It is with great sadness and yet much joy we share that on Wednesday, December 13th, 2023, our wonderful Mom, sister, and friend, Kathleen Fox, is now in the presence of her Lord. She faced many health issues over the years, especially the last three as we watched her body deteriorate from MSA and other complications. Yet through it all, Kathy's warmth and infectious smile lit up every room she was in.

Kathy was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on May 14th, 1953, to Evert and Shirley Mellema who predeceased her. Growing up she was the spirited child who gave her parents most of their gray hair. She attended Grand Rapids Christian High School followed by Michigan State University, and graduated with a bachelor's degree in finance where she flourished in the banking industry, eventually becoming Vice President in Investor Relations. She left her career in 1989 to pursue her dream job and greatest accomplishment - becoming a mom to Kellen and Jordan. She was the definition of unconditional love, and she lives on through them and the numerous lives she touched.

Kathy was most passionate about her faith and kids. She had zest for life, and always pushed herself to learn and grow. She regularly participated in Bible studies and had an obsession for scrapbooking. She attended ballroom dance, became a Master Gardener, and was a county delegate for the RNC. She had the gift of compassion and took care of her parents in their later years. Kathy had such talent for hospitality and loved to entertain and made the best chocolate chip cookies in the world. She always made everyone feel so welcome and became a second mom to so many. Everyone has a fun Kathy story.

She made us laugh with the way she could turn the ordinary into something hilarious. Her sense of humor was unmatched, and her laughter was infectious. She loved all things pink, her beautiful flower gardens that she meticulously maintained, and spending time with loved ones. And boy, did she love her treats – especially her malt balls.

Kathy will be greatly missed by her children, Kellen Fox and Jordan Fox; her siblings, Randy Mellema, Doug and Robin Mellema, and Cindy and Dennis Sikkema; and so many wonderful friends who loved her and supported her – especially her best friend since grade school, Joyce Bouw, and her "spiritual mom", Bonnie Morril. Kathy leaves behind a huge void in all of our hearts.

The family thanks the incredible caregivers at StoryPoint Rockford for the awesome care all of you provided the last few months. Kathy and her family appreciate you all so much.

Per Kathy's request, a cremation has taken place. An announcement will be re-posted in Spring 2024 for her memorial service.