Friday, September 20, 2024
On April 2, 2024, devoted mother and wife, Kathleen Glennon Koball, departed from this earth, surrounded by her family. She was born on September 29, 1963, in Plattsburg, New York, to loving parents, Richard Glennon and Susan Rankin.
At a young age, Kathleen developed a fascination with the natural world and all the creatures therein. Into her adulthood, she continued to love beachcombing for sea glass and heart-shaped rocks at Mukilteo and Cama Beach and took the time to teach her children to respect animals (even spiders!) and value preserving nature.
A lifelong protector of the vulnerable, she excelled in her career helping adults with developmental disabilities live fulfilling lives through the nonprofit organization Smithwright Services. She brought warmth and sincerity to everything she did and was always first to lend a helping hand.
She was known as the "Queen of Baskets" for her skills in making artistic raffle baskets for Mukilteo School District fundraisers, the Kamiak Orchestra program, and events amongst friends. Appreciator of the little things, lover of all of God's creatures, and an eye for arts and crafts – if you knew her, you knew what it was like to have love poured into your life.
More than anything else, Kathleen wanted the people around her to be happy. She loved to laugh, listen, and even share in a friendly debate when the right mood struck. Even though she wouldn't consider herself one, she was a role model. Those seeking counsel on anything from the mediation of an argument to some gems of wisdom from someone who's been through difficult times would be sure to find a new perspective to take with them. Sometimes even a bit of compassionate pushback, if needed!
At the end of the night, she knew when to let go of the bad energy of the day and enjoy some vino and living room dancing to her 70s music. She is survived by her daughters, Lauren and Grace Koball; her husband, Dean Koball; her brothers Christian and Jay Glennon; and her aunt, Janice Thurlow.
The world has lost a beautiful soul in Kathleen, but the indelible mark of compassion she left on her loved ones will live on forever. Her memorial will take place on October 5, 2024, at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Everett. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the Camelot Society at https://camelotsociety.org/how-you-can-help
