Kathy L. Chrismer

PAXTON - Dr. Kathy Chrismer, 67, of Paxton, formerly of Syracuse NY, died peacefully on December 16, 2023, in Worcester, MA.

She leaves behind her longtime partner Stephen Crowe of Paxton; brother David Chrismer (Lori) of Johns Creek GA; sister Karen Hogan (Tim) of Liverpool NY; nieces Natalie Overton (Chris) of Charlotte NC and Margo Chrismer of Nashville TN; nephews John Hogan of Syracuse NY and Ben Hogan of Liverpool NY; grand niece Avery Overton; and longtime friend and colleague Brenda McHugh (David DeGrand) of Grafton MA.

Kathy graduated from Nottingham High School where she was part of the Jazz and Symphonic Band playing saxophone. She studied biochemistry at Smith College and then went on to earn her medical degree at the University of Rochester and completed her pediatric residency at Strong Memorial Hospital. Kathy returned to Massachusetts, joining the Fallon Clinic pediatric practice in Auburn and later Holden Pediatrics. She was beloved by her patients and well respected by her peers.

An animal lover, Kathy cherished the dogs in her life: “T”; Miso; Josie; Baxter; Buddy; Mabel and Daisy. Anywhere Kathy went, most likely her dogs were with her. She also loved horses and as an avid rider, she owned her horse, Jazz.

Kathy could almost always be found outdoors in her spare time, whether it was hiking, vegetable gardening, skiing, or walking the beach. Her travels frequently took her to Martha’s Vineyard, as well as Cape Cod and Hawaii. If she wasn’t outdoors, she was an enthusiastic cook, often canning or trying new recipes.

Kathy’s positive spin on life was evident in the nickname she chose for herself: “Crazy Aunt Kathy.”

Family and friends will gather for Calling Hours from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 6 at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greater Worcester Land Trust ( www.gwlt.org/donate ), or to Smith College ( www.smith.edu/giving ).