Katherine Rae Bakalars, 53, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 19, 2014 in her beautiful condo. She was born March 11, 1961 to Edward and Marge Bathke in La Crosse.

Kathy had that special gift when you met her to make you feel like you are the most important person in life. She lightened up everyone’s life who came into contact with. Kathy enjoyed golfing, baseball games, traveling, camping and eating out with her special friend Daryl Kuhlmann. She loved entertaining family and friends. A special delight was spending time with her beloved two grandchildren, Phillip and Brianna. She planned many weekend sleepovers, taking them to special places and shopping for them. She was so devoted to her work. Kathy loved going to church and the great year when she and Daryl visited many different churches in the area. When you met Kathy, you knew you have been blessed to have known such a great lady. She was a devoted Mom, Grandma and a friend.

She is survived by her special friend, Daryl Kuhlmann and his children, Joshua, Abbigail, Gabrielle and Callie; sons, Adam Bakalars, Dustin (Nicole) Bakalars; daughter, Erin Bakalars and her children, Phillip and Brianna; mother, Marge Bathke; brothers, Gary Bathke, Mark (Deb) Bathke, Kevin Bathke, Edward (Danielle) Bathke, Kenneth (Heather) Bathke; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Edward Bathke; and brother, Kirk Bathke.

The family would like to thank the staff of the cancer center at Mayo Health System in La Crosse, the 9^th floor personnel of Mayo, especially Tess- you have a special gift, who were so wonderful the last week of her life. Last, thank you Shar of hospice, you are wonderful for your caring and hospitality. God Bless you all for your wonderful care.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Olivet Lutheran Church, 2100 Bainbridge St., La Crosse. Pastor Luanne Sorenson and Pastor David Baldukas will officiate. Visitations will be held on Tuesday, May 27^th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM and also one hour prior to the service, both at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Caner Society, Olivet Lutheran Church, or the present and future grand kids college fund. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.