Kathleen M. Kocjancic 1953-2026

She was born on Dec. 4, 1953, in Wiconisco, Pa., a daughter of the late Kenneth B. Bettinger and Betty White Hidasey.

Kathleen moved with her family to the area at the tender age of 2. She graduated from Warren Western Reserve High School in 1972.

She became a cherished administrative assistant in the education department at St. Charles Elementary School, where she served for eight years. Her unwavering commitment to the church extended beyond her professional duties; Kathleen played a pivotal role in expanding the church’s soup kitchen and Martha’s Cupboard food pantry, ensuring that those in need were supported and cared for within the community.

An avid reader, Kathleen also enjoyed embarking on scenic drives to explore the beauty of covered bridges, reflecting her love for nature and adventure. Her deepest joy came from her family. Kathleen found her greatest accomplishment in raising her “five boys,” her husband and her four sons.

She is survived by her husband, Deacon Michael A. Kocjancic, whom she married July 15, 1972; her four sons, Michael H. (Mari) of Boardman, John C. (Nicole) of Canfield, Adam R. (Nicolette) of Boardman and David A. of Boardman; 10 grandchildren, Skye, Madison, Lily, Sophie, Deacon, Fiona, Foster, Rowan, Eleanor and Francesca; two sisters, Sheila (Burt) Scheel of Cortland, and Ruth Ann (John) Sweigart of Fort Pierce, Florida; and a brother, Kenneth J. Bettinger of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Friends and family are invited to gather in celebration of Kathleen’s remarkable life.

Family and friends may pay their respects from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel, 3701 Starr’s Centre Drive, Canfield, OH 44406. Prayers will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, St. Charles Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Martha’s Cupboard, St. Catherine of Siena Parish, St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Drive, Boardman, OH 44512; or the Hospice of the Valley, 979 Tibbetts Wick Road A, Girard, OH 44420.

(special notice)