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As received from the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home:
Kathleen Ann Jaaskelainen of New Allouez, Michigan passed away on July 27, 2023 with her family by her side. Kathy was born on May 9,1948 in Laurium, Michigan to John Wade and Phillis (Julio) Wade.
Kathy was a 1966 graduate of Calumet High School and worked as a medical transcriptionist for a local doctor’s office and teacher’s aide at CLK schools throughout her career. She married James Jaaskelainen on April 19, 1969 and celebrated 54 years together.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, John and Phyllis Wade, and her brother Robert Wade. A beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, she is survived by her husband, James, daughters Dawn (Jeff) Jackovich and Kristal Jaaskelainen, her three granddaughters, the greatest loves of her life, Karlie Kargela, Emma Kargela, and Taylor Jackovich, her sister Mary Turner, nieces Debbie (Janet) Turner and Lynn (Dale) Posvic, and several extended family and friends.
Kathy most enjoyed spending time with her family, especially watching her granddaughters play sports and grow into intelligent, strong, beautiful young women. She also loved spoiling them with gifts and displaying all of their handmade art. She was also a devout member of Sacred Heart Church, and even when she was unable to attend mass in person she would attend virtually. When out of town for her granddaughters’ sporting events, Papa Jim would always have to find the nearest Catholic church so that Kathy could attend mass between games. She will be remembered most for lovingly supporting those closest to her, as well as leaving kind Facebook messages for every friend and acquaintance. Her spirit and memory will live on through all that were blessed to know and love her.
A mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church on August 8, 2023 at 11:00am with a luncheon to follow.
Erickson-Crowley-Peterson is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences for the family can be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Ainsley’s HALO (Venmo: @Ainsleys-HALO) or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
