Kathleen (Kay) Martell, age 62, passed away surrounded by loved ones on July 8, 2022, at Westfields Hospital in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Kay was the 5th child born to Larry and Janet (Flandrick) Martell on July 30, 1959.
As the middle child, Kay wanted the freedom of the older kids along with the lesser responsibilities of the younger ones. This led to her endearing “wild child” personality. She was adventurous well into her adulthood. Kay graduated from Somerset High School in 1977.
A few years later Kay married Mick Johnson on Sept 20, 1980. During their 19-year marriage, Kay had 2 sons. Nicholas was born in February 1983 and Tyler was born in May 1986. Kay taught her sons to be practical, respect others, and the importance of education. Through Kay’s parenting and love, Nicholas and Tyler have become good men and Kay was so proud of them.
Kay was a stepmother to Mick’s older children Miranda and Chamie. Kay loved Miranda and Chamie like her own and created a solid, blended family unit.
Despite life’s challenges, Kay was strong and independent. Underneath the strength, she was a compassionate, caring person. She cared for her family and friends through acts of kindness, financial help, and notes of encouragement. She was a good listener too. Kay also had a great sense of humor. Her jokes were often risque, drawing out giggles and blushing from many.
Over the years, Kay enjoyed rock and roll music, dancing with friends (until she could hardly stand), riding her peach-colored Harley, participating in pool and bowling leagues, barrel racing with her horse Sugarbabe, playing softball, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers.
Kay had varied work experiences. She began work at Andersen Window and Door Corporation in 1987, working for many years in different positions. She also drove school buses for the New Richmond public schools. She was small but mighty.
Kay volunteered in different capacities over the years including the New Richmond community ambulance service. Kay ended the summer of 2000 with an Emergency Medical Technician certification. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years. Kay was a hard worker to support her family, take care of herself, and contribute to her community.
Kay was preceded in death by her father, Larry Martell, and a nephew Josh Derrick.
Kay is survived by her sons, Nicholas Johnson and Tyler Johnson; her stepdaughters, Miranda Johnson, Chamie Alvarez (and their children); and her mother, Janet (Flandrick) Martell. Kay is also survived by her sister, Carol (Jerry) Parsons, sister, Angie (William) Smith, sister, Rochelle Kelley, brother, Keith (Becky) Martell, brother, Harold (Tresa) Martell, sister, Dianne (Tim) Schweitzer, sister, Helen (Don) Derrick, brother, Loren (Orvilla) Martell, and many nieces and nephews (who called her Auntie Kay-Kay). She is also survived by her former spouse Mick Johnson. There are many, many family and friends who will miss her deeply.
A visitation for Kay will be held on Thursday, July 14th from 3 – 6 pm at Cullen Crea Funeral Home, New Richmond.
In lieu of flowers or money, please make donations to one of the following non-profits in Kay’s memory.
Gregory’s Gift of Hope, New Richmond – animal rescue and shelter
https://www.ggohinc.com/
Promise Kept Therapeutic Riding Center, Baldwin – provides horse-riding therapy for children and adults with developmental, physical, and emotional needs
http://www.promisekepttherapy.org/
Five Loaves Food Shelf, New Richmond – provides food, clothing, and community meal
https://www.5loavesfoodandclothing.org/food-shelf