Kathleen M. Chase (née Dobos), 73, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Mercy New Life Hospice after a long and brave battle with cancer.
She was born on March 25, 1952, in Lorain, OH, and had made Vermilion her home for the past 11 years after moving from Elyria.
Kathy worked alongside her husband, Steve, at TES Engineering, where she oversaw billing as a staff accountant for 27 years. Service ran in her family’s heart — her mother gave her time to others as a hospital volunteer for decades, and her sons give through their charity, Thanksgiving Heroes. She was their biggest supporter, always cheering them on and giving back in her own quiet, powerful way. Kathy could always be found seated at every event the charity held; her warmth and support encouraged everyone around her.
Kathleen was a member of the Vermilion Boat Club and cherished time spent near the water with family and friends. She enjoyed reading and creating memorable shopping experiences with her family and friends. Most of all, she loved making special memories with her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and laughter. Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition in her home. She looked forward to gathering her family around the table each week, sharing food, laughter, and love. As the years went by, those Sunday dinners grew right along with the family she adored.
She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Stephen J. Chase of Vermilion; sons Mathew (Julie) Chase of Wakeman Township, Nicholas (Leah Henes) Chase of Vermilion, and Christopher (Katie Gerbracht) Chase of Vermilion; and her beloved grandchildren Kayla, Kelsey, Korinne, and Bailie. She also leaves behind her sister, Sandra Brezinski of Vermilion.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Kathryn (née Matesich) Dobos, and her brother-in-law, Ron Brezinski.
A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Sunday, November 30th, from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Boat Club, 5416 Liberty Ave., Vermilion, OH 44089. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Memorial contributions in Kathy’s memory may be made to Thanksgiving Heroes at cleveland.thanksgivingheroes.org/donate.
Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com
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