Catherine "Cathy" Kirkeby

 

Catherine Mary (Silver) Kirkeby was born in Clarkfield, MN on October 18, 1940, to George and Rose Silver. She graduated from Clarkfield High School in 1958.

On September 9, 1961, Cathy was united in marriage to Delas Kirkeby. To this union they were blessed with three children, Kyle, Kristin, and Kim. Cathy and Del began their married life in Minneapolis, MN.

She attended one year of college before going to work for the Minnesota State High School League. She absolutely loved her job where she had many responsibilities. Cathy’s career plans changed when the family moved to Alexandria in 1969. She became a full time, stay at home mom. This was by far her most challenging, yet most rewarding career choice. She was able to be at home to raise her three children. Cathy prepared a hot breakfast each morning and a snack every afternoon when her kids returned from school. Her cooking was incredible, as were her canning and baking skills. She eventually went back to work outside the home at Children’s World clothing store until it closed. Soon after that she went to work for the Trumm Family at Trumm Drug downtown. Cathy loved her various roles and developed lifelong friendships until her retirement. To her many friends within the Alex community, just know that she loved you and cherished those relationships. She will see you again one day.

After retirement, Cathy and Del were able to spend many winters in Naples, Florida. They spent time at the pool, hanging out with friends and relaxing on the lanai. Cathy was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school, bible school and helped in the church office. She spent countless hours gardening. Her home was surrounded by several perennial flower gardens, garden boxes and pots filled with annuals.

Cathy treasured her family more than anything. She made every holiday special by giving lots of gifts and making amazing meals. Her seven grandchildren were her pride and joy. She attended as many games and events as possible. Just being with family meant everything to her. Her smile will be missed, her laughter will be felt and her memories with be cherished. Nana will always be in our hearts. The family would like to thank her dedicated friends and relatives that visited her and took her to so many appointments while living at Grand Arbor and Nelson Gables.

Cathy passed away at Nelson Gables in Alexandria on December 19, 2023, at the age of 83 after a battle with cancer and dementia. Cathy is survived by her son Kyle and wife Kristine of Ortonville; daughters Kristin and husband Bob of Alexandria: Kim and husband Tim of Verona, WI. Grandchildren Brody (Amanda) Kirkeby, Brock Erdman, Benjamin Dronen, Nick Pederson, Sam Pederson, Katie Pederson, and Sara Kirkeby. Cathy is preceded in death by husband Del; infant daughter Kari; parents George and Rose Silver; siblings George, Donna, and Richard.

Memorial Service will be held Thursday, December 28, 2023, 1:00 PM at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.  

Memorials given in Cathy's memory will be distributed to Love Inc, the school district 206 food shelves and the First Lutheran Church radio broadcast.