Kathryn Kowalke, 75, Rapid City, went to be with the Lord Friday March 17, 2006 at Rapid city Regional Hospital due to respiratory failure after contracting Influenza A.

   Kathryn was born May 28, 1930 in Aberdeen, SD to John and Barbara (Welder) Gross and was 1 of 4 children.  She grew up in Aberdeen and married Edward Martens in 1949.  They moved to Rapid City in 1956 where they gave life to 7 children.  Edward Martens passed away in 1965.  Kathryn was united in marriage to Wilford ‘Willy’ Kowalke on Nov. 18, 1968.  They worked together for several years at the Arrowhead Country Club and for Gray Line Bus School Transportation Service.  She retired from work in 1996 and enjoyed spending time with her family, her pets and growing her flowers.   She moved to the Clarkson/Mt. View Nursing Home on March 18, 2005 and lived there until her passing.

   Kathryn was preceded in death by her first husband Edward Martens, 1 daughter, her sister Clara Bierman, her brother Antone Gross and her parents.  She is survived by her husband Wilford ‘Willy’ Kowalke; 7 children, 13 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren.  Children and grandchildren are Barbara Godby (Bobbi Jo, Mary, Kathy, and Kenny); Linda Bishop; Dixie Tomek (Mike, Dolsie, Jimmy and Joey); Henry Martens (Sara, Rita, Henry and John); Anna Carter (Toby and Teegan); Edward Martens and Sherri Martens.

   Kathryn will be greatly missed by everyone.  She had a beautiful heart and was never one to complain.  She always cared about everyone that she met and had a great affection for animals.  Even when she became very ill, she was very courageous and was always willing to tell you she was fine and God Bless You.   She had a very special place in her heart for her grandson, Mr. Mike, and he will miss her greatly.  In her final days, she was cared for by her family.  Special thanks to her daughter, Barbara and grandson Micheal for providing her with care and compassion during her overnight hours.