Cathy Kotarak

Cathy (nee Gillis) Kotarak passed away November 25, 2022 at the age of 51, after a four year battle with breast cancer. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert J. Gillis, Ted's father, Mel Schwulst, and grandparents: Alvin and Doris Gillis and Fredrick and Carol Reimer.
Cathy is survived by her life partner, Ted Schwulst, daughter, Jolyssa Kotarak, son, Josh Schwulst, Ted's mother, Sandy Schwulst, and dear friend, Dawn (Danny) Klements. She is also survived by her mother, Susan (Kevin) Carr and siblings: Dave (Kristin) Gillis, Rick (Angela) Gillis, Carolyn (Douglas) Wilary, and John (Mandy) Gillis.
She is also survived by her nephews: Jake Fulton, Robert Wilary, Jack Gillis, Andrew Wilary, Ryan Gillis, Lincoln Gillis and nieces: Jaci Williams, Nicole Gillis, Samantha Gillis, Ashleigh Gillis, Kylie Gillis, Allison Wilary, Lilly Carr, and Cairenn Carr. Further survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, including Cathy's Crew and all those Cathy knew through TJ's Roundabout.
Cathy is a loving life partner and an incredible mother to her children. Cathy loved spending time with Ted cruising the lake and throwing spectacular holiday bashes in their backyard, especially on the Fourth of July. Cathy absolutely loved her time at TJ's Roundabout. From Packer and Muskego football games to charity events, she always made sure everyone was having a great time. She lit up a room and was well-known as the life of the party and the "Karaoke Queen." Cathy was a protector and a loving auntie as she watched over many of her nieces and nephews in her daycare.
Cathy was amazing and loved by all. She will always hold a special place in all our hearts.
Visitation and Service will be held at Hartson Funeral Home, 11111 W. Janesville Road, Hales Corners, WI 53130. On Friday, December 2, 2022 from 1 PM until 4 PM. Service at 4:00 PM.
A celebration of Cathy's life will follow at the Tichigan Lake Civic Center, 6710 Big Bend Road, Waterford WI 53185 from 5 PM - 8 PM