Kathleen Francescon Killed in Head-On Collision on Bluff Road – Columbia, IL, October 22, 2025

On October 22, 2025, a fatal head-on collision occurred on Bluff Road near Columbia, Illinois, claiming the life of Kathleen M. “Kathy” Francescon, age 61, of the Waterloo area. According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, Francescon was traveling south when a northbound SUV attempted to pass another vehicle and collided with her car. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the SUV, a 21-year-old man from Millstadt, was treated and later released from a local hospital. No charges had been filed as of October 28, 2025.

Francescon served as the Chief Financial Officer at Friendship Village Senior Living Center in St. Louis County. She was described by family and friends as a loving mother, devoted wife, and compassionate friend, known for her kindness and hospitality. Funeral services were held at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, followed by burial at Ss. Peter & Paul Cemetery.