Kathleen "Kit" A. Ryan, 82, of Rockford, passed away on August 3, 2026. She was born on May 30, 1944, in Chicago, the daughter of Norman and Loretta (Killen) Ryan. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northeastern University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and later taught in the Chicago area. She married Wesley Nygren on January 15, 2005, in Chicago, and he preceded her in death on December 26, 2023.

She found great joy in traveling and celebrating holidays with those she loved. An avid reader, she was a member of the Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club book club and always looked forward to sharing stories and conversation. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she treasured the time she spent with her small faith group. Above all, she cherished time with friends, celebrating life's special moments and creating lasting memories.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia (John) Grant; niece, Dr. Lisa Grant (Dr. Paul) Hick; great nephew, Lake Hick; Wesley’s children, Margaret Zupsich, Michael Nygren, Matthew (Christina Demakopoulos) Nygren, and Jeffrey (Meghan) Nygren; grandchildren, Dylan, Taylor, Tyler, Holly, and Zach; brothers-in-law, Merlin (Millie) and Gregory (Bonnie); and special cat, Ernie. She is predeceased by her parents and husband, Wes.

The family would like to give a special thank you to OSF Hospice, especially Nurse, Gina and Kit’s caregiver, Galina.

A Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road, Rockford, IL 61107, with a visitation prior to Mass from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your charity of choice in Kit’s honor.