Kathleen G. Schonauer

Kathleen had a loving marriage of 56 years to her husband James R. Schonauer. She was a loving and caring mother to identical twin daughters Erin K. Schonauer and Jamie C. Schonauer.

Not only did Kathleen devote her time to raising a family, she was a talented artist, author, poet, and educator. She worked as a dedicated educator for 45 years, teaching at the elementary school and college levels. She taught art to children for the Illinois school system, sharing creativity with the next generation. Kathleen also taught subjects such as Art Appreciation, Art History, World Mythology, and Humanities at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Illinois. Kathleen was a scholar herself earning two master’s degrees during her studies: a master’s degree in Art Education and a master’s degree in Transpersonal Studies (focus on psychology and humanities). She enjoyed sharing her knowledge with others and encouraging the craft of critical thinking. Her vibrant, positive energy, and beautiful laugh was always prevalent and inspiring to those whom she shared time with. Her energy was also healing as she was a Reiki Master and Teacher.

As a prolific award-winning artist, Kathleen worked in many mediums including collage, jewelry fabrication, ceramics, pastels, 3D design, and mixed media. She was an active member in many organizations including the Illinois Artisans Program, the Midwest Collage Society, and the National Collage Society.

Kathleen was also an author of several books including: Chicago in the Great Depression (Arcadia Publishing), Collage Your Way to Yourself (Inner Peace Press), and soon to be published A Tarot Travel Guide (Inner Peace Press). She was also an award-winning illustrator of the children's chapter book series, Harmony Meets the World (Inner Peace Press), in which she collaborated with her twin daughters who author the book series.

Kathleen is survived by her husband James R. Schonauer and daughters Erin K. Schonauer and Jamie C. Schonauer. She is also survived by her sister Tina Johnson, her brother Bill Gliva, her brother Mickey Gliva, their respective spouses, and family members.

Kathleen was a beacon of light and love. She will be missed dearly.

Haiku Poem by Kathleen G. Schonauer:

“Seek a shining star,

For the night is vastly dark...

And, nearby a path.”