Kathleen Joy Lindgren

Kathleen Joy Lindgren, 59, died Sunday, November 13, at her home in Independence MO from complications due to Alzheimer’s Disease. A visitation will be held from 1-2:00 p.m. followed by a 2:00 p.m. memorial service on Saturday, November 26, at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO. Contributions may be made in Kathleen’s name to Outreach International or Community of Christ Special Ministries Mission. Kathy was born July 14, 1957, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because she was born with Down Syndrome, doctors at the time recommended that she be sent immediately to a state institution. After considerable thought and consultation, her parents decided to keep her at home, where she flourished. When she reached school age, she was enrolled in Lincoln School in Grand Rapids, at the time a private school for developmentally disabled children. After completing the educational program at Lincoln, Kathy began working in a nearby sheltered workshop. After moving to Independence in 1984, Kathy began to work in a sheltered workshop now known as JobOne. She enjoyed her work there until she decided to retire about two years ago. Sometime after moving to Independence, Kathy began living in various residential settings managed by Special Neighbors, Inc., which has recently been incorporated into the Center for Developmental Disabilities. She has enjoyed participating in Special Olympics, Camp Moja, a bowling league, and (for a time) a dulcimer club. Kathy was a member of the Special Ministries Mission of Community of Christ, where she had been active in church activities and where she had many friends. Kathy also enjoyed many friendships where she lived, at work, and in her many activities. She was known as being kind and friendly, and she had a clever sense of humor. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Alan I. Lindgren and Blanche (Harvey) Lindgren, as well as her nephew David Lindgren. Survivors include her sister, Janice Schultz (Steven) of Dunedin, FL; brothers Bruce Lindgren (Carole) of Independence and Richard Lindgren (Sherry) of Lamoni, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. The family wishes to thank the many staff members of Special Neighbors and CDD who have cared so well for Kathy’s needs and who have taken her into their hearts. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)