Lasting Memories

Katherine (Kate) L Chesley
Nov. 9, 1958-Oct. 25, 2024
Palo Alto, California

Katherine (Kate) L. Chesley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Palo Alto, CA, on October 25, 2024, at the age of 66, after a courageous six-year battle with metastatic breast cancer.

Born in Barre, VT, to Thomas and Mildred Chesley, Kate grew up in Rutland, VT, where she developed a love for storytelling that would shape her life. She graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1979 with a degree in journalism, later earning a master’s degree in professional communications from Clark University in 1997 and a Master of Liberal Arts from Stanford University in 2016.

Kate began her professional journey as a newspaper reporter with the New Caledonian-Record in St. Johnsbury, VT, before becoming an award-winning journalist at the Foster’s Daily Democrat in Dover, NH. In 1981, she embarked on a fulfilling 40-year career in higher education communications, starting at the University of New Hampshire. Her passion for storytelling took her to the University of Chicago in 1984, where she met her wife and life partner, Maureen Breen, in 1987.

The couple moved to Worcester, MA, in 1989, where Kate served as the Director of University Communications at Clark University. It was during this time that they adopted their daughter, Josephine. In 1998, the family relocated to California, where Kate became the associate director of University Communications at Stanford University, later serving as the editor of the Stanford Report. In 2001, they welcomed their son, Miles, and in 2016, they adopted their grandchild, Aliah.

Kate’s impact extended beyond her professional accomplishments. From 2006 to 2010, she and Maureen served as Resident Fellows at Roble Hall, creating a nurturing environment for students. Kate’s mentorship touched the lives of countless students, many of whom have shared fond memories of her guidance and support. After 23 dedicated years, Kate retired in 2021 as her health challenges increased.

In addition to her professional life, Kate was an active member of her community. She was a member of the Women on Wheels motorcycle club. Her volunteer work included supporting Palo Alto public schools, the Friends of Palo Alto Libraries, the Stanford Historical Society, and the Silicon Valley Humane Society. Upon her diagnosis, she found strength and camaraderie in the Bay Area Cancer Connections support group, where she formed lasting friendships that provided comfort in her final weeks.

Kate is survived by her wife of 37 years, Maureen Breen; her children, Josephine Breen of Redwood City, CA, and Miles Breen of Palo Alto, CA; her three grandchildren, Aliah Breen, Gabriel, and Mason Streffery; her brother, Andrew Chesley of Stockton, CA; sister-in-law Leslie Potter; niece Victoria Catanio; and nephew Ian Chesley.

Kate’s spirit, kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering strength will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In honor of her legacy, her family encourages contributions to the Bay Area Cancer Connections or NCEFT.

**Photo Credit: Linda A. Cicero, Stanford University**