Katherine Arbeiter-Chovanec

Katherine (Kathy) Lee Arbeiter Chovanec passed away on January 7 at the age of 66 after struggling for over two years with ALS.  Kathy was born in Murphysboro, Illinois, on January 6, 1952, to Charles and Betty Arbeiter both of whom proceeded her in death.

 Kathy attended public schools in Granite City, Illinois, before moving to Tennessee where she earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology at Middle Tennessee State University.  Later she earned an additional graduate degree in psychology at the University of Kansas. Mrs. Chovanec devoted her life to caring for others, working in a variety of mental health facilities counseling those struggling with emotional and psychological challenges.  Kathy was known for her tenacity, her strong sense of justice, and her commitment to her clients and their well-being.  Her colleagues remember her most for her boundless energy, her carefree spirit, and palpable enthusiasm for her profession. She was also a devoted mother who consistently put the interests of her children ahead of her own.

 She is survived by her husband, Dennis Chovanec, a brother, Steven Arbeiter, daughter Jessie Blanchard and her husband Isaiah of Portland, Oregon, daughter Sarah Ordoyne and her husband Josh of Lake Charles, Louisiana, son Craig Blanchard of Austin, Texas, grandson River Ordoyne, and step-daughter Heather Ieyoub of Lake Charles, and dog Sommer.

In parting Kathy asked that as an alternative to flowers, that donations be made to the Autism Services of SWLA and Autism Society of SWLA, organizations she worked closely with and believe make a real  impact on people’s lives . Her life will continue to help others. 

To Donate or post a message about Kathy go to

Kathyslegacy.info

 The family will receive guests at Johnson Funeral Home on Saturday, January 13, 2018, from 2-5PM.  A funeral service will be held beginning at 5PM, officiated by Rev. Shayne McCoy.  Cremation following the service has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home