Mary Katherine Croskey

Kathy dedicated her life to education and service. She was a retired teacher with the Olathe School District, where she made a lasting impact on countless students over the years. In 1995, she was honored as Indian Trail Teacher of the Year, an achievement she cherished deeply. One of her proudest accomplishments was earning her teaching degree at the age of 40 — a testament to her determination, perseverance, and love of learning.

Above all else, Kathy was a devoted and loving mother. Some of her most treasured family memories included traveling with Emily to Rome, Florence and the Grand Canyon, adventures she spoke of often and held close to her heart. Planning vacations always brought a smile to her face.

Kathy’s fondest childhood memories were simple and full of warmth — snapping green beans with her mother and baking with her mom and grandmother. These moments shaped her love for family, tradition, and togetherness. She was a proud graduate of the University of Kansas, a milestone she carried with pride throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Helen Nasternak and her brother Joe Nasternak.She is survived by her daughter Emily, sons Steve (Cherie) and Jeff (Sara) and brother Dan Nasternak.

Services will be held on Thursday, February 5th at St. Paul Parish, located at 21650 W. 115th Terrace, Olathe, Kansas 66061. Visitation with the Rosary will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Committal services will take place at 12:15 p.m. at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, located at 12600 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas 66109.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities Food Pantry, in honor of Kathy’s lifelong commitment to caring for others.