Kathleen Louise Krier, 77, of Roxbury, Kansas, passed away Sunday August 17 at KU Medical Center in Kansas City.
Kathy was born to parents Armond Newell and Ruby Newell, on August 3, 1948 on their family farm just outside of Damar, Kansas. She grew up there along with her 12 brothers and sisters until moving into Damar when she was four years old. After she graduated from Damar High School in 1966, she moved to Hays, Kansas to attend Sydney’s Beauty School.
Following her time in Hays, Kathy moved to Salina where she began working at Westinghouse (Phillips Lighting). She was an employee there for over 40 years, meeting her husband Gary at a summer company picnic, catching his attention in her bright yellow hat. They were married on May 5, 1973 in Damar, Kansas and enjoyed 52 years together. Through thick and thin, together they raised two sons, Scott Krier (Michelle Nelson) of Salina and Nick (Megan) Krier of Olathe.
In addition to her husband, she also met many of her dear, lifelong friends at Westinghouse. These special friendships carried her through the hard days of work and provided immense joy outside of it. Kathy was known to lead many celebrations for her friends at work, bringing food and decorations for a birthday or anniversary.
Kathy’s greatest passion and pride were her family and friends as well as being a part of the Salina community. Kathy enjoyed volunteering at her son’s numerous school events as they were growing up, being in the classroom every chance she could. She was also a Den Mother to both of her sons throughout their years in Scouts. They always knew that if Mom was available, she would be there and more than happy to help with anything that was needed.
Kathy’s faith led her to also donate her time to countless church events and activities, including selflessly teaching CCD classes, throughout her years.
After their boys left home, Gary and Kathy embarked on a new adventure. They returned to their childhood roots, moving back to the farm in Roxbury to enjoy the quietness and freedom of country life. They've lived there for the last 29 years.
Kathy is survived by her husband Gary, sons Scott (Michelle) and Nick (Megan), grandchildren Derek (Megan) Krier, Kelci Krier (TJ Hall), Kendall Krier, and Colin Krier, and great-grandchildren Blakesley, Charlotte, and Teighann.
Siblings and in-laws: Delores Newell, Lyla Newell, Martha and Bill Nero, Irma Laurin, Ron Dougherty, Linnea Newell, Bernard and Cynthia Newell, Theresa Thompson, and Vincent and Cindy Newell.
She was preceded in death by parents Armond and Ruby Newell, mother-in-law Kaye Krier, siblings and in-laws: Ernest Newell, Alvin and Louise Newell, Mary Ann and Frank Dinkle, Eunice and Robert Hamel, Norm Newell, Jerry Laurin, Josephine Dougherty, Don Newell, Brenda Newell, and V. Ray Thompson. Funeral service for Kathy is Saturday, September 6 at 11:00 am at St Mary's Catholic Church in Salina, Ks, with a 10:30 am rosary preceding the service. A luncheon will immediately follow the service in the church hall.
Memorial contributions can be made to OCCK (Autism Programs) and mailed to OCCK P.O. Box 1160 Salina, KS 67401