Katherine "Kathy" Elaine (Larson) Koehnen

Katherine “Kathy” Elaine (Larson) Koehnen was born August 21, 1961, in Centreville, Illinois. She was the daughter of Robert and JoAnn (Sweeney) Larson. Her childhood spanned several states, leaving her with many fond memories, but most of her younger years were spent in Florida where she had her first job picking oranges. Kathy’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and dedicated mother of three children: Christina, April, and Shawn. She was blessed to raise her granddaughter Katarina as her own. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, and she adored playing with her great-grandchildren. She treasured making lasting memories with each of them. Kathy met the love of her life, Thomas Matthew Koehnen, while operating and working at Smoker Friendly in Colorado. They were united in marriage on October 25, 2003, at Salem Wood Products. Kathy and Tom made Salem, Missouri their home and she started working at the Crossroads Hotel. Kathy’s zest of life extended beyond her family. She loved doing adventures that included outdoors. She possessed a deep appreciation for nature and found peace and joy in kayaking and fishing. Kathy also enjoyed baking. She was an animal lover, her affection particularly extended to her goats and dogs, and she eagerly anticipated welcoming a monkey into her life. Kathy was known for her quick wit and playful teasing, always ready for her next victim, but her genuine kindness and compassion shined through everything she did. She was a peacemaker, the first to offer a helping hand, and a steadfast friend to many. Kathy passed away June 1, 2025, in Shannon County, Missouri, at the age of sixty-three years. She is survived by her loving children: Christina Higgs and husband Cory of Salem, MO, April Kuhn of Salem, MO, and Shawn Kuhn of Grand Junction, CO; grandchildren: Blakelee Mckenna, Destany Kuhn and fiancé Austin McCall, Kiara White and husband Dallas, Katarina Morris and fiancé Justice Major, Drason Higgs, and Abagail Kuhn; great-grandchildren: Ashlyn, Elena, Axel, and Tyson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her husband: Tom Koehnen; parents: Robert and JoAnn Larson; and her sister: Nancy Larson. Kathy lived a life filled with adventure, love, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her legacy will forever be etched into the hearts of those whose lives she touched. Her kindness, humor, and her unwavering love will remain a lasting tribute to a life well-lived. Funeral Services for Katherine “Kathy” Elaine (Larson) Koehnen were held Monday, June 9, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Bro. Aaron Steelman officiating. Special Memories were shared by family and friends. Song selections played were “Lead Me Home”, “I Am Not Okay”, “Carry On Wayward Son”, and “Save You A Seat”. Burial will be in the Jadwin Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of care of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Katherine "Kathy" Elaine (Larson) Koehnen

August 21, 1961 - June 1, 2025