Kathleen Ann Sugden

Born June 12, 1942, in St. John's, Michigan, Kathy grew up in Detroit and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in education from Wayne State University. She dedicated her career to shaping young lives as an elementary school teacher in Ferndale and Haslett, Michigan, a role she filled with compassion, patience, and joy. Her love for her students and her profession left a lasting impact on countless children and families over the decades.

In retirement Kathy enjoyed reading aloud for WKAR's Radio Reading Service. She delighted in preparing and sharing meals with her "Gourmet Club" friends. She also found laughter, warmth, and deep friendship as a member of the Knitwits, a knitting group that brought her much happiness over the years.

She loved to travel. A highlight was a trip to Germany with the Haslett Community Church Choir. After completing the concert schedule, she accompanied her parents and her sister Elaine to further explore Europe.

Above all, Kathy cherished her family. She is survived by her daughters, Beth O'Brien and Heather (Terry) Stanton; grandchildren, Kyle O'Brien, Grady O'Brien, Jacob (Sydney) Wamhoff, Lucas Thompson, and Jonathan Thompson; and her treasured great-granddaughter Sophia Wamhoff. Time spent with them was the greatest joy of her life and her love for them was boundless.

Kathy is also survived by her sisters, Elaine Liska, Aneka Liska, Mary Carmany, and Tari (Ken) Gregg; as well as her niece and nephew, Wendy (Eric) Cook and Michael (Marnie) Fisk; and several great-nieces and nephew, all of whom she loved and supported with her characteristic warmth. She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Ruth Liska; her son-in-law, Brendan O'Brien; and her brother-in-law, Alan Carmany. Kathy will be remembered for her kind heart and deep devotion to her family and friends.

The Visitation will be Wednesday, August 6, 2025, between the hours of 5 PM and 7 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 E. Grand River, East Lansing, MI 48823. The Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 11 AM at the funeral home. The family will gather on Thursday to greet friends beginning at 10 AM until service.

Memorial donations in Kathleen's name may be directed to: Hospice of Lansing, WKAR, and Capital Area Humane Society.

The family would like to thank all the staff at Stoneleigh Residence for their compassionate care to our mom.