Kathy Ann (Boeskin) Chanes

The world became a less fun place on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, when Kathy Chanes departed this world.  Kathy was born to Genevieve and Richard Boeskin on May 20, 1951, in Norman, Oklahoma.  She died at her home, surrounded by family and friends, who supported her on the journey of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.  Kathy fought the disease with grace, strength and independence, which was admired by all. 

Kathy attended St. Joseph’s School until high school, when her family moved to Noble.  She graduated from Noble High School and then from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in fashion merchandising.  Kathy worked at several department stores, and especially enjoyed running the fur department at John A. Brown.  She retired when she met the love of her life, Dr. Raul Chanes.  They met at the English riding hunt club in Oklahoma City where they both rode.  They married shortly after.  Raul brought life and interest and loads of adventure and fun into Kathy’s life.  He was a pilot and they traveled, Kathy’s favorite being to their home in Santa Fe, where she grew to love opera.  Upon Raul’s retirement, they packed up, horses and all, and moved to Argentina, Raul’s home country.  Later they moved to Colorado, where Kathy gave dressage lessons and opened a small tack shop and joined a hiking club.  They moved to Norman, and continued with their love of horses, and also started an online china business, specializing in Haviland china.  Along the way, Kathy developed an interest in cooking, and she delighted many with her gourmet dishes.  Raul passed away in 2010, and Kathy bought a cottage close to OU.  She took many Olli classes at OU, worked part time at the International Pantry and continued her interest in cooking and wines.  She loved OU football and had many parties around the home games.  She was a lifetime member of the OU Alumni Association.  She loved to read and spent many hours at the OU Library.  Kathy loved to travel, especially sister trips and trips with girlfriends.  Her appetizers and champagne on the front porch were favorite times for many friends and family. 

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Raul.  She is survived by stepson, Brian Chanes, his wife Jill, and son Stratton; and stepdaughter, Renee Crum, her husband Angus, daughter Sheridan, her husband Max, and their children Taylor and Bindi.  Also surviving are sisters, Suzanne Pendergraft and her husband, Bill; and Pamela Gutierrez and her husband, Mike; nephews, Roy Pendergraft and his daughters Katie, Kamden and Chesney; and Rick and Christi Pendergraft and their children, Isabella, William and Thomas; and niece, Tori Jasek and husband Luke, brought delight to Kathy. 

A poem entitled “She Who Never Gives Up” by Suzy Toronto, was written on a bookmark Kathy used in the many non-fiction books she read over the years.  It reads:

“Lemon to lemonade, this woman hangs in there.

When opportunity knocks, it sometimes knocks her down,

But she never lets it get her down for long.

Whether it be relationships, her health, or her professional life,

Her reservoir of love and faith just keeps overflowing

She is triumphant, a shining example –

A woman who truly knows the value of family, friendship,

And the gift of time.  Every day she puts aside all judgment

And shares her unconditional love.  She just never gives up!”

This poem describes Kathy and her life.  She brought light and fun into many lives.   Her energy was contagious.  She loved to party, dance, and entertain family and friends.  She was like a sister to many, always there to help or just listen, especially with a glass of champagne.  Kathy’s motto would be one by Bette Davis, “There comes a time in every woman’s life when the only thing that helps is a glass of champagne.”  And how blessed we were to have shared a glass (and always the best champagne) with Kathy.  We love you and will miss you forever, dear Kathy.

The family requests that memorial gifts be made in support of fund 34219, University General Support Fund, at the University of Oklahoma.  Checks made payable to the “OU Foundation” can be mailed to:

The University of Oklahoma Foundation

P. O. Box 258856

Oklahoma City, OK  73125-8856

405-310-4859

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