Kathleen Alice Blakeman—known as "Red" to her beloved husband, "Mom" to her sons, and "Meme" to her cherished grandchildren—left this world on March 16, 2025, likely with an eyeroll at all the fuss we made. Fiercely independent, endlessly selfless, and with just the right amount of tenacity to keep things interesting, Kathleen lived her life with quiet strength, deep love, and an unwavering commitment to her family.

Born November 20, 1952, in Syracuse, NY, Kathleen spent her life putting others before herself. She never sought attention, never asked for much, and yet gave everything she had to the people she loved. She had joy for SU basketball, ladybugs, cardinals, and her prized Lexus, complete with eyelashes! But her greatest love was her family—her husband, Gary Blakeman, who stood by her side through all of life's ups and downs; her sons, Charles (Leah) Blakeman and Daniel (Deanna) Blakeman, who always knew their mother's love was the strongest, most constant force in their lives; and, above all, her grandchildren—Owen, Issac, Mason, Caleb, Noah, Jude, and Hannah—who she loved beyond words. Being "Meme" was her proudest role, and her affection for them was boundless.

She also leaves to cherish her memory, her mother-in-law Dorothy Blakeman, and her cousin Roxanne Korrigan, both of whom she loved dearly.

Kathleen was iron-willed, practical, and much stronger than she ever gave herself credit for. She made life better simply by being there—steady, dependable, and full of love. She would want us to remember her not with sadness, but with gratitude for the time we had with her (though she would understand if we cried just a little).

A private ceremony was held to honor her life, just as she would have wanted—surrounded by family, love, and the unspoken understanding that she will always be with us.

Rest easy, Meme. You gave us everything, and we are forever grateful. Tell Uncle Keith we said "hello."