Kathleen E. Carlson

Kathleen E. Carlson, 52, Belvidere, IL, passed away on Wednesday August 14, 2024, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born September 15, 1971, in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Norman and Martha (Peper) Carlson. Kathleen married her longtime partner, Michelle, on February 9, 2015. 

At an early age, Kathleen was interested in sports and was on local softball teams. She also played drums as a hobby and was a member of the Phantom Regiment Cadets in the 1980's. Kathleen graduated from Rockford Lutheran High School (class of 1989). She lived in both Wisconsin and Illinois as an adult. A lifelong animal lover, Kathleen worked as Operations Director at Meyer's Tail's Up Farm in Belvidere, IL for over 20 years. Kathleen was a people person and loved talking to her customers about their dogs. Over the years, Kathleen had many dogs and cats as pets. Her favorite cat, Fisher, was a polydactyl (extra toes). 

Kathleen is survived by her wife, Michelle Carlson (Haupt), daughter Samantha Straka Maggio (Anthony), Byron, IL, son Dominic Straka (Sydnie), Montfort, WI, grandson Able, and her brother John Carlson, Fairfax, CA. She is preceded by her parents Norman and Martha. The family wants to thank Kathleen's best friend Tawyna Trudo and her entire family (Jen, Shane, Dave & Mary, and Anita) for all of their love and support.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford. To share memories or extend condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to American Kidney Fund (https://kidneyfund.org/) or PAWS Humane Society (https://pawshs.org/).

The family will host a celebration of life luncheon from 3:30pm to 5pm on Tuesday August 20th, 2024 at Meyer's Tail Up Farm at 5390 Irene Road, Belvidere, IL 61109. Look for a white tented area when arriving at the dog kennel.