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ISHPEMING, MI – Kathy Marie Korpi (Saari), 71, of Ishpeming, MI went home to her Jesus May 2nd, 2026.
Born January 8, 1955 to Donald and Norma Saari, she grew up in the loving home of Douglas and Vivian Russey of San Pablo, California. Kathy was a free spirit who knew how to make friends wherever she went. Anyone who knows her knows she could talk your ear off for hours or that she could keep you laughing all night with her sharp wit and sense of humour.
While her children were growing up, Kathy was the “cool” mom, the mom who allowed everyone to dye their hair any color of the rainbow they wanted and hosted The Craft movie nights or post prom parties. She's the mom who took kids in that had nowhere else to go and encouraged people to be who they were born to be with complete love and acceptance. Most importantly, she was the mom who sacrificed her wants and dreams in order to give her children a better life She had a huge heart and loved fiercely.
Later in life, she found great joy in spending time with her grandkids. Mowing the lawn, weeding the garden, reading and hanging out with her animals were also among her favorite things to do. She was an active member of the Eagles Aerie #1944 and served in various roles throughout the years including Past President. Above all else, however, she loved her Jesus. She enjoyed working in the Emmaus and church communities; whether it be bringing a church service to those unable to get to church any way else or cleaning the church toilets, she welcomed every opportunity to serve Jesus she could. She looked forward to reuniting with Him.
Kathy is survived by her 3 children, Nathan (Jaynan) Hansen, Rachel (Alecia) Kelly, Kevin (Jamie) Snyder; 8 grandchildren, Jade (Hansen) Adams, Aeris and Logan Hansen, Eliza Kelly, Maya, Tommas, Violet and Cody Snyder, sister Debbie Bleau and cat Max.
She is preceded in death by parents Donald and Norma Saari, parents Vivian and Douglas Russey, sister Patricia, dogs Phoebe, Toby and Chelsea Rae, cats Sancho, Chubbs, Cochise, and Dante.
Per Kathy's wishes, no visitation or funeral will take place. However, there will be a Celebration of Life on August 22, 2026 from 1-3pm at Grace Church in Ishpeming.