Kathleen (Kathy) Ann Kilburg, 77, of Bellevue, Iowa, formerly of Clinton, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center, Dubuque, Iowa. In accordance with Kathy’s wishes cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Pape Funeral Home in Clinton, with a memorial service beginning at 1:00 pm. Burial will take place at Clinton Lawn Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the Copper Mill.
Kathy was born on October 13, 1948, in Davenport, Iowa to Kathleen Denese (Strodtman) and Merle Melvin Lange. She attended Central Community Schools in DeWitt, Iowa and later completed her cosmetology training in Clinton. Kathy was the owner and operator of K&K Hair Designs for 30 years. Kathy married Wayne Edward Kilburg on November 26, 1966, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. They shared 54 memorable years of marriage until Wayne’s passing on November 24, 2020. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Jim Kilburg, who was her devoted companion in her later years.
Kathy will be remembered for her kindness, her love of baking, and her joy in decorating for every holiday, especially Christmas. Above all, she cherished her grandchildren and was devoted to her family. Her generous spirit and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who have the privilege of knowing her.
Survivors include her children, sons Jeff (Amanda) Kilburg and Joe Kilburg; daughter, Angela (Steve) Tutor, stepdaughter, Candace (Clay) Ahrens, and her sister, Lori Manning; brothers and sisters in-law, Jim (late Joan) Kilburg, John (Deanna) Kilburg; 9 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Wayne, brothers Melvin Lange, Thomas Lange, William (Bill) Lange, and grandson Jacob (Jake) Kilburg.
Memorials can be made in honor of her grandson through Impact Life, Group #2067, supporting the Jake Kilburg Memorial Blood Drive. The next blood drive will be held Jun. 18th from 2 – 6 pm at Eagle Point Lodge in Clinton. Memorials may also be given directly to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
Very sorry for your loss. I haven’t seen Joey or Angela since high school but please know that I am thinking of you all during this difficult time.
RIP Kathy! To the family, may your memories bring comfort. I have many fond memories of Kathy over the years. She taught me how to make the best gravy and we shared many laughs She was loved by many.
Kathy was the most amazing grandma and her energy for her family was legendary. I know she will be busy in heaven but without the annoying limitations her earthly body suffered. There is a reunion in heaven!
my heart is broken! I spend so much time as a child with her ! She continued our friendship with phone calls ! I will miss her ! Love her sooo much !