Obituary of Kathleen M. Van Hoesen

Kathleen M. Van Hoesen (Hickey), a lifelong resident of Scotia, NY, will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose steadfast nature and deep love for her family shaped the lives of those around her. She passed away Thursday April 24, 2025. A practicing Catholic and longtime parishioner of St. Joseph's Church in Scotia, Kathy found strength and meaning through her faith. She was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Susan A. Rice, and carried her memory with her always. Kathy is survived by her daughter, Sharon M. Wagenberg (Dr. Howard Wagenberg); her granddaughter, Shelby M. Rice; her cherished brother, Thomas J. Hickey (Margaret Hickey); nephews Thomas and Timothy Hickey; and her much-anticipated great-granddaughter, Julia M. Orr, whose upcoming arrival brought her great joy and pride. Kathy dedicated 24 years of her life to working at the Schenectady Gazette, where she built lasting friendships and took pride in her role. After retiring, she continued to give back to her community through her work with the Scotia-Glenville Central School District. Her days at the school brought her genuine happiness—especially when she was greeted by the bright smiles and cheerful energy of the children, which never failed to lift her spirits. She also found joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending quiet afternoons reminiscing about the past, caring for her beloved animals (especially her cats), and being close to family. She had a strong sense of routine and comfort in the familiar, and her home was a place filled with memories, warmth, and the sound of stories told more than once but always worth hearing again. Calling hours will be Tuesday 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday 11:00 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 231 2nd St., Scotia, NY 12302. Interment will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Community Hospice in her memory: https://www.communityhospice.org/donate/