Kathleen Ann Lenz

Kathleen passed away on December 23rd, 2021 surrounded by her family. She was born on April 30th in Jewell, Kansas to Gerald and Loretta Cady. After moving to Beloit, Kansas and graduating from St. John’s High School, she attended St. Anthony’s School of Nursing in Hays, Kansas.

Determined to create new adventures, she enlisted in the Navy as a nurse, with duty stations in Iwakuni, Japan and Bremerton, Washington. While in Japan, she summited Mount Fuji and treated victims of the Vietnam War, both of which she spoke of as proud accomplishments.

After her naval career, she moved to Kansas City to work at the Veterans Administration Hospital where she continued to care for members of the military community. On Valentine’s Day in 1971, she met the love of her life, Richard Lenz, when they were introduced by mutual friends and family. They were married on May 20th, 1972 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, and enjoyed 49 years of wedded bliss.

Kathy retired from nursing in 1976 and began her next career as a devoted wife and mother. From 1979 to 2006, Kathy and Rich moved around the country as Rich completed construction projects. She proudly made every house a home, no matter the length of their stay. She lovingly supported her two children, Kristen and Josh, as they grew up traveling around the United States.

In 2006, Rich and Kathy settled in Overland Park, Kansas, where they stayed periodically as Rich continued to travel. As the “construction manager” Kathy oversaw the remodel of her new house and turned it into the permanent home that she had always wanted.

In 2012, Kathy’s adventure continued as she moved with Rich to South Africa. They spent three and a half years there on two different projects. They made great friends and great memories traveling around South Africa, including trips to Kruger National Park on Safari and Wine Country around Cape Town.

In 2017, Rich retired from his career in engineering. For the next four years, Kathy and Rich were inseparable as they both enjoyed the time that they had missed with each other when he was working.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Loretta Cady, and her brother Jerry Cady. She is survived by her beloved and devoted husband Rich Lenz, son Josh Lenz, daughter Kristen Cooper and her husband Chad, sisters Judith Cady, and Sara Lee, brothers John Cady, Dan Cady and wife Laura, and Dave Cady and wife Charlene. She is also survived by a large number of nieces and nephews who will always love their “Aunt Kathy,” as well as an extended Lenz family who treated her like a sister. Kathy leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity, which will be carried on by her family in her loving memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Kathleen Lenz to the Miracle of Innocence Campaign https://miracleofinnocence.kindful.com.

Masks are strongly encouraged for the service. Disposable masks will be provided.