Kathleen Ann Wilson of Rice Lake passed away Thursday March 28, 2024 at the age of 91. Kathy was born April 4, 1932 in Rice Lake to Helmer and Clara (Doubek) Johnson.

She graduated from Rice Lake High School in 1950 and soon worked for Cameron Law Office as a secretary. Kathy was one of the original shareholders of the Dairy State Bank, having purchased two shares of its initial public offering on the advice of her employer. She met her future husband working at Johnson Truck Bodies as a receptionist. On May 29,1954, Kathy married Vernon Wilson at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rice Lake. They soon started a family that would include three sons: Gary, Richard, and Dennis. Kathy was a lifelong and active member of her church, attending services and volunteering where she could. She was a member of Catholic Church Women, Home Community Education, Rice Lake’s Loyal Order of Moose, the Elk’s Lodge and Fortnightly Club. For a time, she was Secretary of the Democratic Party of Barron County. Kathy and Vern enjoyed spending time at their property in Minong WI and traveled often to Florida in the winter months.

She was preceded in death by her parents, by her husband Vern in 1999, and by her son Dennis in 2008. Also, by her brothers Wayne (Barb) and Robert (Mae) and sister June Johnson.

Kathy is survived by sons Gary (JoAnn) of Wales, WI and Rick (Susan) of Arbor Vitae, WI; by grandchildren Jeni (Chris) Stovern, Michael (Hillary) Wilson, Brian Wilson, Whitney (Ben) Smith, Kristi (Walker) Higgins and Emily (Jim) Koth; and by 8 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM Thursday, April 18, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, Father Isaiah Schick officiating, with interment in St. Joseph Cemetery in Rice Lake. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI is assisting and serving the family with the arrangements.

Last Update: Apr 02, 2024 1:03 pm CDT