Obituary
Kay Lou Westlie
Kay Lou Westlie, age 78, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026. Kay was born to Ralph and Maxine Showers on March 8, 1948. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, and a cherished grandmother and friend—the heart of her family and the light in every room. Her presence had a way of making people feel instantly at ease. No matter who you were or where you came from, she welcomed you with open arms and an open heart. She believed, simply and powerfully, in accepting people exactly as they are, and in doing so, she created a space where everyone felt seen, valued, and loved.
She graduated from Central High School in La Crosse in 1966 and went on to attend Western Wisconsin Technical Institute, where she studied accounting. She began her professional career as a secretary in the credit department at Trane Company in La Crosse, where she worked for seven years. She later worked at the United Credit Union in La Crosse for a year and a half, before finding the job she loved going to at Park Bank in Holmen. There, she built a fulfilling career and remained until her retirement.
She found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. Whether it was sharing a conversation over coffee, laughing with friends and family, or quietly enjoying a peaceful moment, she embraced each day with contentment and gratitude. Social by nature, she thrived on connection—building friendships that lasted a lifetime and strengthening the bonds of family with her steady, loving presence.
Her positivity was not loud or showy, but constant and genuine. She had a gift for lifting others up, for finding the good in every situation, and for reminding those around her that life is meant to be appreciated, not rushed. She didn’t just live her life—she loved it, every single day.
In her later years, she faced the challenges of Lewy Body Dementia with quiet strength and grace. While the disease gradually took its toll, it never diminished the love she gave or the impact she had on those around her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gary Westlie of Holmen; her daughter, Tami (Lance) Bagstad; her son, Paul (Jennifer) Westlie; and her cherished grandchildren, Tyler (Jennah – Nova) and Jillian Bagstad, and Wynndham and Kaina Westlie. She is also survived by her brother, Daniel (Joan) Showers, and their sons, Zachary (Crystal – Brayden, Ellah) and Jared (Holly – Jalen, Karter, Eligh, & Haleigh); as well as her closest friend, Nola.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, in the laughter she inspired, and in the love she gave so freely. She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her spirit forward, guided by her example of kindness, acceptance, and joy.
She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.
A memorial service will be held 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 10, 2026, at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street Onalaska, WI. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
All memorials will be sent to Lewy Body research.
Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family with arrangements.
So sorry to read this. I always liked Kay, first met her at Bank of Holmen(Park Bank now). Was a wonderful woman. Prayers and thoughts to all of her family and friends, will be missed.
Thank you Joan from Gary and family.
Our sincere condolences to Kay’s family. Kay was, as described in her well written obituary. She was positive, lighthearted, full of fun and laughter! She and I took Spanish, and spoke it together at her house at lunch. Years later I tried to read what she wrote in my yearbook. Her last laugh was on me as she wrote everything in Spanish. We, your friendly lunch circle, will miss you. Adios mi Amiga, Kay! Ya amor usted! ❤️ Sue Ann Gregory O’Brien
Thank You Sue; Kay shared with me on occasions some of your good friendship and times you and her had. Gary and Family
So sorry for your family’s loss. She was always such a nice person. 🙏
Thank You Diana. Gary and family
I extend to you Gary and your loving family on the loss of your loved one, Kay. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May she rest in peace. God’s Bessings to all.
Nancy Stellflue
Thank you Nancy. Gary and Family
Sorry for your loss. She was such a sweet lady!
Thank you John. Yes she was.
Gary and Family
So sorry for your loss, may she rest in peace.
Thank You Lila
Gary and family
Gary I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Thank you Marion
Gary and family
Gary and family, so sorry for your loss. Kay was kind, fun-loving friend. Many memories of group gatherings with all of us.
Thank you Mike n Joan
Gary and family
Gary, my prayers go out to you and your family. It’s been a long time but you are not forgotten. Be well my friend and know that she is in a better place.🙏
Thanks for not forgetting me old friend. Hope everything is well with you and family. I know where Kay is and I hope to be with her again.
Gary
Gary and family so sorry to hear about Kay’s passing. You guys were good neighbors when you lived in our neighborhood. Gary you were great to work with you have Carole and my sympathy.
Gary and family. so sorry to hear of your loss.
Thank You Jeff and Pam.
Gary and family
Thank you Dave and Carole and the same kind words back to you.
Gary and family
Thank you Dave and Carole and the same kind words back to you.
Gary and family
I am so sorry for your loss. Kay was a very dear friend, will miss her so much.
Thank you. Kay enjoyed the lunch times you and her had.
Gary and family
Thinking of you and praying that tomorrow will be a day of peace. Peace for Dear Sweet Kay, and peace for you too. Your love for Kay was so evident to all of us who loved her too. God Bless you and your family as you say good bye for now. We will remember all the good times we had every week at our breakfast outings. We love you both! Ron & Jan
Thank you for such kind words. She enjoyed our breakfast outings with our group of friends. Gary & family