Kathleen M Drouillard

Kathleen Drouillard, a cherished beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at the age of 93 in Mokena, Illinois. Born on November 28, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, she was a woman of great faith and strength, whose life was a testament to the Catholic values she held dear. Kathleen, affectionately known as Kaye, was the beloved wife of the late Donald Drouillard, who preceded her in death in 2016. She was a dedicated and loving mother to Gary (Debbie), James (Lynne), Timothy (Kimberly), John (Deanna), and Julie (Jeff) Johnson. Her legacy of love continued through her 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Kaye's warmth extended to her siblings, as she was the dear sister of James (Peggy) Cronin.

Kaye was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Marie Cronin; sister Patricia Troschinetz; brother Charles Cronin; daughter Kathy Drouillard; and grandson Shawn Baldwin. Kaye was educated at Our Lady Mercy School, where she graduated in 1949. Her early career was marked by compassion and service as she worked at St. Vincent's Sarah Fisher Center, dedicating herself to children and women in need. She later ventured into the world of television, performing pantomime on WJBK-TV during the pioneering days of the medium. Throughout her early life, Kaye embraced various roles, including working at Cronin's Farm Market and taking on office duties at Larro Research Farms for General Mills. Kaye joined her husband, via prop plane, who was stationed in Waikiki, Hawaii and they began their life and family together. Her commitment to community service was evident through her work with the March of Dimes and her time as an Avon Representative. Her entrepreneurial spirit and love for teaching shone brightly when she became a certified ceramic teacher in 1973 and eventually opened Kaye's Ceramics, which she proudly owned until 1995. Throughout her life, Kaye’s most cherished role in life was that of being a wife, mother, aunt, grandparent, and friend. She made her house a home for all who entered.

Kaye's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She lived by the words of Jesus, "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34), and exemplified this commandment through her actions and interactions with everyone she met. Her interests were as diverse as her talents. From riding horses and ice skating in her youth to trying her hand at snow skiing and water skiing, Kaye was always up for an adventure. However, her greatest joy was found in the company of her family and friends. She was a great conversationalist, known for her meaningful dialogues that left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to engage with her. In her twilight years, she cherished reminiscing over old photographs, reading letters from days gone by, and savoring every moment with her loved ones.

Kaye Drouillard will be remembered as a loving, kind, and thoughtful woman whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will live on as a guiding light, inspiring others to lead with love and compassion. She has left a beautiful imprint on this world, and while she will be dearly missed, her spirit will continue to bless us from above.

A Visitation will be held at Elton Black and Son Funeral Home, 1233 Union Lake Rd, White Lake, MI 48386, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM; with a rosary at 4:00 PM and memory sharing starting at 6:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will be Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 9086 Hutchins Rd, White Lake, MI 48386. The family will accept guests Thursday starting at 9:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Kaye will be laid to rest with her husband at Great Lakes National Cemetery, following the Funeral Mass.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Kaye's honor to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431. https://lightways.org/make-a-donation/ or to St. Anthony's Church, 7659 W Sauk Trail, Frankfort, IL 60423. https://www.stanthonyfrankfort.com/give