The Kiwanis Club of Glendale is saddened to announce the passing of its 72nd President, Kathleen O’Hara, on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Born on May 26, 1978, she passed away at the age of 46.
Kathleen is survived by her husband, Kenneth Giananti, as well as her parents, brother, niece, and nephews. A close-knit family, they supported each other through many challenges, including Kathleen’s lifelong battle with kidney disease.
Diagnosed at 13, Kathleen faced a difficult journey with resilience and determination. At 19, she was told she would need a kidney transplant. After spending more than six months on dialysis, she received a life-saving transplant from her brother at age 21. This first kidney gave her a decade of health, during which she graduated college, earned her emergency medical technician certification, and met Kenneth, the love of her life. The couple cherished over 14 years together.
When her first transplant failed, Kathleen’s aunt stepped forward to help through a paired kidney exchange. This second transplant lasted eight years before failing as well. Despite her health struggles, Kathleen channeled her experiences into advocacy, founding The Kidney Coalition of NYC (KCNYC) in 2015. Describing her nonprofit as “a lifeline,” she created a community of hope and support for others battling kidney disease. Staffed by volunteers directly affected by the condition, KCNYC became a powerful force for change, embodying Kathleen’s unwavering mission to help others.
A dedicated community servant, Kathleen joined the Glendale Kiwanis six years ago, quickly becoming an active member and eventually the Club’s 72nd President. She organized baby showers for moms in need, packed Thanksgiving meals, and participated in community days. Before her Kiwanis tenure, she served as a lieutenant in her local volunteer ambulance corps, a role she loved for its opportunities to help others and connect with local leaders. Earlier in her career, she worked as an advocate for individuals with disabilities.
“Kathleen was a wonderful friend, a selfless leader, and an inspiration to so many,” said Kerrie Hansen, Kiwanis Club Secretary. “Her positive energy was contagious, and she made every day count. She was the light in so many lives—a true shining star.”
The Glendale Kiwanis will hold an informal memorial meeting at 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 3 at Zum Stammtisch, where members are encouraged to wear their Kiwanis pins and apparel in Kathleen’s honor.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, Jan. 5, at Hess-Miller Funeral Home, 64-19 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. The Kiwanis will gather at the funeral home at 4 p.m. to pay their respects. Funeral services will be held on Monday, Jan. 6, at 10:45 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church, 80th St. and Juniper Valley Road, Middle Village.
Condolence cards may be sent to her husband, Kenneth Giananti, at 70-34 72nd St., Glendale, NY 11385. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Kidney Coalition of NYC, continuing Kathleen’s legacy of support for those affected by kidney disease. Donations can be made at kidneycoalition.org.
