Kathleen M. Wendler, 84, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson, Kansas.  She was born on August 12, 1941, in Park, Kansas, the daughter of Anthony and Dorothy (Haffner) Wildeman.

She married Mell Wendler on June 6, 1960, in Park, Kansas. Kathy devoted herself to her family as a homemaker and was deeply involved in all of her daughters' activities, leading Girl Scouts, attending every sporting event, and supporting numerous other extracurricular pursuits. She later worked as a clerk in the Ness County Treasurer's Office and, in her later years, served as a CNA, providing compassionate care to many. She enjoyed gardening and especially traveling with her daughters throughout the United States. Kathy was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Church and the Altar Society, where she co-chaired the funeral dinner committee. Mell preceded her in death on October 31, 1990.

Kathy is survived by her daughters, Joby Henning of Ness City, Jackie England of Hutchinson; brother, Richard "Dick" Wildeman; grandchildren, Nick (Samantha) Henning, Kelsey Stum, Ben Henning, Catlin (Nick) Pearson; and great-grandchildren, Teddy Stum and Tommy Stum. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Dorothy Wildeman; husband, Mell Wendler; brothers, Bob and Gary Wildeman; and grandson, Jonathan Henning.

A parish vigil service will be on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City, Kansas at 6:30 p.m. Funeral service will be on Saturday, January 31, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at the Sacred Heart Church, Ness City, Kansas.  Burial in the Sacred Heart Cemetery.  Viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Thursday from noon until 8:00 p.m. and from 10:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Sacred Heart Altar Society.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

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