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Kathleen "Kathy" L. (Dorler) Haines, 85, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at Terrace View LTC in Buffalo, New York.
She is survived by her sister, Mary Ellen Reiner & husband Dana; nephews, spouses, and their children, Jeremy Reiner & Melissa and daughter Emma, Christopher Reiner & Kathryn and daughter Julia, son Rhys, and Dr. Joseph Reiner & Dr. Jennifer Mailloux and son Adam; extended family and many dear friends, most notably her long-time friend Peter Jakobowski who visited often before his passing.
Daughter of the late Gerald & Louise (Schilling) Dorler, Kathy was born, raised, and educated in Dunkirk, New York. She graduated from Cardinal Mindszenty High School, Class of 1958, and went on to devote much of her life to education and helping others.
A woman of great faith, service, and compassion, Kathy entered the Sisters of St. Joseph, where she served as a nun for six years. During that time, she taught second grade at St. Mark School, Buffalo. Her time in religious teachings came to an end after she contracted tuberculosis and stepped away from teaching while she recovered from TB. Following recovery, she returned to teach at Holy Trinity Elementary School, Dunkirk. Her work with children reflected her natural patience, kindness, and love of teaching.
Kathy eventually left teaching to begin a new chapter in her life, working as a secretary for Roblin Steel in Dunkirk, then Job Corps of Cassadaga. She later returned to the field of education, where she served for 17 years as a school administrative secretary at Fredonia Central School, Fredonia NY. Her dedication, dependability, and caring nature made her a valued member of the school community.
Kathy was also deeply committed to serving others; she volunteered with the American Red Cross and gave generously of her time to help those in need.
Outside of work and volunteer service, she found great joy in the simple things in life. Kathy was an avid reader and a devoted animal lover. She especially enjoyed walking dogs and sharing her time and affection with the animals she cherished.
Kathy will be remembered for her gentle spirit, caring heart, love of animals, devotion to others, and the many lives she touched through her work and service. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will remain with all who have the privilege of knowing her.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 11AM at St. Richard of Chichester Church, 4 Bridge St., Sterling. Burial will be private per family's request.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathy's name may be made to the animal rescue or service organization of your choice, or Hospice Foundation, PO Box 590, Buffalo, NY, 14240.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, MA. online condolences may be placed at www.philbincomeaufh.com.