passed away Monday, October 5, 2009, at St. Elizabeth's hospital in Lincoln. Kathy with a K was born August 4, 1948, in Fremont, Nebraska to Larry and Marilyn Shada. She attended Fremont Public Schools and received her B.A. from Kearney State College and a Ph.D in education from the University of Nebraska. She was soon to gain a Masters degree from UNL in Counseling Psychology at age 61. For the past few years she was a
licensed substance abuse counselor (LADC). She taught for many years, often teaching classes at UNL. She, also, attended many conferences and workshops across the country as a delegate of UNL. She served for several years as a counselor for the Department of Corrections. Throughout her teaching career and her time with corrections she was bestowed with many achievement awards.
Always the teacher, her passion was helping those who found it difficult to help themselves. Kathy had been a friend of Bill W. for 20 yrs. She loved her friends, her 60's music and was an OBG {original Brakemen Groupie}. Her storytelling was renown. She was terribly proud of her very extended family and her Lebanese Heritage.
Kathy, my Love, may God's light shine upon you and give you peace.
Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Phil of Lincoln; stepson & family,
Jed, Julie, Josh & Anthony Marsh, Sacramento; brother Jeff Shada & family,
Debbie, Megan & Zach, Livingston, Montana; Surrogate Sister Pam Hill, Kearney;
Sisters-in-law, Beth Dorste & Sharon Watkins, Omaha.
The Memorial Service will be Saturday October 10, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Chapel.
Friends may sign the guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Ludvigsen Mortuary in Fremont is in charge of arrangements.
Condolences(37)
Judy Blacketer
Omaha, NE Friday, October 16, 2009 Phil, I am very sorry for your loss. I worked with Kathy at Corrections. Kathy was an inspiration for all who met her. She had a special caring for those she counseled and truly believed in their ability to recover. She will be greatly missed. Judy BlacketerKyra Kitto
Lincoln, Ne Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Phil & Family, I met Kathy several years ago, & she was a cheerful & careing person whenever I saw her. I will miss not seeing her,espicially at the large gatherings many of us go to. I'm so sorry for your loss. Kyramike moorhead
lincoln, ne Wednesday, October 14, 2009 I would like to express my sorrow for your loss of Kathy. I worked with her in the Dept of Corrections as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I always enjoyed her sense of humor and her ability to express her opinions, usually very frank and open. She would visit with me at Super Saver during her shopping and my working there. Her smile and sharing will be greatly missed. My wife passed away on August 21, 2009 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital also THe staff there were so caring and loving to her and always helpful to me and our daughter during her hospitalization. I used the expression" Free at last" for my wife's pain and suffering and I hope Kathy did not suffer much. From another person in Recovery also. Yours truly Mike MoorheadAli T.
Columbus, NE Tuesday, October 13, 2009 My thoughts are with you in this time of loss. Kathy was in one of my UNL classes, and will be greatly missed. - AliCathy Hollins-Schubert
Fremont, NE Saturday, October 10, 2009 Dear Phil, Jeff, and extended Family, My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. May your fond memories and the support of friends and family sustain you.Becky Spencer
, TX Saturday, October 10, 2009 I am truely sorry for your loss.. She was an awesome lady.. She always asked how I was doing and what was going on in my life... I really enjoyed seeing her at Renunion things.. She was very funny and cheerful.. I really wish I could be up there for my mom and to say goodbye to her.. She is defiantly doing good work where she is now.. She was always a teacher and made everyone smile... My thoughts and Prayers are with you at this time.. She will be missed by many.. Sincerely, BeckyDee Ann Devoe Wood
Castaic, Ca Saturday, October 10, 2009 It is always such a shock to lose someone the same age as you. I've known Kathy since junior high. We were both on the yearbook staff and we were in other high school classes and activities together. She was always so happy, and so friendly to everyone. I always looked forward to seeing her at our Class of '66 reunions and there will forever be a void at future ones. My sincere condolences to you, Phil, and to all her friends and family. Dee Ann Devoe WoodNick and Nicole Effle
