Obituary of Kathleen E. Ketelsen

Kathleen E. Ketelsen passed away December 24, 2022 in Iowa City. She was 69 years old. Kathy was born August 9, 1953 in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of Leroy and Elsie (Van Dorn) Wilden. Kathy was a very strong-willed woman with a great sense of humor. She taught her kids and their friends the value of having intestinal fortitude and the value of fun. She was extremely talented in her hobbies. Kathy shared her hobbies with her children and encouraged theirs. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing. Her love of crocheting was first inspired by her sister in law Suzie. Her sewing skills were amazing as evidenced by her daughter Janet's clown costumes. She enjoyed baking and could create flavorful masterpieces. Kathy enjoyed sharing her crafts and kitchen skills with family and friends, and loved teaching her children and grandchildren her cooking /baking secrets and watching them flourish. She appreciated the freedom that her Harley allowed her. Kathy also enjoyed driving long haul truck routes with her husband Steve and parellel parked a semi better than Steve. She was such an amazing personality and will be missed tremendously. Kathy’s family include her cherished husband of over 53 years, Steve; children, Steve (Kim) Ketelsen Jr., Jeff (Nina) Ketelsen, Janet (Dwight Englund) Ketelsen and Jenny (Vince) Grizzle; grandchildren, Sven Ketelsen, Jeffrey Ketelsen, Vincent Tate, Jordan Grizzle, Kristen Lowry, Dante Ketelsen and Chloe Ketelsen; six great grandchildren; and brothers, Stanley Wilden, Larry Wilden and sister in law Suzie (Ray) Wilden. Sadly, Kathy is preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Elsie; brothers, Ray Wilden, Morris Wilden and Charlie Wilden; and aunt, Kathryn Hoff. Kathy’s family have arranged a simple cremation in accordance with her wishes. No services are planned at this time. Please continue to keep Kathy’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.