Born on April 7, 1948, in Cleveland, OH, Kathy was the second of twelve children to the late Humbert J. and Margaret Polito (née Sullivan). She was the beloved wife of Robert 'Bob' J. Wirtz Sr., with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. Together, they lovingly raised eleven children. Kathy was also the cherished grandmother and great-grandmother of thirty-two, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.
Faith and family were the pillars of Kathy’s life. A devout Catholic, her personal motto, "Keep the Faith," resonated throughout her journey, inspiring her loved ones to trust in God's plan. Even in her final days, her unwavering trust in God remained a source of strength and guided her through. She leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, trust, and steadfast devotion to her family.
Kathy’s passion for nurturing children defined both her professional and personal life. After graduating from St. Joseph Academy, she earned a degree in elementary education from Mercyhurst College and taught at Our Lady of Angels. She later dedicated herself fully to raising her children while opening her home to provide childcare for numerous others, offering warmth, guidance, and a safe environment to all.
Kathy leaves behind her husband, Bob, and their children: Peggy Thornborough (Mike), MaryRita Rossen (John), Robert J. Wirtz Jr. (Mollie), Bert Wirtz, Theo Wirtz (Amanda), John Wirtz (Christy), Connie Rustad (Greg), Beth Ann Koz (Russell), Katie Gonzalez (Nate), Martin Wirtz (Keri), and Will Wirtz; her thirty-two grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and countless nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Liz Grosser (Larry, deceased), and her brother Anthony Polito. She is survived by her siblings, Annie Sexton (Ollie), John Polito (Vicky), Rose Polito Lewis (Pete), Humbert Polito (Barbara), Matthew Polito (Maureen), Maggie Butchko (Ron), Mark Polito, Luke Polito, and Michael Polito (Annemarie).
Kathy’s selflessness, grace, and resilience during her battle with ALS stand as a true testament to her strength and deep spirituality. She will be profoundly missed, but her love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home, 20820 Lorain Rd, Fairview Park, OH 44126. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, April 12, at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 17514 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 14609 Brookpark Rd, Brook Park, OH 44142.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests contributions to the ALS Association Northern Ohio Chapter, ATTN: Team Wirtz, 6133 Rockside Road, #301, Independence, OH 44131. Online condolences can be made at: Team Wirtz: The ALS Association Walk at https://tinyurl.com/Team-Wirtz
