Katherine "Kathy" Joan Hakala

Katherine “Kathy” Joan (Owens) Hakala, 72, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed peacefully on September 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in 1953, William Richard and Alma Miriam Owens raised her in Weymouth, MA, Kathy grew up with a sharp mind, a quick wit, and a heart that would later make her the matriarch of her family. She was preceded in death by her parents but carried forward their legacy of love and strength in everything she did.

For 54 years, Kathy was the devoted wife and partner of David (Dave) Fredrik Hakala. Their love story began with her intelligence and beauty, which first caught Dave’s attention, but it grew into something far deeper—a lifelong commitment marked by devotion, laughter, and an unwavering bond. Together, they built a home where love was the foundation, and family always came first.

Kathy is survived by her husband Dave, her children Richard William Hakala (Kathleen Clifford), Marcia Aileen Hakala (Kent Smith), Jason Fredrik Hakala, and David Nicholas Hakala (Sara Hakala) and her seven grandchildren: Ezekiel David Hakala (23), Elijah (15), Erica (14), Everett (12), Austin (12), Desmond (8), and Milo (5). She also leaves behind extended family members and friends who were touched by her love and generosity.

She was fiercely devoted to her family—always the one planning celebrations, inventing systems to keep track of every birthday and holiday, and making sure no milestone went unnoticed. She had one of the brightest minds in any room, and she used it to bring joy, creativity, and meaning to everyday life.

Kathy loved exploring the world through her imagination, often planning vacations that she and Dave might never take, but that came alive in their home through food, drink, film, and music. She delighted in sharing those experiences, making everyone feel as if they had traveled right alongside her.

Above all, Kathy cherished her role as “Nana.” She never missed an opportunity to hug her grandchildren, cheer them on, and remind them that her greatest hope was to see them grow into kind, successful, and loving people.

Her four children will carry with them the lessons she lived every day: to accept others without judgment, to love deeply, and to strive always to be the best version of themselves.

Kathy’s love for Dave remained steadfast and unconditional, enduring to her final breath and beyond. The family finds comfort in knowing that the love they shared remains unbroken, a lasting example for generations to come.

Kathy’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and spirituality. She will be missed beyond words, but her legacy will live on in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

Kathy’s celebration of life will be held Thursday, September 25 at 12:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan - Washington Park North Funeral and Cremation, with visitation from 10:00-12:00 p.m.. In lieu of flowers the family asks to donate to The Kidney Foundation.