Katherine “Kate” Eleanor Wilkes of Webster, NY formerly of Bigler, PA passed away in her home on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at age 85. She was born in Bigler PA on May 26th 1940, the 6th daughter of the late Lawrence and Alice Hynd. Her memory lives on through her husband of 64 years, Glenn and devoted dog Daisy; children, Greg (Carol) Wilkes, Sharon (John) Hewitt and Kari (Eric) Silver; grandchildren, Sarah (Josh) Saeli, Ryan (Anna) Wilkes, Christopher (InHee) and Jay Hewitt, Nina and Macie Silver; 5 great-granddaughters; sister, Christine Hamer; brother, Thomas (Jackie) Hynd; nieces and nephews, as well as the many friends she considered family, including Rebecca Naamarteki Commodore and her children: Natasha and Nathaniel France.

She graduated from Clearfield High School of Clearfield PA in 1958. She then attended PA State University School of Nursing at Phillipsburg State Hospital and graduated in 1961. Kate was always grateful to her eldest sister, Margaret, for pushing her to continue her schooling and pursue a career as a nurse. She spent most of her career at Maplewood Nursing Home in Webster, NY, caring for patients in their final stages of life as if they were her own family, and retired from there after 25 years of service.

Kate was a member of the Webster United Methodist Church where she received recognition for her years of service. She was active at the church in Rebecca’s Circle, Bible studies, leading the welcome hour after church, and was well known for her baking. Her cookies, especially her highly coveted lemon stars, were quick to sell out at UMC’s annual bake sales.

Kate was a skilled craftswoman. Sewing, scrapbooking, flower arranging, gardening, and baking were just a few of her hobbies. She used her talents to brighten the lives of the people around her, making memory books for her family, wedding décor for family friends, and being a long-time participant of the Webster Garden Club. Even now, despite her ability to garden being taken from her years ago, her home garden stays vibrant and beautiful: a testament to her green thumb and eye for design.

Kate was also a family maker, organizing family birthday parties and holiday celebrations so that her children and grandchildren stayed connected. Her family knew her as a woman who always welcomed a visit, whether in person or on the phone, knew exactly what kind of advice to give, and loved unconditionally. Her grandchildren always knew her face would be in the crowd at sports events, concerts, plays, graduation ceremonies, and more.

Katherine more than anything loved to laugh and play. Her wit and penchant for teasing her loved ones stayed a core part of her personality her entire life. Equally as present in her final days was her will, a power that gained her a reputation as a woman who was never afraid to stand up for herself and others.

Friends are invited to her Memorial Service 11:00 AM Saturday, August 2 at Webster Methodist Church, 169 East Main St., Webster, NY 14580. Memorials and donations may be directed to the church.  Willard H Scott Funeral Home.