Obituary of Katherine F. Hoogewerff

Katherine Finucane Hoogewerff (born Dec. 25, 1954), of Glastonbury, CT transitioned from her physical body on January 11, 2024, while surrounded by those who loved her, to go dance in the heavens. Kathy, tenacious and spirited throughout her life and until the end, battled breast cancer over the years yet never let the disease take from her. Kathy will be remembered for her epic moves on the dance floor, her gentle and warm presence, and her ability to welcome and love even a stranger with open arms.

Known for her fierce and unwavering love, Kathy leaves behind her five children and the joys of her life: Nick (Julie) Hoogewerff, Dave (Lauren) Hoogewerff, Chris (Gina) Hoogewerff, Emilie (Derek) Haydasz, and Ali Hoogewerff, her two cherished grandchildren, Celine and Atti, and her five siblings Amy Kuperman, Jane Tomick, Dan Finucane, Dave Finucane, and Eileen Slamin. Kathy is predeceased by her parents Dr. Richard & Lois Finucane. In addition to her immediate family, Kathy had the great honor of mentoring, loving, and supporting many students and children through her various volunteer groups and programs over the years who know and will miss her motherly love.

Kathy lived her life always fully in pursuit of connecting with others and making the world and the lives of those around her brighter. She is remembered for her infectious laugh, tender heart, and compassionate and generous soul. She gave her love freely and deeply, always sharing her gentle and caring spirit with others. Kathy seeked out any and every opportunity to enrich the lives of people around her through her steadfast commitment to volunteering and mentoring at The House of Bread, The Jubilee House, and any opportunity to mentor, teach, and support kids in her communities. Kathy received her Master’s in Education in 2008 and shared her love of reading, sarcastic wit, and love of learning with hundreds of students. Kathy left an imprint on the lives of her students and their families over the years, many of whom became dear friends of hers. When she wasn’t engrossed in a book, talking about a book, or recommending a book, Kathy enjoyed wining & dining with new and old friends, doing the weekly crossword, writing to her family, and mentoring the kiddos in her communities.

In celebration of Kathy’s remarkable yet all too short life, a funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 20th at 10am at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church in Hartford, CT. In accordance with Kathy’s wishes, colorful and festive attire is welcomed and encouraged. Following the service, the family invites you to join them for a celebration of life at noon at the Meadow Hill community club house in Glastonbury, CT, and appreciates any contributions, photos, or memories to be shared. In lieu of flowers, the family requests her memory and legacy be honored in the kind gesture you offer a stranger, the joy you feel in dancing and singing along with your favorite song, or the gift of your time to volunteer with a local program that speaks to you. Monetary donations can be made in Kathy’s name to The House of Bread in Hartford, CT. For online condolences please visit www.kathyhoog.com. (& Go Giants!)