Advocate remembered for her compassion
Kitty Molander, a popular and beloved presence in Schaumburg Township, died recently after losing a six-month battle with brain cancer.
Fondly known as Kitty --few knew her given name was Katherine -- she shunned formalities and the limelight to focus on seniors and persons with disabilities in her role as Schaumburg Township assistant director of disability services, one she held for 20 years.
She died Dec. 17, survived by her only living son, David, 32. Her oldest child, Kevin, died 13 months ago at the age of 35. A memorial in her honor will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Ahlgrim and Sons Funeral and Cremation Services, 330 W. Golf Road, Schaumburg. The Rev. Allen Eaton, senior chaplain of the Northwest Corridor Chaplaincy Services, will lead a prayer and memorial service there at 7 p.m.
Recognized for her outstanding service, especially to the communities of Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg, she received the township's "Employee of the Year Service Award" in 2005 from Supervisor Mary Wroblewski and the township's trustees.
Two years later, she received the "Senior Health Insurance Program Illinois Volunteer Coordinator of the Year Award" for her service to that program, one that provides information and assistance on Medicare.
Just last November, Kitty was the first recipient of the "Spirit of Schaumburg Township Award." The award is given to those who exemplify the mission and values of the township through a commitment to helping others, according to Gerry Bartnicke, director of disability services and a close friend to Kitty, with whom she worked for 20 years.
"Kitty and I finished each other's sentences, and people frequently mixed us up," Bartnicke said. "They couldn't differentiate our voices on the telephone, so in fun, we wore each other's nametags as a joke at one of our senior parties. The joke was on us, because nobody noticed the difference."
Wroblewski, who took the "Spirit" award to its recipient in the hospital, commented that Kitty was a special person. "I can't believe she is gone," Wroblewski said. "She would work the whole day with the township, and then plant flowers in our gardens. She always went above and beyond what is expected. She definitely exemplified the spirit and mission of our township."
Always willing to lend her expertise, Kitty was a guest speaker at each of Hoffman Estates Utility Commission's twice-a-year energy fairs, clarifying how low-income residents and seniors might qualify for energy assistance.
"Kitty dedicated her life to serve the citizens of Schaumburg Township," recalled Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod. "She had a heartfelt love and caring attitude for all humankind, and she showed it through her kind spirit and gentle persuasiveness as she addressed the needs of others. We will remember her determination and devotion to people in need. All fortunate enough to know her will sorely miss her."
In her work role, Kitty had a successful volunteer program. "She used her army of volunteers to provide in-home assistance for the homebound as well as to provide aid to staff with programs and services for the disabled," said Bartnicke. "She even pressed her two sons David and Kevin into service, as they delivered Christmas dinners to the needy."
An active member of the Schaumburg Garden Club, she put many volunteers to work tending the township gardens. "Gardening was her passion," said Bartnicke.
Mary Nagy, chairwoman of the Village of Schaumburg Sister City Association and a member of Schaumburg's Sister City Commission, said Kitty was a participant in a past health care exchange in Schaumburg County, Germany, and she hosted two German health care professionals.
"She became the American mother and dear friend to the nurses, who say they remember her wonderful laugh and her ability to organize local trips for them while they stayed with her," said Nagy. "Kitty insisted they return during Christmas to experience Christmas in America while she hosted them in her home. She touched many international friends through her involvement with the Sister City program."
Above all, it was her sense of humor and compassion that set her apart.
"She worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for the many people in her care. We will miss her dedication and caring spirit," said Bartnicke. "Kitty helped so many improve the quality of their lives through her efforts on their behalf. Even in death, she thought of others by donating her eyes to the Lions Club organization. I consider myself lucky I knew her, and I thank God for sending her to me."
Memorials in Kitty's name may be sent to the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry, One Illinois Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60169.