Kathleen "Kathy" Punches

Kathleen "Kathy" Punches, age 72, of Hamler passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, with her niece, Nikole, lovingly by her side.

Kathy was born on July 7, 1953, to John and Dolores (Schwab) Hayes.

On December 9, 1972, she married the love of her life, Randy "Buzz" Punches. High school sweethearts and true soulmates, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage before his passing in 2022. His big personality paired perfectly with her steady, unwavering love - together, their bond was something truly special.

Kathy was a proud graduate of Patrick Henry High School and a devoted member of St. Paul's Catholic Church in Hamler. Her faith was steadfast, guiding her life with grace, humility and quiet strength.

She began her distinguished Communications career at The Crescent-News, where she spent 20 years first as a news reporter and ultimately Society Director. She then dedicated 25 years to Defiance College as Director of Public Relations and Marketing.

Kathy earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts from Defiance College and later completed her Master of Liberal Studies from The University of Toledo. At just 28 years old, she was honored as Defiance's Outstanding Young Woman of 1981 in recognition of her dedication and service to the community.

Kathy found joy in reading, photography, antiquing and traveling - especially adventures with Buzz, including a memorable Route 66 trip. In 1978, she treasured a special trip to Ireland with her father.

She loved exploring new places and spending time with those she loved. An animal lover at heart, she adored her dog, Zoey.

Kathy was kind-hearted, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate. She had a calm, steady presence that made others feel safe and cared for. A gifted and intentional giver, she was always thinking of others and quietly helping wherever she could.

Strong and steady - and sometimes stoic - she was also full of warmth. She was a devoted wife, sister, and the world's most special aunt and friend. She had a beautiful gift for making everyone feel welcome.

Kathy also cherished her lifelong best friend, Judy Damman, her treasured companion since they were six years old. Their friendship was one of the greatest blessings of her life.

She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Lea Ann Hayes; her niece, Nikole Hayes; her great-niece, Madeline "Maddie"; and many other beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

She will forever be loved and remembered by those she shared her life with.

The family will receive guests on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 2-8 p.m. at Feehan-Rodenberger Funeral Home, Deshler. Visitation will also be held at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Hamler, from 10-11 a.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026, until the time of her Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. with Fr. Nicholas Cunningham presiding. Interment will follow at St. Paul's Catholic Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Catholic Church, the Henry County Humane Society or the Friends of the Hamler Public Library.

To leave a special message for Kathy's family, please visit www.feehanrodenbergerfuneralhome.com.