Lincoln, NE Saturday, October 10, 2009 Phil and family, Our condolences to all of you on this difficult day. Although I only met Kathy a couple of times, from working with Phil I feel as though I know her very well! I envy the way you spoke about her Phil, the love in your eyes, the look on your face when she called in early in the morning to speak to you first thing. I only hope that others can be lucky enough to share their lives in such a loving, devoted, relationship as the two of you had. Our prayers are with you and your family. Take comfort knowing all of the lives that have been touched by Kathy, and the lasting impact she will have in our world. She was a truly amazing woman, and I pray you all find peace and comfort knowing she has been welcomed by the Lord to a better place, and we will see her again soon. You are in our thoughts, Nicole and Nick Effle and familyJerry and Jim Ladd The Six Wild Brakmen
Fremont, Ne Friday, October 9, 2009 Kathy you are a Original member of the Brakmen. You always were there. You always will be. Your smiling face and full support of our Band will be missed Greatly. We will feel your presances everytime we play. Our hearts are with you. Till We Meet Again. God be with You and her our Prayers. Sadly Jerry and JimCathy & John McQuinn
Lincoln, NE Friday, October 9, 2009 Dear Phil - We just read of Kathy's passing this evening. We are shocked and saddened for your loss. Words seem inadequent at this time, but know that you are in our hearts as will be Kathy forever.Jay & Gitta Brown
ceresco, Ne Friday, October 9, 2009 From a mentor, grew friendship, from that friendship grew love.... As much as you will be missed, you left our hearts full of a joy that has outlasted your life-time. With this joy will you remain forever a part of us and a light that will shine because of you for others to remember too. Our sincere condolences to Kathy's family and the community she lived for. Gitta and JayJudy Yacio
Arlington, TX Friday, October 9, 2009 The shock of suddenly losing our Kathy so quickly is overwhelming. She had such a big heart. Phil, I will miss her emails. I truly understand your loss and know only God can walk with you on this painful journey, but remember that you are in my heart and prayers. Grieving is an individual experience for each of us - she will always be a part of you, but the sadness in the physical loss is tough. Take care of yourself. My heartfelt condolences also go to Jeff - she also loved you dearly. Love and Hugs, JudyBob Capps and Jim Ladd
Omaha and Fremont, Ne Friday, October 9, 2009 Our thoughts and prayers to each of you during this trying time. Kathy was a good friend and we will miss her. Bob Capps and Jim LaddChris Meyer & Jan Jorgensen
Cleveland, OH Friday, October 9, 2009 We were deeply saddened to learn of Kathy's untimely passing. We send thoughts of sympathy and comfort to Phil, the family and to Kathy's many, many friends. She will be remembered by us and by a host of others for her energy, her selflessness and the countless kindnesses she gave out to those around her. Her unfailingly positive attitude was an inspiration. We are thankful that we were able to spend some time with Kathy and Phil when we were in Nebraska for our wedding this last June. We will remember those moments always, along with the class reunions Kathy helped to plan, her enthusiasm for our High School and its activities, her sense of humor and the graciousness she showed to all around her. We regret that we cannot attend the services to express our condolences directly. However, you are all in our thoughts and our prayers. Chris & JanMelanie Dawn Garringer
Lincoln, Ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Kathy, You made me smile, laugh, and love life again. I don't know what it will be like not being able to hear your loving voice! I will miss you more than you know! I love you with all my heart. You are truly my Angel.mike sitorius
omaha, ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil and family, I am sorry to hear of Kathy's passing. Kathy was always upbeat and made all around her feel so good and positive about themselves and what they were doing. I enjoyed her humor and her kind way. This goes for Phil also. We all will miss her greatly. My thoughts and prayers to all the family. Mike SitoriusLois Woods
Lincoln, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil, I'm so sorry for your loss. Kathy and I go back over 20 years. The memories we shared will have a special place in my heart. I will never forget her. She was more than a friend she was a big part of my family and I can't describe the loss I feel. She truly gave of herself to help others and believed in them when they couldn't believe in them selves. She just sent me an email about angels amoung us....she was one of those angels. Phil I'm here for you. My love to you. Love, LoisSally Ganem
