Kathryn Joyce Benner

Benner, Kathryn Joyce ZilzMy Mother, My Best FriendAnd Her Children Shall Rise Up And Call Her Blessed... Proverbs 31:28.My Mother was born in Oshkosh on June 28, 1932, the only child of Ervin August and Laura Emma Buetow Zilz. My Mothers worldly spiritual journey began at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Oshkosh where she was Christened, Confirmed and Married by the late Reverend Herald O Kleinhans. These affirmations were just the start of a life devoted to her faith and those around her.Kathy-who was a devoted friend to all who knew her as well as those in need-attended Oshkosh Public Schools and after graduating from Oshkosh High School, she studied at the former Oshkosh Business College. As a young woman, Kathy already held the determination to do both family and career, and both she did in her exemplary style, but not so much as to miss the twinkle in the eye of a young and handsome Joseph Kendrick Benner. On April 20, 1956, with me every step of the way, my Mother became the cherished bride- and I the cherished daughter-of her new husband, Joe. It was a romance that never extinguished.Kathys work life began as a high school student at Race Office Supply in Oshkosh, not just a job but a devotion that developed into a career and then as a partner in the business...a devotion that spanned 49-plus years.My Mom held many interests, and especially the joy she and my dad shared in heading up many endeavors serving youths. Among them were the years of Junior Crusaders Teen Group at Martin Luther and Girl Pioneers. Kathy-with Joe at her side-was enthusiastic at planning events to capture the interest of the kids with teen-geared outings and events. Mom was also a Sunday School teacher and actively supported and participated in my Dads roll as a Big Brother. Church life and her faith were a source of strength and comfort to my Mom, as well as the joy she had sharing her time and talents. She thoroughly enjoyed her many friendships including those she made as a member of the Ladies Aid at Grace Lutheran Church in Pickett.My Mother was an immensely creative lady easily seen in her decorating, cooking and baking having an exceptional flair for detail and presentation topped only by her quick and sparkling wit. This is the Mom I shall forever cherish.Though my Mother was a woman of strength and determination, much of her spirit was challenged with the untimely passing of my Father, her soul-mate and the love of her life. Following his untimely death, she continued bravely to contribute with active participation in numerous events and charitable interests, but her declining health took its toll. On Sunday, November 13, 2011, I lost my best friend to life eternal. Kathy leaves me and my husband Patrick Meyer, each of her cousins...all of them within a special place in her heart, numerous friends and my Basenji sibling Murphy-whose lively antics enhanced her post-retirement days.Kathryns life will be commemorated with my husband and I receiving friends at her much loved Church, Grace Evangelical Lutheran in Pickett, WI on this Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 10 oclock in the morning until the Service begins at Noon. Kathys mortal remains will be returned to the earth in a morning ceremony on Monday at Peace Lutheran Cemetery in Oshkosh.In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to The Oshkosh Area Community Pantry, The Oshkosh Humane Society and Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Pickett.Our heartfelt thanks to William Elliott, MD; Peter Johnson, MD; Anu Vijayakumar, MD; Laurie Kadunc, RN and the entire ICU and Sixth Floor Staff at Aurora-West Allis Medical Center Hospital for the attentive and compassionate care that was extended to my mother and me.Mommy, Well Love You ForeverWell Miss You For Always;As Long As Were LivingOur Mommy Youll Be.-Author UnknownSusan and Murphy

Grace Lutheran Pickett



502 County Road M
Pickett
WI
54964

Saturday, November 19, 2011
10 until noon



Grace Lutheran Pickett



502 County Road M
Pickett
WI
54964

Saturday, November 19, 2011
noon



Peace Lutheran Cemetery



100 Waukau Ave
Oshkosh
WI
54902