Kathy Semke

Mary Kathelene Margaret Semke, 67, of Jefferson, passed away Feb. 9 after a brave battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Kathy was born on Dec. 23, 1952, to Ward Duffy and Katherine Jobusch in Jefferson. After graduating from Jefferson High School in 1971, she went on to study at the University of Iowa.

She began her first medical job as a nurse’s aide at the age of 14. In 1983, she became a certified respiratory technician. After additional education in 1993, she became a registered respiratory therapist.  

Kathy went back to school and earned her bachelor of science degree in 1996. She worked for many years as a respiratory therapist at Greene County Medical Center and Guthrie County Hospital.

Always learning, Kathy went to Des Moines University and earned her physician assistant certification in 2003.

In 1972, she met Terry Semke, and they wed on Aug. 10, 1973, going on to have two children, Ted Semke and Tom Semke.  

When Kathy had Ted and Tom, she decided to dedicate her life to being a fantastic and wonderful mother. Kathy excelled at propping up her boys and their families and supporting them through the many passions and difficulties of their lives. She made it her mission to improve the lives of her family.

Kathy was a passionate gardener, and when she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found in her yard making it beautiful.  She loved to travel and be outdoors. Kathy loved and cared for many animals throughout her life. 

She spent so much time with her grandchildren and enriched their lives more than words can express. She was known as “Jena” to them.  We will miss her greatly.

Kathy was predeceased by her parents.

She is survived by her husband, Terry Semke; her brothers: Jim Duffy and Matt Duffy; her sons: Ted Semke and Tom Semke (Makala Semke); seven grandchildren: Spencer Semke, Carter Semke, Haley Semke, Gretta Semke, Nicole Semke, Lindsey Semke and Trevon Semke; and many family and friends.

A memorial service for Kathy was held Feb. 14 at Central Christian Church in Jefferson, with words of comfort by Peg Semke, Donna Sutton and Mark Rasmussen.

Makala Semke read “Love You Forever.” Chris Constantine read “Letter to My Friend.”

Music included “Amazing Grace,” “Shall We Gather by the River,” “If I Die Young,” “Face to Face,” “Faith” and “Colors of the Wind,” with song leaders Mike Semke and Mark Rasmussen, and accompanist Rita Rasmussen.

Honorary bearers were Spencer Semke, Carter Semke, Haley Semke, Greta Semke, Nicole Semke, Lindsey Semke and Trevon Semke.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home assisted the family.