Kathleen "Kathy" Ann Kilpela, née May, age 66, Iron Mountain, Mich., passed away Saturday, October 20, 2018 at UP Healthsystem, Marquette, Mich., following complications from an extended illness. Kathy was born on January 17, 1952, in Iron Mountain, daughter of the late Edward and Joyce (Grenier) May. She grew up in Niagara, Wis. and graduated from Niagara High School.

On June 19, 1998, she married Gordon Kilpela and they remained devoted partners and friends throughout their marriage. Kathy loved gardening and was especially proud of her tomatoes which she grew and canned each year. She had a flair for art and won a state fair award for one of her drawings. She loved animals and, over the years, had numerous dogs, birds, and other pets.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Gordon; one son, Ryan Kilpela, Iron Mountain; one brother Bruce (Diane) May, La Crosse, Wis.; one granddaughter, Mindy Anderson, Calumet, Mich.; and many nieces and nephews.

Private family visitation and funeral service were held at the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, Mich. Burial was held at Cemetery Park, Iron Mountain.

You may light a candle in remembrance of Kathy or leave a condolence for her family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, to honor Kathy's legacy of life.