Kathleen (Kathy) Kay Michael, 77, of Missouri Valley, passed away on Dec. 12, 2024, in Omaha, Neb.
Kathleen was born on Jan. 19, 1947, in Council Bluffs, the daughter of parents Earl Murray and Freda (Cooper) Murray. Kathy was raised in Missouri Valley, where she grew up with a strong sense of family and community. She enjoyed spending nearly every day of the summer at the local swimming pool and being spoiled by her three older siblings and many cousins.
Kathy and her husband, Gary, shared 57 years of marriage filled with love, companionship, and the joys of raising their family. Kathy and Gary especially enjoyed traveling, fine dining, and spending time with their grandchildren, nieces, and nephews (often referred to as the “fun aunt and uncle”).
Kathy was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Andrea Michael and Deanna Hainline. In her earlier years, she began working as a medical transcriptionist and then became a stay-at-home mom, dedicated to raising her children. Kathy then began cleaning the homes of many in the Missouri Valley community. Once her girls were raised, Kathy returned to her career as a transcriptionist until retirement.
Kathy was known for her meticulous care of her home and lawn. She was an avid gardener and could often be found tending to her flowers. Kathy was also a fantastic cook and will always be remembered for her delicious rolls.
Throughout her life, Kathy had an immense love for animals. Her compassion extended to countless dogs, and she often opened her heart to dogs in need. She homed and fostered many dogs throughout her life, giving them a safe and loving environment. She will be fondly remembered for the joys she brought to the dogs she cared for and the families who adopted them.
Kathy will forever be remembered for her love for family, animals, and the beauty of nature.
Preceded in death by her husband, Gary; parents Earl and Freda Murray; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Glenn and Violet Michael; brothers, James Murray and Ronald Murray; and brother-in-law, Ronald Beebe.
Survived by her daughters, Deanna Hainline (Mark) and Andrea Michael; grandchildren, Alexander and Peyton Hainline, Halle Paladino; and great-granddaughter, Naomi; sister, Roma Beebe; sisters-in-law, Elaine Murray and Diane Murray; and many nieces and nephews.
Services were conducted Dec. 17, 2024.
Arrangements made by Hennessey Funeral Home. Online Condolences, www.hennesseyonline.com.
