Mary Kathleen Peske

Obituary

Mary Kathleen “Kathy” Peske passed peacefully on Sunday, September 27, 2026 surrounded by the family she loved so dearly, following a brief illness. Kathy was the only child of the late Raymond and Catherine Fitzpatrick and grew up in Geistown, PA.

A year after being introduced on a blind date by friends, Kathy and Thomas William Peske, Sr. were married and began a beautiful life together that spanned more than 62 years. Their home was always filled with family, friends, laughter, and love. Kathy was the devoted mother of Patricia Peske; Raymond Peske and his spouse, Ivette; Kathy Reilly and her spouse, Sean; Denise Peske; and Thomas W. Peske, Jr. and his spouse, Christel. She was a proud grandmother to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also, of course, a beloved dog Mom to many dogs over the years, including their latest furry joy, Morena.

Family was the great love of Kathy’s life, rising slightly above a good game of cards. She cherished time gathered around the table, catching up with loved ones, sharing stories, and watching together the latest holiday Hallmark movie.

Kathy was active throughout her life and, while raising five children, built an accomplished career as an executive assistant with the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and Nationwide. Even after retiring more than 20 years ago, she remained close with many of the colleagues and friends she had made along the way—a testament to the lasting connections she made wherever she went.

Kathy was a true social butterfly. She had a gift for making friends and could bring warmth and energy to any gathering. She loved line dancing and polka, but most of all she loved the music of the ’50s and ’60s. Give her a good song and she was likely to be swaying, singing, and ready to dance. Music brought her joy, and she was never shy about sharing that joy with everyone around her.

She will be remembered for her beautiful singing voice, her love of people, card playing, dancing, and her wonderfully dry sense of humor. Most of all, Kathy will be remembered for the warmth she brought into the lives of the people who knew and loved her. She had a way of making people feel welcome, making them laugh, and making ordinary moments feel special.

Her family and friends will carry that warmth and joy with them always. Kathy leaves behind a lifetime of love, countless memories, and a family who was so fortunate to call her their wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

A mass will be held at St Benedict Catholic Church in Johnstown, PA, on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 10am followed by a committal service at Richland Cemetery Mausoleum. A Celebration of Life will be held in South Pasadena, FL, at a date to be determined.

Memory wall

September 30, 2026

Forever cherishing spending every summer growing up with you. I’m so grateful to have had you apart of all of the special moments of my life. I will miss our banter during card games. It won’t be the same without you but now others have a chance of winning. We love you and miss you.

Love, Jess, Dougy, & Sadie

Jess Fisher

September 30, 2026

Mama Peske, you were deeply loved, and we will forever treasure our precious memories. Thank you for all the love and laughter you shared with us. Love always, Ivette, Ray and Lyla

Ivette Peske

Service

Donations