Kathleen Cole

Kathleen Cole, age 88, passed away in her home on Thursday, November 27, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Waupun, WI, on October 13, 1937, Kathleen was the eldest of seven children of Lester and Junice (Straks) Vande Berg. After graduating from Brandon High School in 1955 she began her professional career as a secretary before moving to Madison to pursue higher education. In 1974 she fulfilled her life-long dream, earning her bachelor’s degree from UW-Madison majoring in Business Education with a minor in Computer Science.

Kathleen dedicated 33 years of service to the State of Wisconsin, retiring from the Department of Public Instruction as a School Administration Consultant. During her career she helped establish the first accounting system in schools, and she was the first female President of the Southern Wisconsin Association of Government Accountants. She also worked as a sales consultant for Century 21 Affiliated.

Family brought immense joy to Kathleen’s life. After retiring she spent many winters in Texas with her son John, granddaughter Elisabeth (Doug), and great granddaughters Abigail and Ellen. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandson Henry and great-granddaughter Tatum in Wisconsin.

Kathleen had a passion for real estate and liked to buy, fix, and sell homes. She built a beautiful home on Lake Waubesa where she created many meaningful memories with her fiancé and love of her life, Gene Anderson.

Kathleen enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, gardening, traveling, and nature. She loved the beautiful hanging flowers and trees in her back yard. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Lake Edge United Church of Christ, and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority which she enjoyed with her special sorority sisters.

Kathleen is survived by her son, John H. Bossenbroek; grandchildren, Ryan K. Bossenbroek, Henry J. Bossenbroek, Elisabeth M. Fisher (Doug); seven great grandchildren; brother, Keith Vande Berg; special sister-in-law Patricia Vande Berg (Larry) and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Larry Vande Berg (Patricia), Donna Daane (Larry), Diane Umbarger (William), Kenneth Vande Berg, and Betty Vande Brink (Michael); brothers-in-law, William Umbarger and Michael Vande Brink.

Kathleen expressed heartfelt gratitude to her brother Keith and the staff at Agrace Hospice for all the special care and support they provided her. She rests in peace with Jesus now.

Kathleen Joy Cole leaves behind a legacy shaped by intellect, courage, service, creativity, and enduring love. A celebration of her life will be held on January 17, 2026, from 1-3pm at the Crosse House located at 133 West Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Goodman Community Center.