Kathleen Coleman

Kathleen (Kathy) Mattes Coleman, age 76, of Des Moines/Urbandale, passed away November 20, 2015.

Her life will be celebrated at the Visitation on Tuesday, November 24 from 5 ? 7 p.m. with a special memorial service at 7 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Des Moines. Funeral will be Wednesday, November 25 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church with a luncheon immediately following. Burial will be at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Born in Washington, IA, Kathy went to Marycrest College and started her teaching career in eastern Iowa. She retired from Perkins Elementary where she gave all of her kindergarteners a true love of learning and pride in their work .

Kathy met the love of her life, Ron, on a blind date and they were married for 54 years. They dedicated their life together to raising their family of six children and 23 grandchildren.

Their house was home to all the Colemans, and the many friends who became like family. She was happiest when their house was crazy full with grandkids or friends. Ron and Kathy created a welcoming home base for all, whether in town, at Lake Panorama, or Sun City West, Arizona.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Ron and their six children: Annie (Dan) Broos of Mendota Heights, MN; Chris (Marcie) Coleman, of Des Moines; Tom (Kim) Coleman, of Des Moines; Teri (Steve) Siembieda, of Urbandale; Ronda (Dave) Rottjakob, of Eagan, MN; and Patsy (Joe) Piazza of St. Paul, MN. In addition, she was blessed with 23 grandchildren.

She leaves behind her siblings, Shirley (Butch) Streb of Iowa City, Ed (Joyce) Mattes of Kalona, and Nancy Westphal Waters of Washington and numerous Halsch cousins.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Catherine and John Mattes, in-laws Jim and Bonita Coleman, brother-in-law Dr. Bill Westphal; and granddaughter Ellen Rottjakob.

Memorials are preferred to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 2926 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50310, to support the new Saint Peregrine Shrine and Cancer Patient Outreach in honor of the patron saint for cancer.

Iles Funeral Homes ? Westover Chapel in Des Moines is handling arrangements and online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.