Katherine Ann Shanahan

Katherine Ann Shanahan (nee Pelzman), age 103, died peacefully at her home in New Lenox on July 1, 2022. Beloved wife of the late William Shanahan. Born in Chicago on May 10, 1919, Katherine was the daughter of the late Adolph and Christina Pelzman.

Preceded in death by her loving husband of over 60 years, William Shanahan; Son, Terrence Shanahan; Siblings, Adolph, Julius, Rosella, Mary, William, John, Harold, Dorothy and Elizabeth; Grandchildren, James, Laura and Kristen; Great-grandchildren Sawyer, Naomi, Henry and Elliot.

Katherine is survived by her children, William (Judy), Patrick (Sandra), Kathleen Tarrant, Susan Skala (Henry), Martin (Christina), Timothy (Mary Lou), Gerald (Dawn), Eileen Henning (Randy), Robert (Susan), Maureen Carter (Kevin), Daniel (Sherry), Colleen Shanahan and loving daughter-in-law, Sharon Shanahan (late Terrence). Katherine is also survived by 49 grandchildren; 79 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Lovingly known as “Aunt Minnie” to numerous nieces and nephews.

Katherine and her husband William were married on September 2, 1939. They lived in Chicago until the two built a home together and moved to New Lenox in 1960, where they raised 13 children. Family meant everything to Katherine and she was always looking forward to dancing at the next wedding, holding the newest grandchild in her arms and reuniting with loved ones at the annual family picnic and Christmas party. Katherine’s wisdom and ability to recall stories, names and events from her childhood and life were remarkable and treasured by all who were blessed to know her. Katherine truly lived each day to the fullest and taught us all that love, family and faith are the most important things in life.

Funeral Mass, Thursday, July 7, 2022, 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, 19515 115th Ave. Mokena, IL 60448. Prayers at the Funeral Home, Thursday, July 7, 2022, 11:30 a.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. Burial, St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation, Wednesday, July 6, 2022, 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. For more information 708-479-1210 or www.vandenbergfuneralhome.com