Kay F. Schroeder, exuding unconditional love and selflessness, was known for her caring nature and accepting smile. Her wit and humor warmed the hearts of those around her. She gave generously to her loved ones and acquaintances, never seeking anything in return.
A hole in our hearts was created when Kay passed peacefully at home on October 13, 2024, at age 86. She was born to Neal and Marge Schroeder on November 13, 1937. Kay enjoyed travel, swimming, and playing games with her three best friends and sisters, Marilyn, Betty, and Jan. She grew up in Two Rivers, where her father and uncles owned and operated Schroeder’s Department Store, which has remained family-owned since 1891. Kay graduated in 1955 from Washington High School, after which she continued her studies until she was summoned home to care for her mother. She was a devoted Catholic and enjoyed attending church and having breakfast afterward with members of her family.
Kay, a proud mother of three sons, Mike, Mark, and Scott, was a loving and active figure in their lives. She instilled respect, a competitive spirit, and dedication to purpose in them through her love, hugs, and board games. Her sons witnessed her juggle being a mother and working as a bookkeeper. But above all, Kay was a mother, a role she embraced with all her heart and soul. Her love for the water was evident in her daily (often with her sister Jan) visits to the Manitowoc-Two Rivers YMCA for over 50 years. She also enjoyed boating with her family, whether it was a day on the West Twin River or a journey across Lake Michigan. But it was her love for nature that truly defined her. She enjoyed spending time with her dogs and observing birds and wildlife from her home on English Lake, and her appreciation for the environment was infectious.
Kay was preceded in death by her parents and three older sisters and brothers-in-law, Marilyn & John Buffone, Betty & John Schnorr, and Jan and Jerry Reich. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Mike & Amy (Holmes) Molepske of Two Rivers, WI; Mark & Amy (Mell) Molepske of Hinsdale, IL; and Scott & Sarah (Daniels) Molepske of Cedarburg, WI; and six grandchildren, Mary, Sarah, Nick, Jake, Max, and Jack.
A memorial service to celebrate Kay’s life will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 8100 Brunner Road, Newton, with Rev. David Beaudry officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial, with burial on a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery in Two Rivers. Relatives and friends are invited to visit family at the church on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Manitowoc-Two Rivers YMCA or Lakeshore Humane Society.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com.
The Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Reinbold & Pfeffer location, is assisting the family with arrangements.
