Kathryn J. Geissbuhler passed away peacefully on October 10, 2023, at Upland Hills Health in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Born on October 23, 1930, to Horace and Avis Van Matre, Kathryn lived her life with spirit, generosity, and a loving heart.
Kathryn was a proud graduate of Darlington High School, class of 1948 and furthered her education at State Teachers College Platteville graduating in 1951. She then taught elementary school in Lanark, IL for several years. On October 10, 1953, she married the love of her life, Paul “Rudy” Geissbuhler at the Fayette United Methodist Church. In 1955, Kathryn joined Rudy stationed in New Jersey where he was serving in the U.S. Army. After service, they returned to Fayette and raised a family. Kathryn moved to Darlington in October 2012.
Kathryn became a beloved figure in various communities, having served lunches at the Fayette School, leading Fayette 4-H Club Explorers, supporting the Fayette Cemetery Association and countless other local organizations. She remained a lifelong teacher sharing her knowledge and wisdom in Sunday school, Bible school, and most happily with her grandchildren. Kathryn's commitment to her faith was steadfast as a devoted member of the United Methodist Church of Fayette and later the Immanuel United Church of Christ and the Women’s Guild.
Kathryn was known for her passion for bowling. She participated in state and national bowling tournaments, earning many patches and trophies. Her competitive spirit and spunk made her a force to be reckoned with in all aspects of her life.
In the kitchen, Kathryn was an excellent cook and baker. She loved sharing her talents with loved ones, neighbors and friends. Kathryn was a meticulous housekeeper, and she had high expectations for her garden, flowers and yard as a testament to her hard work and attention to detail. Her home was always a welcoming and beautiful place, reflecting her gracious spirit and warm heart.
Kathryn is survived by her children: Barbara (John Kircher) Geissbuhler, Bruce Geissbuhler, Karl (Mary) Geissbuhler, Sue (Chuck) Wiegel and Brian (Donna) Geissbuhler; her brother Ray (Jean) Van Matre, daughter-in law JoAnn Geissbuhler.
16 grandchildren: Joel, Niklaus, Aric Geissbuhler, Emily (Geissbuhler) Wilhelmson; Kyle and Ryan Geissbuhler, Jessica (Geissbuhler) Bulman; Melissa (Wiegel) Pickett, Paul Wiegel, Becca (Wiegel) Golackson; Lee, Brett and Drew Geissbuhler, Megan (Rufenacht) Schilt, Dan Rufenacht, Emily (Rufenacht) Murray, and 26 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents & siblings Iona (LaVerne) Loken, Roger (Dianna) Van Matre, Donald (Roseanna) Van Matre and Jim (Sylvia) Van Matre.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Darlington (339 E. Louisa St.), at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Robert Wilkins and Rev. Todd Hackmann officiating. The burial will be held at the Fayette Cemetery in Fayette Township. A visitation will be held Wednesday, October 18, 2023, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the church and on Thursday October 19, 2023, from 10:00 AM- 10:45 AM. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please support the Fayette Cemetery Association.
