Kathleen Ann Otto, of Palos Heights, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 21, 1945, and was raised in McKinley Park by her late parents, Robert and Margaret (nee Murray) Maxwell.
Kate, as she was affectionately known, grew up alongside her siblings Margaret “Peg” Clarke (Frank), Robert “Bobby” Maxwell (Katherine), and Mary Heuer (Mark). Family was always at the heart of who she was.
On May 13, 1967, Kate married David James Otto, the love of her life. They shared 49 years of marriage before David preceded her in death.
Kate was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her three children: David Otto (Angela), Traci Ulanowski (Kevin), and Sara Radejewski (Brian).
One of Kate’s greatest joys was watching her family grow. She was blessed with seven grandchildren: David Otto (Sarah), Gabrielle Misko (Peter), Joseph Otto (Grace), Jacob Ulanowski (Emily), Dean Radejewski, Cyprien Smith, and Cole Radejewski. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Sophie Otto, Owen Otto, Caden Ulanowski, and Maeve Ulanowski.
Kate’s heart extended far beyond her immediate family. She treasured the many friendships she made throughout her life and loved her friends like family. She valued the relationships she built and held onto those friendships through the years. Her friends brought her laughter, companionship, and countless special memories.
Her greatest legacy is the family she built, the friendships she cherished, and the love she gave so freely.
Visitation: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 4 to 8 p.m. at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral: Friday, September 18, 2026. Prayers and procession begin at 8:45 a.m. from the funeral home to Saint Alexander Church, 7025 W. 126th Street, Palos Heights, Illinois, for 10 a.m. Mass.
Interment: Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois (private).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pathlights (Meals on Wheels), 7808 W. College Drive, Suite 5E, Palos Heights, Illinois.
For more information, call 708-496-0200 or visit www.kaminskifamilyfuneralhomes.com.