Kathleen Moles Kilzer Itzen

Kathleen Moles Kilzer Itzen, 65, of Cordova, Neb., died peacefully at home surrounded by family April 25, 2018 in Grand Island, after a nearly 4-year battle with cancer.

She was born in Seward, Neb., on Sept. 17, 1952, to Francis and Mildred Moles. Kathy graduated from Seward High in 1970, received her BS in Elem. Educ. from NE Wesleyan in 1974, her Masters from Concordia in 1988, and her PhD from UNL in 1999.

Kathy taught in many states, prior to coming back to Nebraska where she then taught at Garland, Goehner, Staplehurst, and Seward Elementary schools. She taught fulltime for more than 20 years, then spent additional time as a substitute teacher. Kathy found joy from her family, church, dogs, horses, camping and kayaking. She was crafty and created so made gifts through wood working and sewing.

Survived by her husband Edward Itzen, Sr.; children: Beth (Matt) Hraban of Raleigh, NC, Julie (Dana) Wright of Grand Island, Jill (Scott) Henn of Lincoln, Edward (Kia) Itzen, Cristi (Don) Higgins, Jami (Jeff) Motz, Jacki Maynez, all of Lincoln, and 20 grandchildren. Brothers: Wayne (Deborah) Moles of Florida, Lanson (Kamala) Moles of Oregon. Nephew: David (Meredith) Moles, niece: Carolyn Janis. Kathy also considered all of her former students as her children.

Preceded in death by her father, Francis Moles, and her mother and step-father, Robert and Mildred Imig.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at April 29 at 2 p.m. at the Hope Center Church, 620 Dimery Ave, Beaver Crossing, Neb.

Kathleen selflessly donated her body to science through the Anatomical Board of the State of Nebraska.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Hope Venture, a non-profit organization based out of Lincoln that brings help and hope to people around the world. Kathy had a passion for education and encouraging others. She had the privilege to support and volunteer with Hope Venture along side her younger daughters. Learn more at www.thehopeventure.org

Condolences and memories for the family may be left at www.jacobsengreenway.com.