Kathy L. Anderson

Kathy Lynn Anderson
May 23, 1960 - March 30, 2016

Kathy Lynn Anderson, fighter, good-luck charm, and devoted wife and mother, died on Wednesday, March 30th, after a long battle with illness. She died surrounded by her loving family, best friend, Kim, and “adopted son” Bryan.

Kathy loved her family and friends, the dogs, collecting Precious Moments, scratch-off tickets, laying out at the pool, talking on the phone, Coke, shopping trips, Hawaii and cooking her staple recipes — chicken picatta, cheesy potatoes and party mix. Most of all, despite her ongoing physical pain, Kathy loved being there for others. She was an incredible listener who lived her life focused on those around her.

Kathy was born in Rockford, Illinois, where she attended Jefferson High School and earned her GED. Kathy went on to earn her Associate's Degree at Rockford Business College while working fulltime and raising two small children as a single parent. She held various positions as an executive assistant throughout her career. When unable to work at a traditional job due to her illness, Kathy continued to strive to be a productive person in every aspect of her life (such as planning her infamous garage sales).

Kathy is survived by her devoted husband, Russ, who adored her throughout their 25-year marriage. Brought together by common personal adversities, Kathy and Russ became best friends, and the rest is a beautiful history. They created a happy, crazy, love-filled life for their children, Nicholas, Jena and Jade (and many, many dogs). Their memories of her include many laughs (the stories can’t be shared here), meaningful talks in the kitchen (and phone calls, too) about every aspect of their lives, and the privilege of knowing her as more than just a mother — but as a true friend. Their favorite attribute of Kathy’s was that she was never judgmental, but unconditionally accepting. They were able to share her with others, too, as Kathy was the “other mom” to many. She had a unique way of seeking out those who needed someone to be there for them. Her children could not be more proud of that.

Those who love Kathy knew her as a fighter. Even in her final days, she was more concerned with the wellbeing of her family and friends than she was with her own — just as she was her entire life. She held on to life so that she could be there for those she loved. She was thrilled to spend her last days with her first granddaughter, Haley, the daughter of Nicholas and his wife Laura. In memory of our dear Kathy, keep fighting for whatever it is in life that you love.

She was the daughter of Jack, deceased, and Betty Parks, and is survived by her brothers Garland Parks and Michael Parks, her nieces and great nephews.

Memorial Service at 3pm Sunday April 3, 2016 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home 1860 S. Mulford Road, with Pastor Wayne Hodges officiating. Visitation will be Sunday April 3,2016 from 2pm until 3pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in memory of Kathy to Heartland Hospice whose kind and loving care has helped so many in difficult times. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com