Kathleen Neikirk was born in Monroe, Michigan on March 18, 1948.   She was one of six children born from the union of the late William Neikirk and the late Josephine Joanna (Grastich) Neikirk.   She received her diploma from Monroe High School.

Kathy married the love of her life, John Stump, on March 26, 1966 in Monroe.   From this union came the birth of two daughters.   Kathy cared for the needs of her family as a homemaker.   She had an enormous heart and was always loving and very understanding, but she was not afraid to be stern when she needed to be.   John often considered himself blessed and let it be known to everyone that Kathy was the best wife in the world.   No matter what she prepared, Kathy was a fabulous cook.   

Kathy always made time to stop and smell the roses.  She loved to be one with nature.   Gifted with a green thumb, she enjoyed tending to her gardens.   Her flowers were beautiful, and her vegetables were often canned to enjoy all year round.   She could be found fishing in the creek behind her home, often joined by her neighbor.   Throughout the years, she raised many parakeets, cockatiels, and finches.  She filled her yard with birdfeeders to encourage visits from her winged friends, namely butterflies, hummingbirds, and cardinals.

For the past several years, Kathleen, looked forward to annual, sister trips to Las Vegas where they would take in a show each year.   For many years, until her hands no longer allowed it, she was an avid quilter.   

Kathleen Stump, age 72, a lifetime resident of Monroe, passed away at 10:38am on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Medilodge of Monroe.   In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by her brother:  Alva Neikirk, and one sister:  Betty Froehlich, a daughter:  Joanna Owens.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her beloved husband of fifty-four years:  John of Monroe; her loving daughter:  Cassandra Allison of Monroe; and two sisters:  Katherine (Tony) Norman of Quincy and Mary C. Neikirk of Monroe; brother:  Franklin T. (Loretta) Neikirk of Monroe; seven grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

No public services are planned.   Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.