Kathleen Keinonen

Kathleen A. "Kathy” Keinonen, 65, Kaukauna, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 26, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Kathy was born on July 2, 1957 in Kaukauna, the daughter of the late Toiva “Toby” and Irma (Hein) Keinonen.

Kathy was a 1975 graduate of Kaukauna High School. She started working at Berkers Insurance Agency in Kaukauna when she was 15 and worked at various insurance agencies in the Fox Valley until she retired from Jeweler’s Mutual.

Kathy enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed visits with her sister Barb where they would talk about anything and everything, going on adventures with her best friend Laura, playing bingo at Oneida, running her two Twitter accounts, writing her epic Christmas newsletter, and feeding the birds while attempting to outwit the squirrels in her backyard. She especially looked forward to visits from her four-legged niece Charley, who she loved to spoil. She will be remembered fondly for her dry wit, generosity of spirit and unmatched storytelling.

Kathy is survived by her sister, Barbara Chosa; her nephews, Daniel Chosa, Jr. and Christopher Chosa with special family members Joe Dietz and Kylee Tessman; her nieces, Kelly (Jason) Briesch and Kim Keinonen; her special family member, Aaron Wienke; and former sister-in-law Betty (Doug) Akey along with the many honorary nieces and nephews she accumulated along the way.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Toby and Irma Keinonen, brother, Karl Keinonen and brother-in-law, Dan Chosa.

Barb and family would like to thank the staff on the second floor of the Fremont Tower of St. Elizabeth Hospital, along with Dr. Nicholas Freeman and Dr. Norris Norman for enabling Kathy to spend her last days with comfort and dignity.  They would also like to express their gratitude to longtime neighbors and friends Bill and Jinny Biese for their years of companionship and all the things they helped Kathy with over the years.

In accordance with Kathy’s wishes, there will be a private family gathering. We will be forever grateful to our family and friends who gave us love, support and strength.

In remembrance of Kathy’s life, the family asks that any memorials be made as charitable donations to the Bay Area Humane Society.