Kathleen Elizabeth Donovan Willgohs
Kathleen Elizabeth Donovan Willgohs, 80, a beloved mother, wife, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 28, 2024. She was born on February 3, 1944, in Zanesville, Ohio, to the late Richard E. Donovant and Anna Deptula Donovan. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Barbara Ries, and her brother, Richard Donovan.
Kathleen married Robert Alan Willgohs on February 20, 1965, after their paths crossed while she was working at a jewelry store owned by Robert’s aunt and uncle. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey, living in Ohio, California, Florida, and Virginia, while raising their three children: Ann Marie, John Robert, and Carol Lyn.
Kathleen was a massage therapist who found joy in helping others through her work. She was an adventurous soul, with a love for the outdoors, gardening, kayaking, traveling, and camping. One memorable moment from a three-week trip from Ohio to California highlights her playful nature. It was Kathleen’s first attempt at driving the motorhome. They were nearing a truck stop and as she was traveling down the off-ramp, Robert reminded her that motorhomes don’t stop like cars do. In response, Kathleen pressed hard on the brakes, sending her family and their belongings flying forward; cabinets swung open, and the floor became littered with various items. When the motorhome came to a stop, John emerged from the bathroom holding an entire medicine cabinet and asked, “What do I do with this?” The moment sparked laughter that captured the essence of Kathleen – an ability to find joy even in chaos. Through all her trials, Kathleen had an uninhibited sense of humor that she held onto to the end.
At the age of 40, Kathleen’s longtime dream came true when she got her first horse, Bergie. This opened the door to years of new experiences, traveling to new places, leisure riding and competitive trail riding, even once claiming the title of Grand Champion. She carried on these passions with Bergie for 25 years, but shared that loved with other horses, Maya, Bear (who preceded her in death in June), and more. Along with the horses, there was always a gaggle of cats, dogs, and chickens.
Kathleen leaves behind a loving legacy to cherish her memory, husband of 59 years, Robert Alan Willgohs; children, Ann Marie Bradley (Kyle), John Robert Willgohs (Erin), and Carol Lyn Nolan (Will); grandchildren, Stephen (Laura), Matt, Josh, Michael, Jacob, Aaron (Allie), and Caelyn; and great-grandchildren, Cameron, with one on the way, Ellie.
