 2023.

Her coworkers and friends loved her quick wit and hilarious sense of humor. She was devoted to her family and cherished every moment spent with them. Her Pumpkin Pies were a staple of every holiday gathering and will be missed by everyone.

She is preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Emily Smith, her beloved husband Ralph Rose, her brother Leonard Smith, her niece Arial Taylor, and her grand daughter Kaitlyn Story.

She is survived by her children John (Mary Balfanz) Thomas, Dr. Michelle (Cary Skinner) Rose-Skinner, Tracey (Katie Burrill) Rose, and Kimberly (Patrick) Story as well as her grandchildren Jaydyn, Anna, Ryan, great-grandson Jaxson, and 13 nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sisters Beverly (Terry) Biefeld, Patricia (Michael) Taylor and brothers David (Esther) Smith and Robert (Kelly) Smith.

A Celebration of Kathy's Life and Open House will be held at the home of Kimberly Story on April 6, 2024 at 1:30 PM. There will be a short Remembrance Service at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, to donate online CLICK HERE . For information and condolences: Kolbus-May Funeral Home, (773)774-3232 or https://www.kolbusmayfh.com.