Kathleen O' Connor -Houle

Kathleen O’Connor-Houle died on December 3, 2023, at the age of 73, following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Kathleen was born in Manchester, NH, to Joseph X. O’Connor and Alice Svea O’Connor (Anderson). Both the O’Connors and Andersons had deep roots in the area and Kathleen grew up with many cousins, in addition to her two brothers. She attended Catholic schools in Manchester, graduating from Trinity High School, and went on to attend the University of New Hampshire.

After graduation, she went to work for the City of Manchester, in the police department, eventually serving in the Chief’s office prior to her retirement. After that, she worked for the State of New Hampshire in the Motor Vehicle department for many years. Anyone interacting with Kathleen at work would have found her smart, efficient, and helpful.

Kathleen was a kind and dedicated caregiver for her mother and several of her elderly aunts. And she was known as the family historian, as she could remember details from several generations back. Even during her illness, this gift was one she retained for a long time.

Kathleen enjoyed anything related to her dual heritages of both Ireland and Sweden. She was able to travel to Ireland several times and met family who still resided in the seaside town of Dingle, County Kerry. She also kept in touch with Swedish relatives who came to the US to visit family.

Rescue dogs were her passion, and Kathleen always lived with a dog during her adult life. Lars, Reggie and Allen were just a few of the lucky animals she spoiled rotten.

Kathleen is predeceased by her father, Joseph, mother, Alice, and brother, Kerry. She was also predeceased by her husband, Roland Houle. She is survived by her brother Steven O’Connor (Ellen Koenig) of Concord and their children, Tim O’Connor (Brittany Anania), Jesse O’Connor and Elizabeth O’Connor as well as numerous cousins.

Kathleen had wonderful care provided for many years by her brother, Steven, cousin Patricia Donahue, and sister- in-law, Sandie O’Connor. Their care and attention enabled her to stay in her own home for many more years than would have been possible otherwise.

A wake and chance to visit with the family will be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 2 – 4 pm at the Durning, Bykowski and Young Funeral Home at 285 Manchester Street, Manchester, NH, with a private burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the animal welfare organization of your choice.