Catherine J. “Katie” Kroll, age 91, passed away Friday afternoon, February 19, 2021, at Bishop Noa Home in Escanaba.
Katie was born June 8, 1929, in Big Bay, the daughter of Anton and Elizabeth Rose. Katie was raised in Gladstone and was a 1947 graduate of Gladstone High School. Following high school, Katie moved to Milwaukee where she worked for Wisconsin Bell Telephone Company and later for Prudential Insurance Company. On September 1, 1951, Katie was united in marriage to John E. Kroll Sr. and together the couple made their home and raised their family in Escanaba.
Katie was an avid bridge player, a voracious reader, loved to complete crossword puzzles, swimming and taking shopping trips with her daughter Mary Beth. She enjoyed long lunches and an occasional glass of wine. Additionally, Katie and her husband John were original members of St. Thomas Church in Escanaba.
Katie is survived by:
Children: Mark (Carol) Kroll, Mary Beth (John) LaPorte and John (Lori) Kroll Jr.
Grandchildren: Courtney, Rob, Benjamin (Christine), Emily (Jeff), Megan and Allison.
Great Grandchildren: Abby, Benjamin, Catherine, Hannah and Lily
She is also survived by her nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Anton and Elizabeth and her loving husband John, Katie is preceded in death by:
Sisters: Mary E. Rose and Margaret B. Bartol
Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of Catherine “Katie” Kroll will be held on Thursday, at 1:00PM, at St. Thomas Church in Escanaba. Masks and Social Distancing at St. Thomas Church is required. Katie will be laid to rest next to her loving husband John in the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Escanaba in the spring. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
Mark & Carol Kroll - Libby, MT
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’ Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Proverbs 31:25-31
Marge Derkos - Escanaba, MI
My heart breaks for Mary Beth & family. Growing up neighbors, I always knew your mom to have a heart of gold, talked so eloquently & was a class act. Later in life whenever I would see her she would always engage in conversation. She would always want to know how my parents were doing & that spoke volumes of her character. Your mom had her strong faith and now she is with your Dad & Gods comfort & care. Prayers & hugs to you Mary Beth, John & Mark.
Sr. Eden Orlino - Hongkong, SAR China, Ch
John and Katie were good witnesses of Catholic faith and marriage as vocation. Had great admiration and humbling experience when we gave daily communion to them. John was very happy when finally Katie joined him in the same room at BNH. He gives us his big smile every time we bring Jesus, everyday. They are now together enjoying God’s presence. Thank you, John and Katie.
Carol Fawcett - Eau Claire, WI
I remember a warm, fun-loving classmate at GHS.
My condolences,
Carol Cowen Fawcett
Mary Beth LaPorte - Escanaba, MI
My dearest Mom. I loved you and Daddy with all my heart and soul. When I was younger, I would often panic at the thought of losing you. Mom, you were my best friend, my rock, and my greatest cheerleader throughout my life. It was a blessing to be with you when you took your last breath as you were there when I took my first. Father Turk once told me that presence was everything. Words, riches, gifts were meaningless in comparison to being present in the lives of those you loved. You were always present for me and I tried as best I could to be there for you and Daddy whenever you needed me. I often wish I could have done a better job at times, I hope I did not let you down. You and Daddy were the best parents ever, and God bestowed the greatest gift when he gave me to you. You will both live on in my heart and memories every moment of every day until we are someday together again.❤️
Rick & Carol Brazeau - Hudsonville, MI
Mary Beth & all….
Rick & I send you & your family our hugs & everlasting prayers. We are never ready to lose a parent & we must remember all the precious memories they leave with us. Take care of “you” & let your faith be your guide.
Blessings to you all ❤️