MOHAWK - Kathryn L. Benes, age 56, of Mohawk, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, June 13, 2003 in her home with the comfort of her family by her side. She was born on March 21, 1947 in Herkimer, daughter of Dorothy Jane Anderson Lescynski and the late Raymond Lescynski. Raised and educated in Mohawk where she graduated with the Class of 1965. Kathryn furthered her studies by attending Syracuse University, where she received her Bachelors Degree in 1969. Upon the conferral of her Bachelors Degree she continued even further in her studies by obtaining her Masters degree at SUNY Cortland. For 29 years she was an Elementary School Teacher at the Barringer Road Elementary School, Ilion this is where she touched many lives. Kathryn was an active member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Herkimer, she also served on the Church Council and at one time she was the Financial Secretary. She was also a member of NYS Teachers Association, AARP, and Embroiderers Guild of America. Kathryn was a special person with enormous strength. She provided constant encouragement and counseling to many other cancer patients. She was hopeful during the course of the disease to remain hopeful, active, and optimistic. She fought her disease with dignity and determination. Because of her positive attitude, she was an inspiration to many other cancer survivors as well as others who knew her. Among many pleasures in life were her family, quilting and other handwork, travel, and fine music. Her life revolved around her family. She was happiest at times of family gatherings and togetherness. Kathryn proved to be a loving caring and devoted mother whose major concerns was fulfilling the needs of her loved ones. Surviving her are; her mother Jane Lescynski of Mohawk, two daughters Rachel Madison and her husband Sean of Ilion, and Rebecca Benes of Mohawk, a granddaughter Emily Rae Madison of Ilion and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. The family will be present to receive relatives and friends on Tuesday Morning from 9:00 until 10:30 am in Fenner Funeral Home, Inc. 115 Court Street, Herkimer. A funeral Service will be follow at 11:00 am in Trinity Evangelical Church, Herkimer. The Reverend Alice Moberg-Sarver will officiate. Mrs. Benes will be laid to rest in Mohawk Cemetery. The family of Kathryn asks that in lieu of floral tributes please consider donations in her memory to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, American Cancer Society or Hospice Care Inc. envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Thanks to Dr. Samir Desai, Dr, M. Stephen Piver and Dr. Robert Hammond. A special appreciation goes also goes to the nursing staff at Dr. Desais office and the wonderful care given by Hospice. The family is grateful to all those loved ones and friends who showed their love and friendship with care, compassion and assistance during this most difficult time.