Kathryn Joann (Van Horn) Wieland

Kathryn Joann Van Horn Wieland was embraced by saints and angels on February 13, 2024, her unwavering faith held tightly in her hand. As the world dimmed slightly, the heavenly glow around her intensified.

Born on December 20, 1952, at St. Joe’s in downtown Chicago, Illinois, Kathryn took pride in never being a Bears fan. Her lifelong pursuit of knowledge began at St. Raymond’s in Mt. Prospect, IL, followed by St. Theresa’s in Palatine, IL. She completed her elementary education at St. John the Baptist in Plymouth—a community she wholeheartedly embraced.

Kathryn graduated from Saint Mary’s Springs Academy in 1971. Continuing her formal education, she earned a degree in Humanities with an emphasis on Literature and Philosophy, along with a minor in Organizational Leadership and Quality from St. Mary’s of the Woods. She then went on earn her master’s degree in Organizational Leadership at Marian College.

Throughout her fulfilling career, Kathryn’s common thread was service. Despite not accumulating great wealth, she found enrichment in her work. She took pride in establishing “Here We Grow,” a space in Plymouth that fully embodied its name. Her tenure at United Way allowed her to champion causes she deeply believed in. As a driving force behind the Plymouth Intergenerational Center, she realized her dream of creating a place where people of all ages and backgrounds could learn from and serve one another.

As the eldest child, Kathryn led her younger siblings on countless adventures, pranks, and shenanigans—all infused with her boundless love. Her nurturing spirit encouraged others to become their best selves, honing her leadership skills from an early age. These qualities would continue to serve her well throughout her rich life.

Jo, as she was affectionately known, remained forever curious and passionate about learning. Her love for travel was a testament to her adventurous spirit. Her 3 trips to Alaska were among her favorites. She also loved traveling to Ireland to explore her Irish heritage of which she was extremely proud. If you ever marched in an Irish parade with her, her enthusiasm was next level.

On September 15, 1979, under the warm sun, she and Dan W. embarked on a memorable journey—their wedding day. 44 years of marriage followed, a tapestry woven with shared dreams, challenges, and unwavering commitment. No matter what storms came their way, they navigated back to each other, finding a path forward. Their love was an anchor, steadying them through life’s tides.

Then, on November 26, 1980, their family grew. Derek arrived, filling their home with joy. And on March 4, 1983, a double blessing—a second son, Brian, entered their lives. She embraced her role as a mother, her heart expanding beyond measure. Amidst all her achievements and accolades, her greatest pride lay in her two sons—the legacy of love she and Dan had built together.

She is survived by; her husband Dan, son Brian (Erin), siblings Chuck (Trina) Van Horn (Halle), Teresa Van Horn (Patrick, Ryan, Brennan, and Casey, Sue (Mike) Faz (Max and Sam), sisters-in-law Liz Van Horn (Everett and Joe), Sandra Wieland Sippel (Ron) and their children Tammy and Todd, and nephew Jeff Niesen (Tom).
She was preceded in death by her son Derek; parents Joe and Kay Van Horn; her in-laws Andy and Audie Wieland; brother’s Jay and Tom Van Horn.

A celebration of her life will be held Saturday May 18th at Generations in Plymouth. Donations (monetary or your service) can be made in her memory to Generations or to a charity of your choice.

All her family and friends would like to extend a huge thank you to Dr Bettag and staff at Matthews Oncology. As well as Dr Lango and staff at Froedert Hospital. A very special thanks goes out to all the compassionate staff at Sharon S Richardson hospice. A thank you to Deb Nicolaus for writing the obituary. And a very heartfelt thank you to her amazing best friend Cindy Howley.

Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Wittkopp location, is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com