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Kathleen "Kass" Steinmacher (née Ward) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on June 8, 2026.
Born in Philadelphia on July 7, 1944 to Thomas and Eleanor Ward, Kass was one of six children and grew up in Southwest Philadelphia. She attended West Catholic High School for Girls and carried throughout her life the strong sense of family, loyalty, and resilience that defined her upbringing.
Kass married James F. Donovan, and together they raised three children. Following their divorce, she worked tirelessly as a single mother, always putting her family first and taking great pride in the lives her children built. Her strength, independence, and devotion to those she loved were hallmarks of her character.
In October 1992, Kass married Stephen Steinmacher, with whom she shared 33 happy years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with laughter, friendship, music, travel, and countless gatherings with family and friends. Their home was always open, welcoming, and full of life.
Those who knew Kass will remember her quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and remarkable ability to say exactly what was on her mind. She never pretended to be anyone other than herself, and people loved her for it. Whether offering advice, sharing a story, or delivering a perfectly timed one-liner, Kass made every gathering brighter.
She is survived by her husband, Stephen Steinmacher; her children, Kim Ennis (Chris), Mike Donovan, and Doug Donovan (Denise); her grandchildren, Sean Ennis (Duncan), Perry Donovan, Casey Donovan, Colin Donovan, Katherine Donovan, Liam Donovan, and Hunter Steinmacher; her great-grandsons, Colgan and Shane Ennis; her granddaughter-in-law, Brittany Ennis; her siblings, Denise, Mike, Jim, and Thomas Ward; her stepchildren, Stephen Steinmacher, Stacie Trevalino, and Heidi Steinmacher; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Ryan Ennis, and her sister, Elaine Rechner.
Kass's legacy lives on in the family she adored, the friendships she nurtured, and the laughter she brought to so many lives. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In accordance with her wishes, no funeral service will be held. A celebration of Kass's life will take place later this summer.
