Kathleen Elizabeth McDonnell

McDonnell, Kathleen Elizabeth  - Age 73, of  Waterford, passed away at her home on September 28, 2023. 

Kathy was born in Traverse City, Michigan, on August 4, 1950 to William and Evelyn Kirsch. She attended Traverse City Central High School where she excelled in sports. In her early years she was also a lifeguard in Traverse City.  She studied at Central Michigan University and became a social worker. She earned her Master's Degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. She was a former licensed Social Worker at Oakland County Health Department where she dedicated her life to those who needed counseling for drug and alcohol abuse. After retiring she became a caregiver for the elderly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Jim McDonnell and her sister Sharon Kirsch of Flint. She is survived by her brother Larry (Marty) Kirsch of Bolingbrook, IL; her nieces Suzanne (Craig) Stephens of Burton, MI, Christine (Mike) Korzetki of Wayne, MI; nephews, Noel (Michelle) Kirsch of Wayne, PA, Lance (Kathryn) Kirsch of Mount Prospect, IL; and great nieces and great nephews, Allie, Andrew, Dylan, Devin, Mike, Ewan, Emma and Bobby, all of whom she was very fond of. She also leaves behind special lifelong friends, Harriet, Pat, Sandy, Gloria and Mary Lynn. This is the group that she enjoyed softball, bowling, playing cards, snowmobiling and traveling with. 

No service will be held, but the extended family will gather at a later time to remember Kathy. Those desiring may make contributions to the South End Soup Kitchen. Arrangements are being handled by Sharp Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Rd., Grand Blanc. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.