TOMAH - Katherine Rose Rowley Nee Grisham, or “Katie” as she was affectionately known, graced this world on July 22, 1959, the daughter of Harold and Helen Grisham, in her beloved hometown of Waukegan Illinois. From the very beginning, it was clear that the great outdoors, sports, and the company of animals held a special place in her heart.
Katie’s childhood was a testament to her deep connection with nature and her infectious love for sports. She thrived under the sun, relishing every opportunity to explore the beauty of the outdoors. Her zest for life was contagious, and her enthusiasm for all things athletic was undeniable. Katie’s passion for sports shone brightly during her time at Waukegan Township High School, where she pursued her dreams with unwavering determination.
A star athlete and a fierce competitor, Katie found her calling on the swim and dive team, soaring to new heights, eventually clinching first place in the Northern Illinois swim conference. Her dedication, discipline, and indomitable spirit were the hallmarks of her athletic journey. In addition to her prowess in the water, she shared her talents on the softball field, proudly representing the Waukegan JC’s.
Katie’s impact extended far beyond her athletic achievements. She had an innate ability to connect with others, making lifelong friendships and spreading joy wherever she went. Her magnetic personality and genuine kindness endeared her to everyone she met, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
As a young lady, Katie found joy in horseback riding, and her love for these majestic creatures became a lifelong affair. Later in life, she cultivated beautiful gardens, cast her line into the waters for a day of fishing, and embarked on adventures that took her far and wide. Whether it was exploring new places or sharing a quick bite to eat with loved ones.
In the tapestry of her life, Katie faced moments of sorrow, as she was preceded in death by her beloved father and her brother John. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Katie’s journey was intertwined with the lives of many, and she is survived by her best friend and mother, Helen Grisham Eucolono, her life partner and true love, Donald Kuntz, her brother Jim and his wife Ann, her stepdaughters Melissa (Jason) Grooms and Michele (Shannon) Frangiano, her niece Denise Graham (Randy), great niece Alle Brean, her nephew Gregg (Sara) Grisham, Donald’s mother Irene, sisters Debbie, and Vickee (Gary), brothers Dean and Frank, nephews Joey and Jaxon, and niece Ava as well as many extended friends and family who will all dearly miss her.
Her unwavering faith in God, particularly her love for Jesus, was a guiding light in Katie’s life. She drew strength and inspiration from the deep well of faith instilled in her by her mother, Helen.
Services to celebrate Katie’s life will be held at Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church, 315 West Monroe Street, Tomah, WI 54660, on Saturday, November 18th. The Rosary will be recited at 10:30 am, followed by Holy Mass at 11 am. After the Mass, a celebration of life will be held at the church, providing an opportunity to honor the remarkable life of a woman who touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Katie’s love, her spirit, and her enduring faith will remain as a cherished legacy, guiding all those who had the privilege of sharing in her journey through life. She will be remembered with love, gratitude, and a profound sense of loss by those whose lives were touched by her presence.
