Kathleen Mae “Kate” Furman, 69, formerly of Litchfield, died on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in Hoffman Estates following a short illness.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 22, in Litchfield, corresponding with her wish of the spreading of her ashes on Mount Denali in Alaska, which was one of the many places she traveled to and loved.
Ms. Furman was born on Oct. 10, 1954 to the late Albert and Ethel Marie Cognat Furman. She grew up in the Chicago suburbs and in Litchfield, but also traveled extensively.
In 1975, Ms. Furman graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with a double degree in Spanish education and accounting. She would later earn a master’s degree in Tax Specialty.
Ms. Furman worked in the Carbondale area for many years for the IRS and then a local accounting firm before leaving southern Illinois for Schaumburg, where she took a job with Morrison and Morrison, a large tax accounting firm in Chicago.
While growing up, Ms. Furman participated in Girl Scouts and volunteered as a Candy Striper at the hospital. She also enjoyed canoeing in a craft she built with her father, singing and playing the guitar and flute.
Ms. Furman enjoyed cross stitch, macrame, knitting and embroidery. She had a talent for giving the best gifts and wrapping them beautifully, as well as being a great cook that enjoyed baking.
Ms. Furman was a supporter of many charities such as the Al Furman Educational Trust Fund, World Wildlife Fund and the ASPCA. For decades, she walked 60 miles or volunteered to raise money for the Susan G. Komen three day cancer walk.
In her retirement, Ms. Furman headed an IRS/AARP group to assist seniors with taxes. She was also planning a trip to Ireland.
Ms. Furman is survived by a sister, Laura Arnetta; brothers. Michael (Victoria) Furman and Andy (Bonnie) Furman, all of Litchfield; three nieces and five nephews.
