Kathleen Eklund Haendle

Kathleen Eklund Haendle, 74, of Camillus, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Upstate University Hospital.

Born and raised in Syracuse, Kathleen was a graduate of Solvay High School and later earned her degree from Onondaga Community College. After spending time away, she returned to the Syracuse area in the late 1970s, where she built a life centered on compassion, creativity, and service to others.

Throughout her career, Kathleen held numerous positions over the years. She served as the office manager at Eklund Systems for Business and later as the service coordinator at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Society, where her empathy and concern for others were a natural fit.

Kathleen was a gifted crafter, a talented jewelry maker, and an accomplished seamstress whose creations brought joy to many. She enjoyed participating in local craft shows and most recently shared her work at the Plowshares Craftsfair sponsored by the Syracuse Peace Council. Whether designing jewelry, sewing, or creating something by hand, she poured her heart into everything she made.

More than anything, Kathleen will be remembered for the kindness and empathy she extended to everyone she met. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, valued, and cared for. Her familiar words, “Take care of yourself,” were never spoken casually—she truly meant them and lived by that sentiment every day. Kathleen possessed a beautiful aura that drew people to her, and her warmth, compassion, and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Kathleen’s memory will be cherished by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her generosity, creativity, and unwavering kindness.

Kathleen was predeceased by her parents, Harry Eklund and Sally Crippen; and sister-in-law, Georgeen Eklund.

Surviving are her husband of 37 years, Peter; son, Robert (Jessica) Spoor; grandchildren, Zander and Lily Spoor; brothers, James and John Eklund; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To celebrate Kathleen’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A memorial service will follow at the funeral home.

Kathleen will be laid to rest in South Onondaga Cemetery, Nedrow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Society, 607 N. Seward Ave., Auburn, NY 13021.