Kathryn Lessaris

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Kathryn Lessaris, who took her final bow-unafraid and with an open heart-surrounded by her loving children on June 19, 2026 at the age of 69. A woman with extraordinary beauty, strength, and grace, she lived 69 years as a force of nature-unyielding, loving, and unforgettable.  She leaves behind a legacy as vibrant and complex as she was. 

Born on March 27, 1957 in Chicago, IL to Jeanne and Killian Schachtlie, a sibling to Chris Schachtlie and Terese McWhethy, Kathryn lived a life defined by her empathy, generosity, and devotion to others. As an alum of Central High School her community was one of her greatest passions, and she served them through her entrepreneurial spirit with her photography business, the Homestretch restaurant, the Timbers restaurant, volunteer work with Catholic Charities and much more. 

She was devoted to her family; A proud and guiding mother of two children- Katie and Drew; A doting Yiayia to George and Leonardo; A mother-in-law to Lauren and Jeffrey; A faithful member to her church community of St. Matthews and the greater community of Champaign; and a generous friend to many. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25th from 4pm-6pm at Owens Funeral Home in Champaign. Funeral service will be held on Friday, June 26th at 12:00pm at St. Matthews Catholic Church in Champaign.

Donations to St. Matthews Church, Eastern Illinois Food Bank, or Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center at Northwestern on behalf of /in memory of, Kathryn Lessaris.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathryn Lessaris, please visit our floral store.