Kathleen Ann Gargiulo Bliven

Kathleen Ann Gargiulo Bliven passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Atrium Health Cabarrus Hospital (Concord, NC).

Born on Sunday, December 7, 1947 in Goshen, NY, Kathy was the second daughter of eight children to the late Joseph Gargiulo and Audrey Degan. She is predeceased by her younger brother Steven and by her beloved husband Lynn A. Bliven, a Vietnam veteran. Kathy’s parents wouldn’t allow her to marry until he returned from the War. During this time she went to nursing school and worked as a Pediatric Nurse. Later she spent many years as a Travel Agent. They married in 1968 and enjoyed 52 years together, including cooking / baking, shopping, entertaining family and friends, and traveling in their motorhome all over the country with over 20 winters spent in the Great Outdoors RV Resort in Florida. They retired to Concord, NC in 2012.

Kathy was a one-in-a-million mother, friend, and neighbor. A cherished presence in the Skybrook neighborhood, always at the pool and putting together annual outings throughout the year – Christmas, Halloween, end of school, Octoberfest and so much more. Her home was always open, she loved everyone around her, especially children. Often, you would find her sitting on the porch talking to anyone who walked by.

A member of the ‘At Saint Mark Catholic Church’ in Huntersville, NC, she was deeply devoted to her church family and friends. Her love and care for them was evident in all she did. Kathy built lasting relationships that enriched the lives of her family and friends. Her presence was a source of strength, laughter, and comfort. Kathy’s legacy of kindness and joyful spirit will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

Kathy is survived by her son, Shawn Bliven of Concord, NC, and her daughter Tracy Lynne Bliven of Arvada, CO. In addition to her children, Kathy leaves behind her brothers John ( Ann), Edward (Maureen), Joseph (Jerry), Mark , and sisters Ann Snow (Jack), Audrey Dee (Charles) and adored cousin Kathy Davis and close friend Sue Pensinger Williams and many numerous loving relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Church of God Children’s Home ( Donate — Church of God Children's Home of North Carolina ) in Kathy’s memory by supporting a cause she deeply cared about. (www.cogch.org)

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 3rd, 2025 at 11am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church located at 111 Cottage St, Middletown, NY 10940. Burial will follow the service at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held separately in Concord, NC.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Bliven family.