Kathryn T. Hegeman, Ed. D., formerly of Eastport (Long Island), N.Y., died on August 1, 2018 at the Highland Hospital Hospice Unit in Rochester, N.Y. Kathryn and her surviving husband of 64 years, Andrew, had recently moved from Long Island to the Rochester Area to be near their daughter, Irene H. Richard, Professor of Neurology at the University of Rochester, during their declining years.
Dr. Hegeman was 85. She was born to John and Marcella Vail in New York City during the height of the Great Depression in 1932. After graduating from St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parochial School, she attended the all-merit Hunter College in NYC.
In 1954, she married Andrew, who had just been commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. After a short assignment in Washington D.C., where Andrew attended the Naval Intelligence School, they moved to the West Coast for his 4 years on Active Duty. Kathryn and Andrew then returned to the East Coast, where they raised five children, all of whom became fine, accomplished adults. They were also blessed with five wonderful grandchildren who have been a great source of pride and joy.
Among her many non-family accomplishments, Kathryn managed (while engaged as a full time teacher) to attain her Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree and a Doctorate in Education from Columbia University Teacher’s College. She had always been keenly interested in the education of the “The Gifted and Talented” and the Social Skills and Moral Development of children, and during her writing career, authored a total of 26 books on those subjects.
Although she will be missed dearly, Kathryn had an enormous, positive impact on all those who had the joy of knowing her, as well as those who have and will benefit from her dedication to the education and well-being of children.
A memorial service will be planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Maryknoll Sisters, Ascent of Safed, or a charity of your choice.