Lincoln, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 The shock and sadness of Kathy's death is ever present. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with the family and we are so truly sorry for the loss. Kathy is more than cousin, but a friend as well and will never be forgotten. Our love to you, Sally Ganem, Dave Heineman, Sam and Jessica HeinemanAmanda Shada
Lincoln, Ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil and family, Words cant explain how great Kathy was! She was a great influence on many people no matter the age. She will be missed by everyone. I will never forget all the family reunions and family get togethers. She always had a bright out look on life and never was there a dull moment when she was around. You could hear her laugh from a mile away. Kathy is dancing with the angels now and looking over all of us. She will never be forgoten. My prayers and thoughts go to you and your family love AmandaJIM & Kelly Kantaras
Kearney, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009Sonja Morgan ( Deb Prices Daughter)
Beatrice, Ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Kathy will be missed by many. My eyes welled up with tears when my mom called. Phil I am so sorry for your loss Kathy was a treasure that will be missed. I hold a special place in my heart for her. My prayers for you and your family during this time. SonjaMarlene Rhodus Sellers
Omaha, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 I was so shocked and saddened to read of Kathy's death. Kathy and I taught together at the Learning Center in Fremont in the late '70's and I spent many fun hours with her in Lincoln while I worked on a Masters degree from UNL during the '80's. I will never forget her and all the good times we had at vocational conferences. Her smile always lit up a room and she provided so much for so many. Phil, though I never met you, I know you must be one special guy because Kathy chose you to be her life-long love.sharon barry and jeff wathen
lincoln, ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 through the years i've known kathy,she was a classy gal,she'd lend a ear to be concerned and listen.glad to have known her.thank goodness she did so many great things with her talents...she will be missed...phil,we give our heartfelt sympathy to you and family.Jalyn Todd
Lincoln, Ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Dear Phil and Family, I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time. Jalyn ToddLance Hamm
Kingsville, TX Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil, My family and I are very saddened. As you know, Kathy and I have been friends since the early 80's when we first met and became friends at the old Sidetrack Tavern in Lincoln. She was a "regular" and I was just a student at UNL that wanted to be a regular at the tavern. Her personality was larger than life, always wanting to laugh and make people laugh. I'm sure it was her personality and friendliness that drew me to her in those early years. How lucky I have been to have her as a friend. Over the years our friendship flourished and included many fond memories. She visited me in New Orleans and we went to the Husker football game at the Sugar Bowl. She was in Washington D.C. and I visited her there as we took in all the sites. A couple of years ago my family came back to Lincoln and she could not get off work to meet us for lunch, so we went to her - a fond memory of my girls playing on the playground equipment outside the correctional facility in SW Lincoln where she worked and Kathy, Kim (my wife) and I just having a pleasant conversation sitting on the picnic table watching the girls play. You both were true friends, even making the effort to visit Kim and I in my hometown of Daykin, meeting the locals and my family, Phil, you and Kathy are family. Best wishes always. Kathy, my friend, I will wait until again we have another visit, but until then, "L'Enfant," ...(an inside joke from our time in Washington DC which was always good for a laugh between us). As I wipe the tears from my eyes, I conclude by saying I will miss you, my friend. Lance, Kim, Sadie, Sabrina, & Sophia Hamm.The staff of Safety and Risk Management at MSU-BZN
Bozeman, MT Thursday, October 8, 2009 The staff of Safety and Risk Management at Montana State University offer our condolences to the Shada and Marsh families. Jeff is very special to us and we feel his loss. Sisters are too wonderful to lose so early.Shannon Kephart
Lincoln, NE, Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil, Kathy was a shining star and she helped a lot of us at H.C.R.C. Her laugh and smile will be missed very muchRenee Alfaro
