After a short and quiet battle with cancer, Kathleen “Kathy” Doman (née Dempsey) passed away peacefully at her home on September 29, 2026, at the age of 70.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 50 years, Glenn Doman; her children, Katherine Doman, Peter (Courtney) Doman, Heidi (Kent) Kilbourn, and Matt Doman; her cherished partner in crime and granddaughter, Roxie Kilbourn; her siblings, Michael (Susan) Dempsey, Maureen (George) Jorgensen, Ann (Randy) Johnson, Trish (Mark) Schrimpf, and Peggy Dempsey; along with hundreds of quilting students and innumerable friends.
She is rejoined with those who crossed over before her: her parents, Terry and Mary Dempsey; her treasured grandson, Thane Kilbourn; as well as her many "Angels."
Born and raised in West Bend, Kathy built a life centered on family, friendship, and creativity. A lifelong quilter, she devoted countless hours to her craft and was widely known as a master quilter and gifted teacher. Through her patience, encouragement, and extraordinary talent, she inspired hundreds of students and shared her love of quilting with all who knew her.
Though quilting was her passion, Kathy's greatest treasures were the people, traditions, and simple pleasures that surrounded her. She was known for bringing people together, whether through the summer parties she and Glenn hosted over the years, her much-anticipated quilting retreat, "Witches Retreat," which became a cherished tradition for many, or through "Stitch for a Cause" at the West Bend Senior Center, where she brought together creativity, craftsmanship, and a desire to help others.
A true free spirit, Kathy was often barefoot and always attentive to the small signs and wonders that others might miss. Her love of roses, memorialized in her tattoos, reflected both her appreciation for the deeper meaning found in everyday life and her belief that signs, connections, and reminders are all around us if we take the time to notice them.
Throughout her cancer journey, Kathy found strength in the love and support of her family, particularly her sister, Trish Schrimpf, who stood by her side with unwavering care, compassion, and friendship.
Kathy’s legacy is one of creativity, generosity, and kindness. She will be remembered for her welcoming spirit, unwavering love for her family, and the countless lives she touched through her teaching and friendship.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kathy's life on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Kettlebrook Community Center, 2378 W. Washington Street, West Bend. A memorial service will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by a celebration of life.