Marie Catherine Klem, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and nana, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on July 31, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was a daughter of the late Thomas J. and Joan E. (Kennedy) Lynch. Along with her husband, Dr. Thomas A. Klem, they made their home in Cheshire, Connecticut. Marie dedicated her life to caring for others, serving as a registered nurse at Waterbury Hospital for many years until her retirement.

A proud graduate of Temple University School of Nursing, Marie was the first in her family to graduate college, earning a Bachelor of Science degree that laid the foundation for her remarkable career in critical care nursing. Her compassion and commitment to her patients were evident in every aspect of her work, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and patients alike. Marie was not only a professional, but also a guiding light to those around her, embodying the virtues of empathy, kindness, and dedication.

Marie was an active member of the Saint Bridget of Sweden Church in Cheshire, where she found community and fellowship, reflecting her deep faith and values. Her warmth and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Marie’s family would like to thank the staff at LiveWell for their care, kindness and support.

Besides her devoted husband Thomas, Marie is survived by her three beloved children: Thomas F. Klem, Michael A. Klem, and Lisa Marie Klem. She was a proud “Nana” to Katie Klem, Tommy Klem, Ryan Klem, Grace Klem, and Abby Marie Klem. She will be remembered fondly by, Kelly Klem and Lisa Galvin. She was a cherished sister to Thomas Lynch, Michael Lynch, Jack Lynch, and Joan E. Carroll and she was predeceased by her sister, Katie Lynch and her brother Jerry Lynch. Her family, who meant the world to her, will carry her spirit in their hearts forever.

Funeral services in celebration of Marie’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 10:15 a.m. from the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 South Main Street to Saint Bridget of Sweden Church, 175 Main Street in Cheshire for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Saint Bridget Cemetery, Higgins Road in Cheshire. Family and friends may gather at the funeral home on Monday, September 14, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 (www.alz.org) or to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org) in Marie’s memory, honoring her legacy of care and compassion.