Kathleen Higgins Paur's Obituary
Kathleen (Keelean) Higgins Paur, age 68, of Waupaca, Wisconsin, formerly of Hudsonville, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 2, surrounded by love and cherished memories.
Kathy was born in Hudsonville, Michigan, where she spent most of her life before moving to Waupaca in 2015 to be near her daughter Jillian and two of her grandsons as they grew up - a role she treasured deeply. Her grandkids were her pride and joy, and she found endless happiness in being part of their lives.
Kathy shared her life with her devoted husband Randy Paur, whom she married in 2019. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventures - especially their favorite trips to Lake Superior, where she loved searching for rocks and collecting the most beautiful ones. Her gifts of rocks and socks became a beloved family tradition that will be deeply missed, though not nearly as much as she will be.
Kathy is survived by her husband Randy; her daughters Jillian (Todd) Petersen of Waupaca, WI, and their sons Soren and Jens; and Amy (Steve) Earl of Holly Springs, NC, and their children Nathan, Simon, and Emma. She is also survived by her siblings Gary (Joni) Keelean of Hudsonville, MI, Marilyn Keelean of Lake City, MI, Colleen Weatherbee of Grandville, MI, Brian Keelean of Washington, and Jerry Keelean of Washington. She was preceded in death by her parents Hubert and Edna Keelean, and her sister Kay (Richard) Dirkse.
Kathy devoted her life to caring for others. She worked at Johnson Controls in Holland, MI for nearly 40 years, where she was known for her hard work and kindness. When she moved to Wisconsin, she found great purpose working with veterans at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, where serving those who served our country meant so much to her. After retiring, she continued her mission of compassion through Synergy Home Health, where she cared for many lucky clients who quickly became like family. Kathy’s heart for others was unmatched - she truly would give the coat off her back or the shoes off her feet to anyone in need.
Above all, Kathy loved her family deeply. She adored her husband, her daughters, and her grandchildren - and her life was a shining example of kindness, generosity, and a servant’s heart. She taught everyone around her the importance of giving your time and talents to others, and she left the world brighter through her love and compassion.
She will be missed beyond words and remembered always for her giving spirit, her laughter, her love of nature, and the joy she found in simple moments with those she loved most.
A Celebration of Life for Kathy will be held on Friday, November 7, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the beautiful life she lived.
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