Kathleen "Kathy" F. Speck

Kathleen “Kathy” Frances Speck loving mother, grandmother, and sister was led into heaven on September 10, 2021 at the age of 62. She was born in York, PA, to the late Tom and Eithne (Heffernan) Hartnett on February 17, 1959, the eldest of 7 children.  

A woman of strong faith and devotion to God, Kathy was a guiding light to all lives she touched.  Excelling in all endeavors, she was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School class of 1977, where she began to develop her passion for musical theater.  She continued to pursue this field studying Technical Theatre at Clarion State College.  Kathy lived and raised her family in Arnold, PA, where she was dedicated to her community, and played a significant role in Girl Scouts of America; serving as a group leader for 24 years. She was a vital member of St. Joseph Roman Catholic Parish in New Kensington, where she sang in the choir for over 25 years and was known to be the best conversationalist, and extremely reliable. Above all, Kathy was devoted to her family especially her grandchildren, a role she cherished. If she wasn’t watching Star Trek series or reading, she could be found in the kitchen cooking heartfelt meals for her family. She will be so deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered by her most giving heart, brave humility, and warm spirit by all who knew her. 

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia R. (Joseph) Van Tine of Lower Burrell; three grandchildren, Heath, Anna, and Avery; her siblings, Elizabeth (Daniel) Cwenar, John (Bridget) Hartnett, Eithne (William) O’Mally, Patricia Hartnett, and Joseph (Carrie) Hartnett.  

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, William H. Speck in 2020, who she met in their Star Trek Fan Club; and a brother, Thomas Hartnett.  

Friends and Family will be received at ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD. 217 FREEPORT ROAD, NEW KENSINGTON on Friday, Sept. 17 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Prayers of Transfer will be held at 11:30 am followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon at St. Joseph’s Church, 1125 Leishman Avenue, New Kensington with burial to follow at Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.rossgwalker.com.

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