Kathleen Ann Aylward, 55, of Westwood, Kansas, passed peacefully on January 11, 2011, at home with family and friends at her side. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri, November 11, 1955 and was a lifelong area resident. Kathleen attended Notre Dame de Sion, and St. Peter’s grade schools. She graduated from Southwest High School and earned her bachelors degree in Communication Studies at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. Combining her education with her out-going, enthusiastic personality, as well as her love of working with people, she enjoyed a successful and fulfilling career in advertising, marketing and sales. In 1987 she joined her best friend and husband, Randy Barnes, at City Market Produce Co.
After many wonderful years of expanding the business together they decided to close in 2002, retire, and pursue their personal interests. Randy devoted his time as a lead advocate to the local Chapter 317 of the Vietnam Veterans Association, and Vietnam Veteran’s affairs in general. Kathleen also supported these interests and continued her support after his death. She also committed and volunteered her time and talents to supporting the Arts, as well as her lifelong passion for local, state, and national politics. She was a vast supporter to many Kansas City Art Institute initiatives and was a member of the KCAI Fireside Committee, serving as president in 2006.
In regard to politics, outside of past campaigning successes, she was very proud of working on the 2008 Obama presidential campaign. In leisure she loved playing tennis, travel, spending time with her friends, and especially long walks with her dear dog, Jack. Kathleen is predeceased by her husband, Randy, and her parents, Maurine Loftus and Judge George V. Aylward, Jr. She leaves her sisters, Ann Aylward and Beth (David) Crownover, and her stepfather, Dr. James F. Loftus. Kathleen was a very beloved wife, daughter, sister and friend. Her enthusiasm and lust for life will be very dearly missed.
Mass of The Resurrection will be offered on Friday, January 21, 2011, 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 3934 Washington St., Kansas City, Missouri. The family gives their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, family, and caregivers: Linda, Tonia, Teresa, and Keela, as well as all the wonderful nurses and staff of Crossroads Hospice whose dedication and love supported Kathleen. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the church, Catholic Charities, American Cancer Society , or a charity of the donor’s choice. Kathleen will be interned with her husband in Arlington Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
(Arrangements: Signature Funerals, 913-526-4317)