Kathryn J. Markofski

PORTAGE  --  Kathryn J. Markofski, of Portage, passed away at her home on Tuesday, March 4, 2014, at the age of 90.

Kathryn was born on September 16, 1923 in Lodi Township to Maurice and Clara (Knuteson) Johnson. She was raised on a farm in the Town of Dekorra.  Kathryn was united in marriage to Donald “Moe” Markofski on June 28, 1952.  He preceded her in death on May 16, 1989.  She resided in Portage all of her adult life and was employed at the Weyenberg Shoe Factory in Portage until it closed.  Kathryn later worked many summers at Del Monte in Arlington, as well as babysitting after her retirement.  She loved cats, and took care of many over the years.  She leaves behind her cat, Molly.  Kathryn enjoyed baking for others and she spent much of her time writing cards and notes to those she loved. 

She is survived by her sister, Sandra (Richard) Dieckhoff, Oconomowoc;  her step-son, Donald (Elaine) Markofski, Jr., California, and his children, Melissa (Kristofer Jennings) Markofski, Brian (Katie) Markofski, and Matthew Markofski;  her great-grandson, Ethan Jennings;  her brother-in-law, Dean (Mary) Duddeck, Beloit;  many nieces and nephews, other relatives and dear friends.  Since she had no children of her own, she was very close to all of her siblings and their families.  She was a very generous giver to both family and friends.  Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother, Vernon “Buzz” Johnson and two sisters, Mariel Johnson and Carolyn Duddeck, and a sister-in-law, Grace Johnson.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 10, 2014 at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with Robert Eberhardt and Travis Wagner officiating.  Inurnment will be private.  Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on Monday at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage.