Kathleen K. (Miller) Appelhans, 71, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on January 25, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer and Parkinson’s disease.

Kathleen Kay Miller was born on February 28, 1952, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Forrest and Dixie (Butt) Miller.  After graduating from Midland Community High School in 1970, she embarked on a path of service and community involvement that would define much of her life. Her first job at the Ben Franklin in Maquoketa was a steppingstone to what would become a lifetime of meaningful work and relationships.

Married to the love of her life, Dennis, on February 20, 1971 in Monmouth, Iowa, they cultivated a life rich with love and hard work on their farm. Kathy’s innate ability to nurture extended beyond her family to the animals she and Dennis raised, from sheep to pigs and cattle, always with a gentle touch and a heart full of compassion.  Her passion for giving knew no bounds, as Kathy poured her energy into the 4H program, serving as a leader and on the 4H Extension Council for a decade.

Kathy’s commitment to her community was evident in her 20 years of tending to the Monmouth Cemetery alongside her sister, Carmin Margeson. Their dedication to this labor of love was a testament to Kathy’s respect for her roots and the history of those who came before her. Her work with the National Agricultural Statistics Service for the USDA became more than just a job; it was an opportunity to connect with local farmers and forge lasting friendships.

Known for her culinary talents, Kathy’s popcorn balls and fudge were more than just treats; they were symbols of her generosity, often donated to auctions and benefits, spreading joy and sweetness wherever they went. Her love of dance began in Stanwood on Saturday nights and continued throughout her life as she and Dennis stepped onto the dance floor with country line dancing.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Dennis, of Monmouth, IA; sons, Dan (Jennifer) of Central City, IA; Matt (Katy) of Anamosa, IA.  She was a proud grandmother to Myranda, Jaclyn, Gabby, Addison, and Garrett, and a delighted great-grandmother to Jameson.  Sister, Carmin Margeson of Baldwin, IA; uncle, George (Pam) Butt of Durand, IL; brother-in-law, David (Gay) Appelhans of Ankeny, IA; sister-in-law, Pam Spain of Maquoketa, IA; nephews, Shad (Ann) Patterson (who was like a 3^rd son to her) of Maquoketa, IA; and Bret Margeson of Bellevue.   She was preceded in death by her parents Forrest and Dixie Miller, father and mother-in-law, Jake and Shirley Appelhans, nephew Nick Margeson, infant brothers Terry and Forrest, 2 brothers-in-law and 1 sister-in-law.

A celebration of her life will held at 10 A.M., Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

The family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of Jackson County.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kathleen K. Appelhans memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.