Kathleen M. Dineen

Kathleen M. Dineen

March 26, 1954 - May 01, 2026

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Obituary

Kathy Dineen passed away on May 1, 2026. Kathy was born to Norman and Betty (Whitman) Dineen on March 26, 1954, in Stevens Point, Wi. She was the second oldest of five children. The family resided in Menasha until 1965 when they moved to Rhinelander.


A 1972 graduate of Rhinelander High School, Kathy then attended nursing school at Marian College in Fond du Lac. She graduated with an R.N. in nursing. She began her nursing career at St. Michael’s Hospital in Stevens Point before moving to Madison, where she worked almost 40 years at Meriter Hospital. Kathy was completely dedicated to her nursing profession, beginning her career as a staff nurse before moving into leadership and management roles across several departments. She was known for her thoughtful, supportive management style and her unwavering commitment to both her patients and colleagues. Kathy earned the deep respect and admiration of those who worked alongside her, leading with compassion, wisdom and grace. During her nursing career at Meriter, Kathy earned her Master of Science in nursing education. She ended her career as a professor of nursing at Edgewood University.


Outside of work, Kathy had a number of interests. She played cribbage with a group every week. She also had a very special 40-year friendship with a group of wonderful nurses. They met when they all worked together on the neurology unit at Meriter. Kathy was very devoted to these friends, and she tended to their friendships just as she did her nursing. Kathy joined Delta Kappa Gamma, Phi chapter, in May 2019. DKG is an international organization that honors women educators. Kathy’s teaching in the nursing program at Edgewood University qualified her for membership. She was a faithful and respected member by her Phi sisters. She served as the treasurer for this organization for several years.

Kathy was very proud of her Irish heritage and was thrilled to be able to visit Ireland several years ago. For many years, Kathy volunteered her time and skills with the Badger Honor flights. She even accompanied a former neighbor who was a veteran on one of the flights.


Kathy had a special love for animals, especially her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels who brought her great joy. She also lovingly embraced her close friend Stephanie’s dogs as her own, extending to them the same warmth and affection she shared so generously with all those around her.


Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; and her older brother, Patrick. She is survived by her siblings, Peggy (Mike) Peltier of Zimmerman, MN, Mary (Mark) Willis of Medford, WI, and Mike Dineen of Madison, WI; and 11 nieces and nephews and 15 great-nieces and nephews. Kathy had a dear, long-term friend, Stephanie, with whom she lived for 20 years. Kathy loved her special friendships with Stephanie’s daughter, Caitlin, son, SirJeremy and grandson, London.


Kathy’s family and close friends would like to express their gratitude to all the medical and non-medical staff who provided such skilled and compassionate care throughout her many years of health challenges.


In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association or the Dane County Humane Society.


A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at HOLY WISDOM MONASTERY, 4200 County Highway M, Middleton, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026.


“The people we love don’t disappear. They stay with us, quietly, in the corners of our days, lingering in ways we don’t understand, unseen but always present.” - Terah Shelton Harris


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

Events

12
Celebration of Life
Sun Jul 12, 2026 @ 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Holy Wisdom Monastery • 4200 County Rd M, Middleton, WI 53562
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Kathleen
AD
A Memorial Tree was planted for Kathleen Marie Dineen
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Middleton
JH
Jo Anne (Feld) Hayon
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Kathy was a dear friend from Marian. We had a group that would meet once a year, in the Dells and reminisce. This was to be our 10 years meeting. I loved Kathy's laugh. We will miss her but will salute her as a group. Please let me know when the memorial will take place. May the angels lead her into Paradise.
EG
Erin Glueck
Other •
Kathy was a member of our Saturday morning cribbage card group in Middleton. She was a joy to play with, modest and very wise. We will miss her presence.
PZ
Pat Ziino
Other •
I’m fortunate to have been a friend of “Dineen’s” for over 50 years-since high school in Rhinelander. After graduating there were 4 of us that did “girls weekends” usually once a year for more than 40 years traveling to the Bahamas, camping in the Rockies and going to the Kentucky Derby. We also traveled to different cities within the state. Oh, the stories we could tell …. Although we only saw each other once or twice a year, it was as if we’d never been apart. It’s a rare thing to maintain that type of friendship for that length of time. She’ll be missed by the three of us. I’ll miss my friend’s laughter and our talks driving up to Rhinelander together. And, I’ll cherish all the memories. I know my friend is now at peace and I’m grateful for that. Pat Ziino (KAVANAGH)

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