Mrs. ART (Kathy Brophy) WIERENGA 1938-2007

HAYNES, BROPHY, WIERENGA, STILWELL

Posted By: Volunteer
Date: 6/29/2007 at 08:10:38

Kathy Wierenga

Kathy Wierenga, age 68, of Hermosa, SD died Monday, May 21, 2007 at her home east of Hermosa after a brief illness. A memorial service was held Friday, May 25 at the United Church of Christ in Hermosa, with Pastor Mitch Behringer officiating.

"Life isn't a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in one pretty and well-preserved piece, but to skid across the line broadside, thoroughly used up, worn out, and shouting 'Geronimo!' "

To those who knew Kathy Wierenga, these words as displayed on her refrigerator are both a confirmation of the way she lived her life, and an encouragement for others to do the same. With a sparkle in her eyes and smile on her face, Kathy was fascinated by people and by life itself. Her unflagging energy, boundless enthusiasm, and genuine love for others made Kathy well-loved among her family, friends, and community. These things were balanced by a deep faith in the Lord and the confident assurance of her beliefs.

Kathy Wierenga was born September 26, 1938 in Newcastle, WY to Francis and Lois (Haynes) Brophy. She grew up on the family ranch on Battle Creek east of Hermosa and graduated from Rapid City High School. Kathy married Art Wierenga June 24, 1956 in Hermosa, S.D., and joined him in ranching throughout South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa and Wyoming. She worked as a bookkeeper at various businesses in Rapid City since 1982 and "retired" in 2003.

Kathy loved spending time with her family and playing music, both on her accordion and the piano. She played keyboard for the Hermosa Hillbillies band and served as the organist for the Hermosa United Church of Christ. Kathy also enjoyed traveling, visiting family and friends throughout the states and meeting new friends overseas. She was a member of the Hermosa United Church of Christ, Order of the Eastern Star, Hermosa Arts and Historical Association, and the State Women's Fellowship Board of the United Church of Christ, holding various offices in these organizations.

She is survived by two daughters, Terrie Wierenga of Richmond, UT and Char (Clark) Stilwell of Waukon; three sons, Wade Wierenga of Hermosa, SD, Mark (TJ) Wierenga of Billings, MT, and Craig (Cindy) Wierenga of Austin, TX; 13 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Art; her parents; her brothers, Chuck and Terry; and her sister, Dorothy.

Waukon Standard, May 30, 2007

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