J. Cole Kay

Kay J. Cole, age 68, passed away at her home on Kelly❜s Corners Road on Monday, March 14, 2016.

Kay was born in Seneca Falls on February 2, 1948, a daughter of the late Harold and Elizabeth (Tillotson) Houseknecht. She graduated from Interlaken High School and had a very long career at Willard Psychiatric Center, where she worked as a therapy aide. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and a special aunt to many. Kay was a longtime and active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #463, and served in many capacities there. Kay had a soft spot in her heart for the many cats that made their way to her doorstep.

Kay is survived by her children; Don (Arlene) Welch of Savona, Lori (Karl) Westervelt of Interlaken, and Jeff Welch of Penn Yan; her grandchildren; Tanya Cratsley, Craig, Chris and Matthew Welch, Anthony and Daniel Westervelt, Jenna Welch and Caeden Cervoni; 8 great grandchildren and her siblings; Earl (Elaine) Houseknecht of Lodi, Scott (Barb) Houseknecht of Hector, Steve Houseknecht of Danby and Sharon (Bill) Manning of Romulus and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Felicia Westervelt, a great granddaughter, Savannah and by her sister, Gloria Hageman and brothers, George and Howard Houseknecht.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 18, 2016 from 3:00 to 6:00pm at the American Legion Post #463 in Ovid. It will be a time to share memories and celebrate Kay❜s colorful life! In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation in her memory to, Beverly Animal Shelter, 50 East River Street, Watelroo, NY 13165.