Kathleen Vinson

Kathleen Vinson, 76, of East Dundee, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026. Born on May 27, 1950, in Arlington Heights to the late George and Carmella Barry, she was a cherished mother to Jennifer (Timothy) Zeman and Christopher (Maureen) Vinson, and a loving grandmother to Jacob Vinson, William (Holly) Vinson, Naval Sgt. Joseph Vinson, Amanda Zeman, and Joshua Zeman. She was a caring sister to David (Christy) Barry.

In her early adulthood, Kathleen began her career as a hairstylist before becoming a dedicated stay-at-home mom and neighborhood babysitter. She later pursued her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and became a registered nurse in 1988. Kathleen served as the Director of Nursing at Chicago Reed Mental Health Center until her retirement in 2017. In her mid-70s, she met the love of her life, Stuart Van Horne.

Known for her kindness, Kathleen was a second mother to many of her children's friends, especially Dana Leon. She was passionate about participating in nonviolent protests and shared her big heart with both her dogs and her children’s pets. A devoted member of Saint Catherine’s of Siena Catholic Church, she had a deep faith and loved reading and crafting, particularly making personalized wreaths. Her favorite colors were blue and purple, and she enjoyed Diet Coke and the Beatles. Kathleen was very active on social media, often the first to like a photo or post. A proud grandmother, she supported the Navy and honored her grandsons who served.

Kathleen was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

A memorial visitation in honor of Kathleen Vinson will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 1 PM to 4 PM at Dundee Funeral Home. Private inurnment will take place at Saint Michael the Archangel Cemetery. In lieu of Flowers, donations and memory of Kathleen to the American Cancer Society at Cancer.org would be appreciated. If any flowers are ordered, please note there is an allergy to lilies.