Kathleen M. Rishkofski

Kathleen M. Rishkofski, of Philadelphia, Havertown, Springfield and West Chester.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathleen M. Rishkofski (nee O’Neill) who left us peacefully on January 12, 2026.

Kathleen was born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia to the late John F. and Mary T. (nee McDermott) O’Neill. Beloved wife of over 50 years to Stanley A. Rishkofski, Jr.

Kathleen was a dedicated teacher for almost 40 years. Kathleen’s students, whether the young second graders at Our Lady of Angels and St. Dorothy’s or the seventh and eighth graders at Transfiguration, St. Bernadette, St. Mary Magdelene or St. Katherine of Siena, adored her. What a special gift she had in creatively keeping middle school children interested in class, especially in science. Oh, those science experiments! A shining moment for Kathleen was when she was recognized with a Pennsylvania Teacher’s Award presented to her by Governor Tom Ridge. Many stories continue to be recalled by her students to this day.

As a Baby Boomer growing up in a large Irish family, having a sense of humor was a necessity, and Kathleen did, quick with a laugh, her silliness was contagious. There was always someone around to join in or catch you in the act. Kathleen and Stan shared their love of teaching. They were partners in life, having adventures, travelling and making memories at the Jersey Shore and abroad.

Kathleen was the dear sister of: Mary Ellen Quinn (Frank), Terry Barth (John), Joanne Corey (Jim), Peggy O’Neill (the late Jack Bonner), Patti Lausch (Charlie), and John O’Neill (Mary-Agnes) and the caring sister-in-law of: Maryann (Dave) Needs, Louis (Sharon) Rishkofski, and Terry (Janice) Rishkofski. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382, followed by her Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The ALS Association, P.O. Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037, or American Macular Degeneration Foundation, P.O. Box 515, Northampton, MA 01061-0515.