Kathryn M. “Kay” Lechtenberg, 91, of Maquoketa, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday morning, September 29, 2025, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Born on November 11, 1933, in Hornell, New York, Kay was the daughter of Robert Hastings and Eleanor Ann (Brohm) Bronson.  After graduating from high school and completing her education at Mount St. Francis College in Dubuque, Iowa, Kay embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying the love of her life, Dr. Joseph Anthony Lechtenberg Sr., on May 5, 1956, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque. Together, they built a life filled with joy, challenges, and the bustling activity that comes with raising a large and loving family. Kay’s husband, Joseph, passed away before her on January 31, 2010, and she continued to honor his memory through her unwavering commitment to their family.

Outside of the home, Kay worked as an office assistant at Farley and Letcher, brought warmth and care to Sunshine Daycare and Preschool, and supported her husband’s dental practice as an insurance claim submitter and assistant. Her work ethic and dedication to helping others were evident in every role she undertook.

A devout member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kay’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She served as a past member and Regent of St. Raphael #1156 Catholic Daughters of the Americas and was a former member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.

Kay found joy in watching movies, engaging in board games with her children and grandchildren, and tending to her garden in spring and summer.  She especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s school programs and activities and took great pride in their accomplishments.

Kay’s legacy is carried on by her loving children, Mary Pat Burns of Maquoketa, IA, Dr. Joe Lechtenberg Jr. of Baldwin, IA, Ed (Annette) Lechtenberg of Maquoketa, IA, Kurt (Laurie) Lechtenberg of Coralville, IA, Karl Lechtenberg of Bettendorf, IA, Kathy (Rick) Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA, and Annette (Robert) Brasko of Apopka, FL; her daughter-in-law, Sandy Lechtenberg of GA; her adored 11 grandchildren, and her 17 great-grandchildren, who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, her son Robert Lechtenberg, son-in-law Mike Burns, and her brothers Richard and David Bronson.

A funeral mass celebrating her life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the mass on Saturday from 9:30 A.M. to 10:45 A.M., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County.

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