Katherine E. Lechowit, 79

Katherine "Kay" Esther (Frein) Lechowit, 79, of Glendale, passed away peacefully June 2, 2003.

Kay, a philanthropist and prior business owner, dedicated endless years and resources, volunteering countless thousands of hours towards causes including, but not limited to, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Catholic Charities, Catholic Women of the Chapel, Family Services, Red Cross and USO. For years she fed the hungry and clothed many of the poorest children in Africa. In spite of a massive cerebral hemorrhage she suffered in 1990, she continued to reach people and change lives, always for the better. She and her love of mankind will be very greatly missed.

Prior to moving to Arizona in 1983, Katherine and William, her husband of 51 years, now deceased, resided in upstate New York, where they successfully owned and operated a community store. This woman truly lived her "dash" (1924-2003).

She is survived by two sons, Bill Lechowit and wife, Ramona (Dayton, Texas), John Lechowit and wife, Nancy (Tucson, Ariz.); four daughters, Lori Cortright (Glendale, Ariz.), Linda L. Connelly and husband Patrick (Glendale, Ariz.), Sandi Mueller and husband Dan (Cypress, Texas), Andrea L. Cater and husband Bill (Lakeside, Calif.); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, John Frein and wife, Flossy; three sisters, Sister Irene Frein of the Franciscan Order, Gertrude May and husband Edward, Joann Heimer; and three in-laws, Anna (Lechowit) Kapler, Marie Lechowit and Ernie Loecher; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She leaves behind one godchild, Melvin Mullenbach.

A viewing and celebration of her life will be held on June 6, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 59th Avenue and Northern, Glendale. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, June 7, at 10 a.m., at St. Raphael's Church, 55th Avenue and Acoma, Glendale.