Kathleen Berendt

YOUNGSTOWN - Kathleen “Kathy” Kiliany Berendt, 74, passed away Friday evening, Dec. 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Kathleen, known affectionately to many as “Kathy,” lovingly called “K-Dog” by her sons and “G-Ma” by her grandchildren, and also known to family and friends as “Kushy,” “Kashie” and “Kash2million,” was born Oct. 19, 1951, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late James J. Kiliany and Mary Virginia Carnevale Kiliany. She was proudly born and raised on the West Side of Youngstown, a place she carried in her heart throughout her life.

Kathy was a lifelong member of St. Brendan School and Church, where her faith guided her actions and shaped her commitment to serving others. She was a 1969 graduate of Ursuline High School, where she was active in school life and known for her school spirit as a member of the pep club.

She spent many years working in banking, employed by Dollar Bank and National City Bank, and also worked at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and at the Mahoning Country Club. To Kathy, bank customers were never just customers — they became friends. She had a natural gift for connecting with people, listening without judgment and quietly looking out for others.

A woman of many talents, Kathy played the piano for 14 years and loved music, especially oldies. She enjoyed time spent with friends and club outings, but most of all cherished attending her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, school activities and cultural programs, always cheering proudly from the sidelines.

Passing during the Christmas season reflected the very spirit in which Kathy lived. She had a true servant’s heart and dedicated herself to helping others through Dorothy Day House and St. Vincent de Paul, always finding ways to feed people, comfort those in need and bring joy to others. Holidays were especially dear to her, as she loved to cook, entertain and make sure everyone felt welcome, full and loved.

In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her brother, Dennis J. Kiliany.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Jeff) Rainer; her son, Daniel (Molly) Berendt ; four grandchildren, Macey, Cadence, Tyson and Kilaney; her sister, Denise (Richard) Berdelle; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and countless friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and generosity.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Brendan Church, 2800 Oakwood Ave., Youngstown.

Kathy lived her life quietly looking out for her fellow man, never seeking recognition. Her legacy is one of love, service, and compassion, and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, Kathy’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Dorothy Day House, 620 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, Ohio 44502, in her name.