Kaitlyn Joy Pantano

Katie didn’t have a mean bone in her body. She was kindhearted, intelligent, funny, and beautiful inside and out. One of Katie’s greatest gifts was her natural ability to connect with dogs and children. Working as a dog caretaker and trainer, she was patient, attuned, and gentle, never meeting a dog she couldn’t calm. Children gravitated just as naturally towards her warm and playful spirit.

Katie felt most at peace being outdoors and surrounded by nature, whether it was camping, hiking, walking dogs, visiting the beach, or foraging for mushrooms. She also enjoyed thrifting, crocheting, cooking, and junk journaling. Katie was creative, talented, and generous, often gifting her loved ones with her artwork and creations that we will treasure eternally.

Katie leaves behind many loved ones including her mother Deborah, father Jerry, siblings Nick (Lauren), Aubrey, Chelsea (Dan), nephews Max and Milo and niece Selena, who all adored her, girlfriend Jessi, grandmother Lillian, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her beloved dog Forrest. Katie is preceded in death by her grandmother Mary and her soul dog Cruze.

Katie was and always will be deeply loved. Her kindness, warmth, and gentleness will live on in all of the lives she touched, and in everyone that was lucky enough to love her. We will cherish her memory forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Katie's memory to Thresholds or PAWS Chicago.

A Memorial Gathering will be held at Drake & Son Funeral Home, 5303 N Western Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60625, on September 11, 2026. Visitation begins at 11:00 am with a service following at 12:00 pm.