Kathleen Walsh Zapfel

Kathleen Walsh Zapfel

Age 78 years.  Born to eternal life October 28, 2025 at Aurora Medical Center Grafton.  Beloved wife of Donald for 57 years.  Dear mother of Jean (Troy) Karll, Donald (Jenny), James (Deanna), John (Katie) and Ray (Stacy) Scolavino.  Loving grandmother of Tori, Daniel, Aiden, Meghan, Connor, T.J., Austin,  Adrianna, Leo, Finn, and Noah. Fond great grandmother of Ryker.  Sister of Richard (Marcy) Walsh.  Sister-in-law of Marilyn (Robert) Rome.  Further survived by other relatives and friends. 

Kathy filled every room she entered—and every kitchen she cooked in—with warmth, laughter, and light.

Kathy loved to cook, but even more, she loved the people who gathered around her table. Sunday dinners, holidays, and late-night talks were her way of bringing people together long after the dishes were done.

She poured that same generosity into her community through her work with Milwaukee Public Schools, St. Phillip Neri, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and church choir. At home, Kathy was a second mom to many. She and Don welcomed countless friends, family, neighbors, international students, and many more anytime—offering care, comfort, and a place to belong.

Above all, Kathy treasured her family and lived for her grandkids, who were truly her greatest joy. 

From boating, baking, attending school and sports activities, visiting ‘up north’ and out west, hosting sleepovers, and simply listening to the latest developments in their lives, she was undoubtedly the best grandma a kid could ask for.

Kathy will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering generosity. She made everyone feel at home—and that legacy of love will live on in the many hearts she nourished.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Kathy’s honor to be made to Hunger Task Force of Milwaukee ( https://www.hungertaskforce.org ) 5000 West Electric Avenue, West Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53219.

A memorial visitation will be held for Kathleen on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9:00am until the time of Funeral Mass at 10:30am, all at Blessed Savior Catholic Church, 8545 West Villard Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53225.

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