Kerry WILTZIUS Obituary

WILTZIUS, Kerry Kerry Wiltzius, a dedicated triathlete, tireless nonprofit worker and matriarch of a family that extended well beyond her home in Mead, died June 30 from injuries she received while cycling. She was 65. Born to Marjorie and Jack Forslof on October 19, 1954, Kerry grew up in Deer Lake with best friend Colleen Boyle. She graduated from Deer Park HIgh School in 1972. Kerry married Mike Wiltzius in 1977, and the couple celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary May 28, 2020. While raising their three daughters, Kerry worked at the Spokane Humane Society, Northeast Community Center, MS Society, Southside Senior Center, Manito Park and several other local nonprofits. The table was always full at the home she shared with Mike, as grandbabies rounded out the household. Friends were always welcome on the farm. In addition to her work for nonprofits, Kerry volunteered with the Girl Scouts, Kairos Prison Ministry, Executive Women International's chapter in Spokane and Job's Daughters, a worldwide organization supporting young women. About nine years ago, Kerry began training for and competing in triathlons. Cycling was her favorite part of the competitions, and she was training for a competition the morning she was injured. Kerry was an active member of Team Blaze. Kerry enjoyed baking, tending to her irises and peonies, cooking and holding barbecues. She loved to support local businesses, and was especially fond of the Greenbluff area. She was an avid lover of music and loved to socialize. Kerry also volunteered and supported local charities when she wasn't spoiling her grandbabies. Kerry is survived by her sister, Kathleen Forslof, husband, Mike, and their daughters Dawn Wiltzius, of Seattle; Kara (Scott) Stucker, of Mead; and Kati (Jay) Norman, of Spokane Valley; grandchildren Aidan Vrentas; Ryley and Sierra Norman; and Glenn and Wyatt Stucker. She is preceded in death by her parents and brothers Ed and Tim Forslof. A private service is planned due to restrictions on gatherings. A future celebration of life is pending.

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Published by Spokesman-Review on Jul. 5, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Kerry WILTZIUS

11 Entries

Heather Manley Manley

Planted Trees

Benjamin Beebe

August 4, 2020

I had the privilege of meeting Kerry & Mike Wiltzius while visiting relatives that have been close friends of theirs for many years. My immediate & lasting impression of Kerry was that of a gracious hostess & excellent cook, with a great sense of humor & extremely devoted to her family. My deepest condolences go out to Mike & the Wiltzius family as they grapple with this incalculable loss.

Paddy Inman

July 11, 2020

Dear Mike, Dawn, Kara, Kati, and Families,
My heart ached when I read the news of Kerry's accident and death. I have biked, run, and walked over Peone Prairie for 47 years, and Kerry was one of my favorite early morning exercisers. We would pass frequently on our morning routes, wave, and say a word of greeting. The day before her accident we passed on Fairview and she said, Paddy, it's so cold today. I admired her tenacity and faithful spirit and always looked forward to seeing her biking or jogging out on the road or past our house.
You are on my mind and in my heart as you grieve her loss. My hope is that fond memories will sustain you as you adjust to life without her.
Sincerely,
Paddy Inman

Sue Cone

July 10, 2020

My heart is saddened for Kerry's Family and many friends. She was indeed a special Woman. She will be missed, but never forgotten.

Alicia Doney

July 6, 2020

till my mind reels over the tragic reality of what has happened. In my humanness Ill never be able to make sense of it. Because I love and trust in the love of Christ, Im glad I dont have to. I need only trust in His unfailing plan. That doesnt mean Im done crying. I can barely look at my yard without tears coming to my eyes. My yard is covered in flowers from Kerrys yard and Ill think of her every time Im out trying to prune and thin them and cultivate them as she has tried so hard to teach me all these years. Ill carry all our laughter and shared tears close to my heart to the end of my days when I see her again in Heaven. Im so grateful she believed in me and for all she has helped me do over the course of these past 12 years. Im thankful for the many times we served side by side in various ministries. Im even thankful she talked me into my first (and so far only) mini tri. She reminded me I wasnt there to win just to have fun and she reminded me my granddaughter was watching and cheering me on. I didnt quit, I didnt die...I completed it! Thats the real win. Thank you for teaching me that Kerry. I love you to the moon Kerry. My selfish human heart wants to keep you here with us, but I know God has a more glorious plan for you and this most certainly is not goodbye...simply a see you later...in eternity. Hug Jesus and my grandparents for me.

Heather Wischmann

July 6, 2020

Not really sure where to start. Kerry was one amazing grandma, she never forgot a birthday or to send a quick hello. She welcomed my son with open arms to her family and loved him unconditionally from the moment he arrived. She had a vibrant spirit, was proud to share recipes(especially the pie crust from her mama) and was so willing to help anyone who needed it. She is missed so much already. We send our love, thoughts, prayers and hopes for quick healing to Mike and the rest and of the family.

Barbara Lamson-Maranto

July 5, 2020

Im so sorry to hear of Kerrys untimely passing. I was just thinking about how much fun our families had together as kids at Deer Lake. I pray that her family eventually finds peace. Go with God Kerry.

Christie Cole

July 5, 2020

I will miss our garden digs and raspberry picking I will add them to my memories like growing up at the lake
I will miss you dearly cousin
Prayers and love to Mike and the family

Val

July 5, 2020

Kerry was my friend and neighbor for 30+ years. Many neighborhood get togethers over the years were often hosted by Kerry. One of her specialties was smoked/bbq turkey for the after bloomsday party in their beautiful backyard. I always new she was an amazing lady but did not realize just how much until now. She leaves a large hole in our neighborhood, our community and in the hearts of many. Im sure her familys hearts swell with pride and break in two at the same time. All my love to the Wiltzius Family. May your light forever shine, Kerry❤

Mindy Norman

July 5, 2020

Kerry was an amazing woman. Im so blessed to have her Daughter Kati as a sister in law. She will be missed. Though her memories will live on in all of our hearts. Much love to the whole family.

Janelle Justice

July 5, 2020

I met Kerry as a teenage Jobie, she was always involves in something where she could enjoy life and be with people. She called me her insperattion and always made a point to seek me out in any crowd to say Hello. I will miss her always. My love and prayers to Mike and the family.

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