Katherine Quick

Katherine Quick (née Regal), 78, of Chicago, peacefully passed away December 23, 2023.

Kathy was born and bred in Pittsburgh, PA – a tough “Beechview Beauty,” she often told stories of an idyllic childhood filled with mischievous brothers, loving extended family, and deep lifelong friendships.   She met her husband, Jim, in college in Washington D.C. and the two of them lived in Pittsburgh, D.C., and New York City, before finally settling in the Greater Boston Area – where Kathy spent most of her adult life.

Kathy grew roots in New England.  She and Jim had a son, Alan, and established friendships that persist today.  Kathy loved to cook, and she would bring her family and friends together in her homes, preparing delicious food and filling rooms with warmth and music.  The enticing smells of “Kate’s Kitchen” were most often accompanied by a card game called May I? and laughter and joy could be heard throughout her house. 

Kathy was a lifelong educator, working as a teacher and special education administrator throughout her career. She had an altruistic spirit and enjoyed helping others succeed.  She took deep pride in her graduating students and would keep track of them as they entered further education and “real” life.  Kathy made deep friendships as an educator that have also withstood the test of time.

Kathy loved film and she loved to read.  She enjoyed visiting new places through movies or books, and she loved to recommend new stories to her loved ones.  Eager to keep her mind occupied, every day would begin for Kathy with the New York Times crossword puzzle – as much a source of joy for Kathy as it was a tormenter – and she could not rest until the puzzle was completed (or at least circularly filed).  She was also a devotee of the game show Jeopardy – rarely missing an episode, Kathy loved to bring her family together to see if we could get ALL the answers correct as a team.  Her preferred way to watch was in a big comfy chair with a Mocha from Starbucks in hand and her husband Jim sitting nearby.

Kathy will be missed.

Katherine is survived by her loving son Alan Quick; treasured grandsons Simon and Finn; cherished brothers Raymond (Barbara) Regal and Paul (Madeline) Regal; and a host of dear friends scattered throughout the country. Katherine was preceded in death by her beloved husband James Quick (2021).

A celebration of her life is being planned for Spring or Summer of 2024.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation made in Kathy's memory to Project Hope or Reading Is Fundamental.