Katherine "Kitty" Apostoleres

Katherine “Kitty” Apostoleres was born December 5, 1930, in New York during the Great Depression, and was the youngest of four daughters. After losing her father at the age of five, Kitty’s mother moved the family to Brooklyn, NY, where she spent her formative years.

In 1950, Kitty met Thomas Apostoleres of Trenton, NJ. The couple married in 1951 and settled in Groveville, NJ, to raise their family. During this time, Tom worked as a foreman at the Roebling Steel Mill. However, the rise of Japanese steel threatened the U.S. industry, prompting the family to explore new opportunities.

Kitty recognized the potential in the emerging Dunkin’ Donuts franchise market. In 1973 they took a bold leap of faith, sold everything and moved to Brandon, Florida, where they began a new chapter as franchise owners. Kitty and Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination turned their venture into a success.

After the tragic loss of her husband in 1976, she continued to run their successful franchise and consistently maintained the number 1 store in the South East zone in sales. Her journey as a business owner not only transformed her family's future but left a lasting legacy of courage and tenacity for all who knew her.

Kitty passed away on December 2, 2024 and is predeceased by her parents, Basil and Maria Pappas, and sisters Fifi Hoag, Stella Mamolou, and Evangeline Gaskill.

Kitty is survived by her three children, Stephanie Apostoleres, Nicholas Apostoleres (Rosalie), Kim Lohkamp (Bert) and her grandchildren; Aryn Sherman, Dorian Mathews, Megan Jonathans; Steven, Stasia, Thomas, and Niko Apostoleres, and Elayna, Lili and Emme Lohkamp. Kitty also has 19 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren along with a niece and many nephews.

Contributions in Kitty's memory may be made to John Hopkins All Children Hospital, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/all-childrens-hospital/giving/ways-to-give/financial-gifts.