Kathleen was called to her heavenly home on October 7, 2026, at the age of 87. She was the best friend and beloved wife of Sanford for 65 years, who preceded her in death; loving mother to Steven (Barbara), Michael (Laura), and Cheryl (Jim Wirtala); devoted grandmother of Rachel, Josh, Nick, Michele, Mike, Kayla, Caitlyn, Adam and Jennifer; great grandmother of James, Ruby, Annaleigh, Stetson, Bennett, Madison, Graham, Oliver, and Harper. Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Elroy and Ella Kossow. Kathleen is survived by her younger sister, Carla Johnson. 

Kathleen was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on December 10, 1938. She met the love of her life and future husband, Sandy, at Grebe's bakery, where they both worked. Sandy built her a beautiful home in Raymond, Wisconsin, where they raised their family and lived for 58 years. Kathleen loved to share her memories of watching Sandy walk across the rafters while he built their home using plans they found in The Milwaukee Journal.

Kathleen was a lifelong member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. She and Sandy shared a very strong faith, which they passed on to their three children. In fact, the entire family often sat in the same pew and worshipped together at St. Paul's in Muskego. Kathleen and Sandy also enjoyed serving together as members of both the vocal and bell choirs.

Kathleen and her husband traveled throughout the United States and overseas. Kathleen often recalled how they would drive their car to the end of the driveway and then decide where to go on their next adventure. Kathleen also wasn't afraid to strike out on her own. She once accompanied Sandy on a business trip to Austria where she rented a car and traveled the country while he worked. But no matter where Kathleen travelled, her favorite trips were those taken with her family. From Presque Isle to the Waupaca Chain of Lakes and from children to grandchildren to great grandchildren, she built a wealth of family memories which we will continue to talk about, laugh at, and cherish.

Kathleen and Sandy understood how to live life to the fullest, and they enjoyed their life together with their family. Her faith; her love for God, husband, and family; and her wonderful sense of humor will be missed.

Kathleen's family is hosting a Memorial Gathering on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 10 AM to 11 AM at ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, S66W14325 JANESVILLE RD, MUSKEGO, WI. Kathleen's family will be available to greet family and friends. A Memorial Service will immediately follow the gathering at 11 AM, also at St. Paul's Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Paul's Lutheran Church are appreciated.

Kathleen's family would like to extend special thanks to their family and friends for their love, care and concern. They also extend heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Tudor Oaks.