Kathy Krajniak, nee Keeffe, 70, of Riverside, died on May 21, 2026. Loved by her students, Girl Scouts, and lifelong friends for her unwavering dedication and active involvement in her parish, she gave decades of selfless service to the children of her community and was profoundly devoted to her faith. As a longtime teacher, she shaped the minds and hearts of students at St. Louise de Marillac School, LaGrange Park, and the Kensington School, Highlands. She brought joy to the classroom with her class pets and created lasting memories on camping trips. Her spirit of service shone brightly through her active devotion to St. Louise de Marillac Church, St. Mary’s Church, and the St. Paul VI Parish community.
Kathy was the wife of Edward Krajniak; the mother of Sherry (Michael) Sarni and Josephine Krajniak; the sister of Michael Keeffe, Dennis (Dawn) Keeffe, Mary (Barbara Clish) Keeffe, Patrick (Pam) Keeffe and Jean (Michael) Maves; and the aunt and great-aunt of many.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, May 29 from 2 to 8 p.m. at Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 105 Herrick Road, Riverside. Interment Private at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.
Memorials appreciated to SPRED, St. Paul VI, 40 E. Burlington St., Riverside, IL 60546 or the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago, Fund Development, 20 S. Clark St., Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60603.