Spring, TX Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil: I wish I lived closer so I could be there to support you during this difficult time. Kathy was a very special person who blessed everyone she met. She spent so much time at my grandmother's house while I was growing up and I remember her and her parents spending just about every holiday with us. She was like another big sister to me. Now, what I seem to remember most, is her infectious laugh. I will forever cherish all those wonderful memories. My love and prayers are with you at this time. ReneeDeb Price
Lincoln, Ne Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil, I am shocked and so very sad. I feel so blessed to have seen Kathy a few weeks ago. I remember so clearly the first time I met her some 20 years ago and I knew I would love her. I will miss her dearly. My heart aches yet I will hold her in it forever. God Bless and keep you as you move through this difficult time in your life and know that you are in my prayers. DebSheila Burdock
Lincoln, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil you and Kathy are both such a treasured memory. You both have hearts of gold and I know I haven't seen ya'll in a while but I know this loss is so huge to all of the lives Kathy touched. She was without a doubt, one of the best people I could say I knew in my life. I know the road ahead isn't going to be an easy one without her. My familes thoughts are with you at this time. Ron & Sheila Burdock and family (Pat&Bonnie's oldest daughter)Cindy Burns
Omaha, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil: Words cannot begin to express my sympathy. Kathy was such a special woman, as you well know, so caring and compassionate. She will truly be missed. I know you will never forget her and neither will I. Tim, Cindy Burns and familyNicole Shada-Pruitt
Middletown, RI Thursday, October 8, 2009 Phil, I am so sorry and so very sad. Kathy was a huge influence and part of my life. I looked to her as a second mother over the years. Even though I have not spent a lot of time with her since I have moved to Rhode Island she was always close in my heart. I will forever cherish all of the memories I have of her and of you. Thank you to both of you for all you have done for me. I am a better person for having her in my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. NicolePeggy Gaughenbaugh Dudley
Aurora, Ne Thursday, October 15, 2009 Hi Phil and Family, I've known Kathy since we were 6 years old at Northside School in Fremont. I always enjoyed her friendship-she was such a happy-go-lucky person. Was so sorry to hear of her passing. Our class reunions won't be the same without her. It sounds like you had a very lovely relationship-I'm so glad that she had that in her life. Please accept my sincerely sympathy. Peggy DudleyBonnie Hamlin
Lincoln, Ne Wednesday, October 7, 2009 Phil, I am so sorry for your loss. Kathy was one of sweetiest ladies I had ever met. I will forever be grateful for having her in my life. You two were one of the first couples Pat and I bonded with shortly after we hit Lincoln. I will always remember the fun nights after our Friday group, at your house. The music you guys played, the singing. And let us not forget the campouts/or the card playing / the BBQ's/the holiday singing and the hot chocolate. Kathy had a way about her. She knew how to listen, she could make you laugh not matter what was going on and she would listen and cry with you if that is what was needed. I remember her coming with me to take Pat to Omaha. She was right there for me. Though our lives had changed and we didn't get to see each other as often we stayed in touch. I will miss this beautiful lady more than I can say. I have some comfort knowing Pat was there to greet her. Take care my friend and let me know if there is anything, I mean anything I can do. Love and Prayers BonnieVickie Daharsh
Lincoln, NE Thursday, October 8, 2009 Dear Phil and family, I am so sorry to hear of Kathy's passsing. We,spent many moments early in our friendship of laughter and tears. I know what an impact Kathy had on so many lives, not just mine. I am so happy she was a part of my sobriety. May God bless you all at this time of your loss and always. My prayers are with you, VickieChris Shada-Legband
Fremont, Friday, October 9, 2009 Phil - Although our communication has been here and there over the years, no matter when, Kathy always had time to listen and offer her wisdom and love. I hope she knew how very much I appreciated her attempts to help some of my closest family members understand addiction and how to help rather than enable. Her selfless gift of putting others first is truly an inspiration to me and I am proud to have called her family. May God hold you in his arms during this difficult time.Dan and Sue Anderson
Lincoln, NE Friday, October 9, 2009 Jeff and Debbie, We were so sorry to hear about Kathy's passing and send you our thoughts and prayers of sympathy. Always, Dan and Sue