Kathleen "Kay" Kolterman

Kathleen F. "Kay" Kolterman was born October 29, 1937 at Norfolk, NE to Victor and Alyce (Nygren) Johnson. Kay grew up in Newman Grove, NE, but spent her summers in Encinitas, California with her aunt Inez and came to Wahoo to attend Luther Academy and Luther College. While dining at the Fairview Café, Kay met the love of her life, Frederick D. Kolterman. They were married on December 16, at 1956 Zion Lutheran Church in Newman Grove. Kay and Fred owned and operated the Ben Franklin Store in Wahoo for more than 40 years. Kay oversaw the fabric and sewing department in the store in addition to her duties as bookkeeper. The early risers in town often spotted Kay at the store washing windows at 5 am, cleaning inside the store and stocking shelves in preparation for shoppers. Following the store's closing, Kay worked as a Front Desk Clerk at the Heritage Inn for 18 years. Her friendly smile and courteous demeanor greeted guests and made their stay in Wahoo a memorable one. Kay enjoyed traveling to Chicago and New York City, and made frequent trips to Florida to visit Bret and his family, and to Denver to visit her friend Judy Morocco. Her favorite hobby was antiquing. Kay is survived by her children Shelli (Tom) Harris of Omaha, Bret Kolterman (Fiance Marni Pons Hall) of Ocala FL; grandchildren Brian Harris of Omaha, Caitlin Harris of Davenport IA, Julia Kolterman of Ocala FL; brother-in-law Ron (Peg) Kolterman of Omaha; sister-in-law Sharon Kolterman of Wahoo; dear friend Judy Morocco of Aurora CO; nieces, nephews, many relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Fred and parents Victor and Alyce (Nygren) Johnson.