LAKE GEORGE - Kathleen "Kay" Willigan, 77, passed away on August 28, 2019 after a brief illness.

Born July 14, 1942 in Connecticut, Kay was raised by her beloved parents, Emma and Paul Zemanek in Schenectady.

Always a compassionate and caring person, Kay worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Glens Falls Hospital where she met some lifelong friends.

After a cross-country adventure to California with her dear sister, Judy West, and their dearest friend Phyllis Akins, she returned to marry the love of her life, Edward B. Willigan, Jr.  They were married on November 13, 1965 at St. Alphonsus Church in Glens Falls, and their 47 year love affair began. They raised their four children, Trish (Dave) Stimpson, Ed (Christina) Willigan, Mike (Briana) Willigan, Casey (Rob Kelly) Willigan, in North Greenbush.

Kay was a devoted wife and mother who prioritized family and kindness above all else. She worked tirelessly to care for her family, her extended family, and those around her, all while expressing her creativity through tole painting and cake decorating. Kay's favorite times were spent with her family and friends, particularly summers on the boat on Lake George with the McCarrolls and Delaneys. Her infamous Saturday Night Dinners made everyone family and highlighted her favorite people: her nine grandchildren. She included someone's favorite meal or dessert each week, and then she'd cheat at cards or Scrabble after dinner just to "keep them on their toes." Kay was not what you'd call a traveler, but she agreed to an adventure to Ireland with her dear sister, Sally McCarroll, to meet their extended family. It was a trip she never regretted. Kay held a special place in her heart for her brother Paul Zemanek, Jr.; her sisters Judy West and Sally McCarroll were her rocks, her special people, her best friends. Kay treasured her family, but also simple pleasures: a warm chocolate chip cookie, a fun shape in a bright cloud, a particular way the mountains looked in the sun and her family is proud to say they carry that on in their lives. She also taught her children and their children that it is never about money. Life is about being kind, being honest, trusting your gut, and above all else: "having a little faith."

Kay's children would like to thank the entire ICU staff at Glens Falls Hospital for the compassionate, determined, and relentless care they provided Kay in her short time there.  Kay spent her life taking care of others and would have been honored by the care she was given while she was ill.

Friends may call upon the family from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 3rd, at Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 4th, at Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation, Aviation Road, Queensbury, with the Very Rev. Joseph Busch officiating.

Burial will follow at Pine View Cemetery, Quaker Road, Queensbury.

Condolences may be mailed to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.