Kathleen J. Wanroy

Kathy’s prayers were answered as she was called home to be reunited with her beloved husband, parents, sister and other dear friends on Saturday, May 26, 2012 in Billings, Montana. Kathy was born January 6, 1926 in Munith, MI to parents Harold and Ruth (Hirth) Ford. She was the 2nd of 4 daughters born to the Fords and grew up in a loving and nurturing family. Kathy was a graduate of Stockbridge High School (Stockbridge, MI) and received her teaching degree from Michigan State University. She taught elementary education for a number of years in several states. Her life changed when she met her best friend and soon to be husband, Phil Wanroy. They were married in 1956 and began a life of companionship, camping, love of dogs, and relishing in the beauty of nature.

Phil and Kathy built a campground from the ground up and soon joined Kampgrounds of America with a franchise in Michigan. Since Phil was a technical technician, KOA, Inc soon called them to be part of the KOA, Inc family in Billings where Phil eventually became the Vice President of Technical Services. The KOA family meant much to them and lifelong friends were formed. Phil passed away suddenly in 1983 and Kathy’s heart was broken.

Kathy remained in Billings and was a prayer warrior for her family, friends, and church. She became a Stephen’s Minister, thoroughly enjoyed her Tuesday morning Bible study, met with special friends in the Graduates, enjoyed music, Studio Theater, gardening, and her poodles. Kathy was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Billings until health issues intervened. She enjoyed living the past few years at West Park Village and the friends met there. Kathy was a loving friend and was loved.

Kathy is survived by sisters, Joan (Arthur) Gibbs, Beth Grosshans, sister-in-law Eleanor Wanroy, cousin Julia Mae Ford, and aunt Pauline Hons all of Michigan. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, cousins, and her “adopted family” Harry and Judy Cuff, Mandy and Katie and their families and her very special friend Marilyn Beth Hughes Pinkerton. She was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Ruth Ford, sister Virginia Smith, brother-in-laws Chuck Smith and Rich Grosshans and Phil’s twin Paul and Dorothy Wanroy.

Special thanks go to Lynette and the West Park Village staff and Journey Hospice for their care and help. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service was held at West Park Village in Billings, MT. A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, June 8, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Munith Cemetery in Munith, MI. Memorial Contributions may be directed to First Presbyterian Church of Billings, MT or the charity of your choice. Local arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI. Peace, our friend, you are free at last.