Obituary of Kathleen E. MacFarlane

Kathy MacFarlane passed away at the age of 63 on Wednesday, September 15th after a brief and courageous struggle with cancer. She leaves behind her devoted husband Robert, her daughters Sara (28) and Erin (27), grandson Shawn (10) and many loving relatives and friends. Kathleen Ellen Ludwin began her life journey May 11, 1947 in Gloversville, NY. She was the eldest child of the late John Ludwin and Gladys Marlitt. Her four siblings include Susan Betor, John "Jack" Ludwin, Steven Ludwin and the late Jim Ludwin. Many would say that Kathy navigated a bumpy road in her life. At the tender age of just 18 months, she fell victim to a major stroke that would define her as a willful and strong survivor. Surprising her family and doctors, Kathy survived this ordeal and grew up strong. She went on to earn her high school diploma from Bishop Burke in Gloversville and pursued a career with the New York State Tax and Finance. It was there that she met her husband and soul mate, Robert MacFarlane. They married after a very brief courtship and created a home in Schenectady. All her life Kathleen wanted to be a nurse, however, her physical capabilities were limited. She can be quoted as saying she became "the next best thing" when she became a mother. She astounded those around her by raising two babies at once, using just one arm to lift and cuddle them. After 20 years working fulltime, she retired at the age of 40 to devote her time to her husband and children. Kathy loved those around her with a fierceness that is rarely seen in even the strongest relationships. To her family and friends she was a connecting link, the "switchboard" that communicated with everyone and held her loved ones together even when distanced by too many miles. She was an activist in the community and held her own in city council meetings to ensure that the roads of Schenectady were kept safe and that deserving people would have homes. She was never afraid to speak her mind or the consequences of being honest in situations where others kept silent. Kathy MacFarlane will be missed terribly by her surviving relatives and friends. Her family welcomes all friends to attend her memorial service at 2pm, Saturday September 18th at Trinity Baptist Church. They ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Joan Nicole Prince Home, 22 Glenview Dr., Scotia, NY 12302, where Kathy spent her final days. http://www.joannicoleprincehome.org/ In her own words, Kathy will always remain "Crazy as ever!"