Kathy (Kreigh) Lee

Kathleen Helen "Kathy" Lee, age 82, of Leo, passed away after a brief illness on January 8, 2024 in the home of friends in Avilla with whom she recently has resided. 

Kathy was born on February 13, 1941, to Wealthy and Lester Kreigh in Hillsdale, Michigan. She graduated from Parkview School of Nursing, and, thereafter, spent most of her nursing career working in various clinical and managerial positions at Parkview Hospital. Kathy was proudest of the time she spent as Director of Rehabilitation Services, but also enjoyed her years in clinical nursing, providing direct patient care as well as mentoring students and new graduates.

After retiring in 2001, Kathy devoted time and expertise to various gardening projects. For many years she was Master Gardener Team Leader at the Allen County Extension Prairie display garden.  As an Indiana Master Naturalist, she volunteered at Solomon Farm, Lawton Greenhouse, the Botanical Conservatory, and various garden clubs (Iris Club, Bonsai Club and Day Lilly Club). Kathy also spoke frequently in the community on gardening topics including care of Bonsai, cultivating native plants, and protecting the habitats of native birds and Monarch butterflies.   For approximately 15 years, Kathy contributed a monthly gardening column, Kathy’s Kibitizen’ for Gardeners of America newsletter.  She also became a zealous advocate for various social concerns including air quality, animal rights, and water conservation.

Kathy was predeceased by her parents; two sisters, Suzanne Fortney and Patricia Diehm; and a granddaughter, Correy Lee.   She is survived by son, Robert Lee and daughter, Tonya Davis, sister, Glenna Hissong of Churubusco, as well as three grandchildren.

Per Kathy’s wishes, her ashes will be interred at the Avilla Cemetery, but no memorial service is planned. Preferred memorials are to: Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rehab Center, Huntertown, Indiana.

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