Katherine Irene Wesch, aged 73, of Marysville, passed away on Saturday, October 28, 2023, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on May 14, 1950 in Detroit to the late Stanley and Mae Golec. Katherine exchanged vows with John R. Wesch on July 28, 1984 in Center Line, Michigan.
Katherine's journey in education was marked by dedication and excellence. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and later earned a Master's in Early Childhood Education. Her teaching career began in Macomb County, and in 1977 she joined the Marysville School District where she served with passion and commitment for 35 years. She left an indelible mark on countless young lives by nurturing young minds with her unique teaching techniques. Her goal was to ensure that every child not only mastered the subject matter at hand but also felt a profound sense of accomplishment and had fun learning. Her classrooms were filled with laughter and curiosity. She nurtured an environment in which students felt safe to explore, ask questions, and make mistakes.
Katherine, or Kitty as she was known to most, devoted herself to programs dedicated to bettering the lives of children in her local community and around the world. She was a steadfast member of the Lions Club International and spent many years working with and hosting international students with Youth for Understanding. Many of those international students remained as close as family for years and visited her in her final months.
In addition to her teaching and volunteering, Katherine was a talented seamstress with a flair for creativity. She crafted her own clothing, showcasing her artistic talents. It was with that skill and love that she created numerous Halloween costumes for her son and her grandchildren; costumes that have been shared with many other kids for Halloween and Christmas pageants.
Katherine's zest for life included a love for skiing, a passion ignited during her high school days in the Lincoln High School Ski Club and continued with the Eastern Michigan University Ski Club. She was also an enthusiastic supporter of University of Michigan football and hockey. “Go Blue”
Katherine is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, John; devoted son, Joel (Kate) Wesch; cherished grandchildren, Avery and Myles Wesch; caring siblings, Donald (Kollette) Golec, Merrie (Dan) Woodhouse, and Alice (Mike Koeferl) West; as well as several nieces and nephews. Her impact extended globally, as she is also survived by her extended family, including Seth Ryding of Sweden, Gry Fager of Denmark, Jussi Marin of Finland, Jon Fager of Denmark, and Patrick Mueller of Switzerland.
Visitation to pay respects and offer condolences will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at the Marysville Funeral Home. Funeral services, presided over by Rev Kate E. Wesch and Rev James Thompson, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the Marysville Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Katherine will find her final resting place in Riverlawn Cemetery, Marysville.
Katherine Irene Wesch's memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and a commitment to education and community that will continue to inspire us all.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Water Hospice Home. To send condolences, visit marysvillefuneralhome.com.
