Kathleen Leota Recla

Mesa - Kathleen Leota Recla passed away on September 24, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona, at the age of 74.

Born in Burbank , California, Kathy had a deep love for music, especially singing, and a profound connection to the Arizona desert. She lived her life with an intensity that was impossible to ignore-like a wild horse running free, never to be tamed.

Kathy was the mother of three children: John Golden Jr., Bryan Golden, and Tammie Cunningham. She is also survived by five grandchildren-Bryan, Erika, Matthew, Jarrett, and Brianna-and three great-grandchildren: Brody, Lexi, and Oliver. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings, Reggie Recla and Karen Recla. She was preceded in death by her brother Raymond Recla, her mother Willma Lacey, her father George Recla, and her infant son Bryan Troy Golden.

Our moms life was as unique as she was-outspoken, intelligent, and complex. She was a woman of many layers: a gypsy at heart and a warrior in spirit. Her presence was powerful and unforgettable, even when her ways were challenging for those of us who loved her. She lived life on her own terms, fiercely independent and unyielding.

Her passing leaves behind a mix of emotions-love, sorrow, pain and reflection-but also the memory of a woman who embraced life with passion and defiance. Those who knew her will remember her strength and the indelible mark she left on their lives.

I cannot let our mother's passing go without saying that this woman, my mother, existed. She lived, she loved, and she was both magnificent & painful. Despite everything, our mother was loved beyond any words I could ever write. I hope you found happiness, Mom. I hope you met your father and were able to hold your son. I hope Grandma walked you home and that you are finally able to rest and to feel love without pain or consequence. You were everything in my life, in our lives, Mom. I miss you each moment I have not been able to hear your voice. To see your face , to speak to you . I forgive your pain & fear. I release your memory to God mama.

A celebration of our Mother's life will be held in Wisconsin on June 30, 2025, with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gathering to honor her memory.