Catherine Kakaley December 14, 1940 – July 16, 2026

Catherine Kakaley, a devoted educator, loving mother and grandmother, faithful friend, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on December 14, 1940, in Dearborn, Michigan, Catherine dedicated her life to serving others through education, faith, and kindness. She earned her master's degree along with an additional 30 graduate credit hours, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning and excellence in education.

Catherine began her teaching career as a Head Start teacher in the 1960s before serving for many years as an elementary school teacher in South Lyon, Michigan. Passionate about helping children succeed, she developed reading and math curriculum that helped shape the educational experiences of countless elementary students. To generations of children, she was affectionately known as "Mrs. K." More than a teacher, she was a mentor, encourager, and often a second mother to her students. She believed in every child who entered her classroom, frequently reminding them, "You are an A+."

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Catherine was deeply devoted to her church and lived her faith through service, compassion, and prayer. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she began hosting a weekly rosary prayer gathering, bringing family and friends together in faith during a time when connection was needed most. She ended many conversations with her heartfelt blessing: "God Bless."

Outside the classroom, Catherine embraced life with joy and enthusiasm. She loved tending her garden, shopping, dancing, and spending time with those she loved. She was lively, friendly, intelligent, and deeply spiritual, with a warm smile and generous heart that made everyone feel welcome. Those who knew her well will always remember one of her favorite sayings, "I'm a triple checker," a reflection of the care, diligence, and thoughtfulness she brought to everything she did.

Catherine is survived by her loving children, Karl (Jennifer) Kakaley, Kristopher Kakaley, and Lisa (Joe) Koss; her beloved granddaughters, Jessica (James) Kesler, Alyssa (Joshua) Craven, Cristina Koss, and Kendra Koss, her treasured great-granddaughter Zoe, Step great-grandchildren Karmen and Scarlett, many nieces and nephews, and Joanne (Rob) Bitonti-Hair. She also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, former colleagues, and countless students whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Karl Kakaley; her parents, Josephine and John Bitonti; her brother, Salvatore Bitonti; and her sister-in-law, Vicki Bitonti.

Catherine's legacy lives on in every student she inspired, every life she encouraged, and every act of kindness she shared. Her love of education, unwavering faith, and compassionate spirit will continue to be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at O'Brien Sullivan Funeral Home 41555 Grand River Avenue, Novi, MI 48375. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 24505 Meadowbrook Rd, Novi, MI 48375. Instate will begin at 9:30am until the time of mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit, a cause that was close to Catherine's heart.

Though she will be deeply missed, Catherine's love, wisdom, and unwavering faith remain a lasting gift to her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. God bless.