Kathryn "Kathy" Wiese

Kathryn "Kathy" Wiese, age 76, passed away on January 15, 2025. She was born on December 29, 1948, to the late Edwin and Jeanette (Johnson) Nelson. Kathy was a beacon of warmth and selflessness, touching the lives of all who knew her. Her passion for life and her loving nature will be remembered by the many hearts she touched throughout her journey.

A proud graduate of Rushford High School, Kathy furthered her education at Winona Secretarial School where she honed the skills that would serve her throughout her commendable career. In 1970, Kathy married the love of her life, Ernest "Ernie" C. Wiese, in Rushford, Minnesota. Kathy dedicated 24 years of service as an Executive Secretary in the United States Air Force, a role in which her meticulous nature and unwavering support left an indelible mark. She later joined Fortney Law Office, where she continued to exemplify professionalism and kindness as a legal assistant.

Kathy's interests were as rich and varied as her character. She was an avid reader and simply enjoyed spending time taking in her life in the valley, every once in a while watching the deer eat vegetables from the garden. Her love for supporting her son, David, when he was competing in the Special Olympics allowed Kathy to spend quality time with her family. Kathy also spent countless hours canning, preserving everything that Ernie grew. Kathy was grateful for being able to travel, especially all the memories and souvenirs she collected while she and Ernie were stationed in Japan.

Those who knew Kathy would describe her as loving, selfless, and passionate. She gave her all to her work, her hobbies, and, most importantly, to her family. Her legacy is one of unwavering dedication and boundless love for her son David. She and Ernie have faced the joys and challenges of giving David the best life they could and that will continue to inspire and guide us.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ernie; her son, David; step-son, Robin Virant; step-granddaughter, Brianna; her sister, Debbie (Chris) Kay; her brothers and sisters-in-law: Brenda Short, George (Pam) Wiese, Christine Wiese, Ken (Gretchen) Wiese, Barbara Manninger, and Lester (Lee Ann) Wiese; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant sister, Susan; and her brothers-in-law, John Wiese and Edwin Jr. Wiese.

In honor of Kathy, donations to the Viroqua Special Olympics are gratefully accepted.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Pastor Amanda Schultz will officiate. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., with a small break before the service. Kathy will be laid to rest at the Viroqua Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the funeral home following the service.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory in Westby is serving Kathy's family.

708 S. Main Street

Westby, WI 54667

(608) 634-2100