Kathy Wierschem (Kowatsch) passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on August 21, 2026 at age 73. Beloved wife of Gary for 54 years. Loving mother to Chris (Rachel), Steve (Amy) and Jenny. Proud grandmother to Isaac, Noah, Chaya, George and William Wierschem. Cherished sister-in-law of Karen and Jack, Mark and Patrice, Pat and Ruth Wierschem. Preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Evelyn Kowatsch and her parents in-law Leon and Margaret Wierschem.
Kathy was born in 1952 and grew up in Glendale, Wisconsin. She attended Saint Nicholas grade school and Messmer high school. Kathy met Gary in 1968 and they have been together ever since. They were married in 1972 and started their family in 1976. Kathy has been totally devoted to her family ever since. The family moved to Mequon in 1988, lived in Charlotte, NC for a short while and has called Grafton home since 2003.
In addition to her family, through the years, Kathy loved her succession of golden retriever companions, Kadie, Lucky, Shannon, Ellie, Sadie and most recently, Maddie, who comforted her and was by her side during her illness these past 7 months. In addition to her devotion to her family, friends and pets, Kathy loved to sew, tend to her flower beds, celebrate Christmas and travel. As empty nesters, her favorite travel destinations included New Orleans, the Riviera Maya and Mexico City, where daughter Jenny lives. Kathy loved to relax on the beach or by a pool, listen to local music and to explore the neighborhoods of Mexico City with Jenny, looking for something new to bring home.
Kathy’s cancer took the life of a beautiful, caring woman far too soon. The family would like to thank her neurology and oncology teams at Froedtert Hospital for their skill and thoughtful guidance throughout Kathy’s journey. The family would also like to thank the team at Lasata Care Center in Cedarburg for the care they provided during Kathy’s rehabilitation stays. Finally, the family extends special thanks to the skilled and caring staff at Horizon Lawlis Family Hospice, who have once again provided their excellent care to a family member in this special place.
Visitation will be held at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI on Monday, August 31 from 1:00 to 3:00p.m. in the Chapel of Chimes with a brief service and reception to follow. A private entombment will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Strain for the Brain @ https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/WI/Milwaukee/STRAINFORTHEBRAIN or Checks can be made payable to: Strain for the Brain and mailed to P.O. Box 656, Brookfield, WI 53008.
