Kathleen Marie O’Keefe Connolley was born on March 7, 1943, in Omaha, Nebraska, and passed peacefully on February 16, 2026.
In 1974, she married Kenneth E. Connolley, and together they moved from their hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, to Colorado to build a new life. They shared more than 50 years of marriage, partnership, and devotion to their family.
Beloved sister of James O’Keefe and Michael O’Keefe. Devoted mother of Leland Quenelle, Shawn Quenelle, Christine Connolley, and Theresa Connolley. She was a proud grandmother to Collin Quenelle, Jack Quenelle, Alex Quenelle, Anna Morris, Kelly Setzer, and Emily Quenelle, and great-grandmother to Ella Mae Setzer.
Kathleen was a beautiful, loving wife and mother. She loved to dance, and snapping her fingers whenever music played. Kathleen found peace in her garden and took pride in watching things grow. The holidays were especially dear to her, and she had a gift for making them feel special. She was the heart of every gathering and made sure traditions were kept and everyone felt welcome at the table.
Her Catholic faith anchored her life. It shaped the way she loved her family and carried her through suffering. Family and faith were everything to her.
Kathleen attended St. Joseph High School and graduated in 1961. Before retiring, she worked in Training Coordination for Unipac, now known as Nelnet.
After a long illness that slowly took much from her, her family finds comfort in believing she is now restored, free from pain, and dancing again in heaven.
There will be no public funeral service.