Kathleen F. Harty

Kay was a delightful, accomplished woman who embodied the spirit of Fitchburg's founding farm families. I am so grateful to have known her, to have enjoyed her hospitality and to have had numerous conversations with her. My thoughts and prayers are with you...

Dear Bobbie ( that is how I know you because that is what your mom always used). I knew your mom when I was about 8. She worked at the Nakoma school summer parks program and I went there just about everyday. We put on Snow White and she directed it. I loved her. Then in 1975, I became a kindergarten teacher at Midvale because she hired me. I used to be at Franklin. My husband had died in 72 leaving me with a 2 month old infant. I had worked part time and was ready to go back full time but hated to leave my daughter for such a long day. She allowed me to go pick up my 3 year old and bring her back to school so that she could play in the classroom while I worked. I promised that I would be available for any discussions parents wanted. So open and helpful and knowledgeable! I loved working with her! My dad was Tom Geppert and I think that you had him for a pediatrician. I wish that I could come to the visitation or memorial but I will be out of town. I visited with your mom about 10 years ago and had a lovely chat. Wish I'd seen her more often. Our barbershop quartet sang for her group and she was sooo enthusiastic and appreciative. I know how much you will miss her but I am happy that you had such a great mom. Jane Richard

Dear Bob, My prayers are with you at this time. I think I met your mother once during the Ann Haney campaign in 1986, but that would hardly have conveyed her openness and many accomplishments noted in the obituary. She must have been a tremendously supportive mother. I am sure you and your whole family will miss her greatly. Take care to remember her well. Sincerely, Mike Varda

Dear Bob, My father, Conan Edwards, became a friend of Kays' before I ever knew her. He was her supervisor for a number of years. He had a great deal of respect for your mother because whatever she did she did her best. He talked well of her quite often. I got to know Kay through the Fitchburg Senior Center. She served on the Commission on Aging for Fitchburg. She was a wonderful support and counselor to me. I will always remember visiting her and Gigi. Kay loved her family and was especially proud of you, Bob. She always mentioned you and your daughters when we visited. She is certainly a mother to be proud of. She accomplished much in her life. She was a great influence to me. May God bless you and comfort you and your family. Sue Sheets

Dear Bob: Your mother was the principal at Midvale when my daughters attended elementary school. She made it a very special school and she was a great leader and very much loved by everyone. In later years, we saw her at the Stoughton Country Club and she always asked about our daughters. Carol and Bob Olsen, and Laura Olsen and Julia Olsen Peterson.