Kathleen Patterson, 77, of Cortland passed away on March 16, 2026 at the DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Center. Born on February 7, 1949 in Chicago, she was raised by her loving adoptive parents, Kathryn and Felix Prebis.

Kathleen lived a life full of curiosity, compassion, and independence. She explored many paths in her career, but found true happiness in her work as a realtor, where she took pride in helping others find not just a house, but a place to call home.

A free spirit at heart, Kathleen embraced life with an open mind and a love for learning. She had a deep interest in astrology and found great meaning in creating birth charts for those she loved. She felt deeply connected to nature and enjoyed gardening, along with researching health and wellness topics.  She had a special appreciation for crystals and believed in their ability to bring balance and healing. She especially loved the color purple, which reflected her vibrant and unique personality. Kathleen was also wonderfully creative and found joy in painting and creating, expressing herself through the things she made. One of the ways she showed her love most was through cooking, preparing delicious meals that brought comfort, warmth, and togetherness to her family.

Above all, Kathleen cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to Dennis Patterson, Scott Patterson, Jim Patterson, and Kristin (Patterson) Jordan. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Dakota, Brett, Mike, Matt, Tyler, and Emily, and a dear great-grandmother to Liam. She treasured every moment spent with her family, who were the center of her world and her greatest source of joy.

Kathleen will be remembered for her kind heart, her individuality, and her ability to see the world in her own beautiful way. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Her Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, April 11th, from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm at Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL.

To sign her online guest book, go to Butala Funeral Homes & Crematory : Sycamore, Illinois (IL)- www.butalafuneralhomes.com