Katherine W. Martell

Katherine W. Martell, age 89, of La Crosse, WI, and formerly of Westby, WI, passed away peacefully at Riverside Transitional Care on Tuesday, July 28th, 2026. Family was at her side when she left her Earthly home. Katherine was born in La Crosse to George and Velma Harbecke. She attended Central High School and Wisconsin State College, obtaining her Rural Education Diploma.

Katherine married John Martell, also of La Crosse, on July 23rd, 1955. They began their married life in Alexandria, LA, where John was stationed with the United States Air Force. Upon returning to WI, she began her teaching career in the La Crosse area. She took a break to raise her family and returned to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant, working in long-term care in MN and WI. She spoke fondly of her CNA experiences and was very proud of her contributions in both fields.

Katherine maintained many lifelong friendships here at home, and she had extended family in Germany. One of her fondest memories was her travels to see her Father's childhood home and meet her Uncle and his family in Germany.

Over the years, she and John took many road trips, enjoying antiquing, auctions, and garage sales. Another shared pastime was their frequent card club get-togethers where they played a variety of card games with friends and family.

Katherine was most proud of her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. She was happiest at family celebrations and gatherings, where there was plenty of food, family time, and a good game of Poker.

Katherine is survived by her five Daughters: Julie (Lee) Vieregge, Jacqueline (Marvin) Jacobson, Janine Hessler, Jennifer (Mike) Thompson, and Jill Muehlenkamp; her great joy...the Grandchildren: Lucas Jacobson, Stephanie (Ryan) Miller, Mikaela (Alex) Jacobson, Dylan Hessler, Taylor (Matt) Hessler, Leatitia (Joe) Exner, Cheyenne (Jon) Knight, Bethany (Lee) Barfield, Chevy (Miranda) Knight, and Angel (Thomas) Knight; her even greater joy, the Great-Grandchildren: Lilly, Katie, Annie, and Molly Exner, Tristan Brunje, Jaxxen and Raven Hendrickson, Diesel and Axel Knight, and arriving soon Baby Miller. Katherine is also survived by her three sisters, to whom she was very close: Joyce (Paul) Wuske, Sharon (Paul) Ooten, and Phyliss (Carlyle) Mathison. There are many Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins to round out the group.

She was preceded in death by her spouse, John Martell; her parents, George and Velma Harbecke; her 1st Grandchild, Shayne Martell; a Son-in-Law, Mike Muehlenkamp, and a Brother-in-Law, Robert Ooten.

A Funeral Service for Katherine will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Crosse. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Pastor Robert Wassermann will officiate. A luncheon will follow at the church. Burial will be in the Stoddard Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff of My Choice, Riverside Transitional Care, Hearten House Memory Care, and Emplify Hospice for the generosity of their time, expertise, and compassion shown to Katherine in her journey. A special thank you to the Clergy of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Crosse. Your visits were very important to her. Lastly, Katherine's family greatly appreciates everyone reaching out, visiting, calling, and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of sending out thank you cards, they will donate to a local charity in Katherine's name at a later date.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Katherine's family.

708 S. Main St.

Westby, WI 54667

608-634-2100