Kathleen Marie Wangerin

Kathleen Marie Wangerin, 66, of Topeka, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025 after a courageous five-year battle with cancer, surrounded by the love and support of her family.

She was born on June 11, 1959, in Seattle, Washington, to Donald and Myrtle Stubb. From an early age, she displayed a love of learning and discipline, excelling in school and enjoying figure skating. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree from San Diego State University. As a way to keep her mind engaged and strong during her cancer treatments, Kathleen maintained a 4.0 GPA while completing several doctoral-level courses through Harvard University.

The most important role in Kathleen’s life was as a mom. As her children grew older, she found fulfillment in giving back to the community, working as a guest teacher at Washburn Rural High School and other schools throughout Topeka. She later owned and operated a research and consulting business, where her insight, dedication, and care for others left a meaningful impact on both her clients and the broader community.

Kathleen and her husband, Richard Wangerin, shared 35 years together in Topeka, Kansas, where they raised their two children, Michael and Brittany. She was deeply involved in her daughter’s ballet, beauty pageants, and dance team, as well as her son’s Cub Scouts and swim team. Kathleen was also a devoted member of Christ the King Parish.

Though her time on this earth has ended, her love and the life she lived remain forever woven into the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her, as she is welcomed into God’s eternal embrace.

Private family services are planned.

To share a memory of Kathleen or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.