Jan. 10, 2017 – Hartford, WI – Katherine J. Babbitt age 68, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Angels Grace Hospice. She was born on November 22, 1948 in Hartford to parents Herbert and Dorothy (Hoenow) Zehren. Kay was united in marriage to Dr. Donald Babbitt on December 12, 1987 until his passing in 2005.
She was a teacher for 15 years at St. Kilian’s Catholic School in Hartford. Kay earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English at the UW-Oshkosh, a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction at UW-Milwaukee and a Doctoral Degree in Administration and Supervision at Marquette University. She enjoyed kayaking, reading, crossword puzzles and was famous for her love of baking cookies and sharing them with others. Kay will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Katherine is survived by parents, Herbert and Dorothy Zehren; four siblings, Sister Jodene Zehren SSSF, Richard Zehren, Joanne (John Hake) Pinkerton and Daniel (Bill Coulombe) Zehren; Don’s children, the late Patrick (Janet) Babbitt, James (Barbara) Babbitt and Ann Babbitt; one nephew, Christopher (Amy) Pinkerton and niece, Erin (Andy Lutz) Pinkerton; grandniece, Halla Pinkerton and grandnephew, Ian Lutz; also survived by other relatives and friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Kilian Catholic Church, 264 State Street, Hartford on Monday, January 16 at 11:30 AM with Fr. David LaPlante presiding. A time of visitation for family and friends at the church from 9:30 AM until the time of Mass. Burial at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. The family would like to thank Angels Grace Hospice for their loving care and support. Memorials in Katherine’s name are appreciated to St. Kilian Church Endowment Fund or Angels Grace Hospice. The Shimon Funeral Home is serving the family.