Kathy Jo Winsberg , February 21, 1943 — September 24, 2018

Kathy Jo Winsberg, 75 of Whiting, passed away suddenly on Monday, September 24, 2018. She was the loving mother of Rachel (Bela) Barner and Michael Calabro; cherished grandmother of Zachary Barner; and beloved by her canine companions, Molly and Teddy. She was preceded in death by her parents Herschel and Sylvia (Weiser) Winsberg and her sister, Alexa L. Winsberg.

Kathy was a third-generation resident of the Whiting-Robertsdale community and a fixture in its local arts scene. Her artistic passion was kindled at George Rogers Clark High School, Class of 1961, which progressed to her receiving a degree from the Art Institute of Chicago. She was the founder of the 119thStreet Artists, an organization to promote the work of Whiting area artists, was an instructor of art and pottery at the Calumet College of St. Joseph, a substitute art teacher at the local elementary schools, and the co-ordinator of the arts and crafts fair at the Pierogi Festival for several years.

Kathy was also a third-generation business owner. She owned and operated three businesses in Whiting over 35 years: Arts and Crafts Learning Center, Sail Craft & Supply, and Full Circle Art and Framing. She was a member of the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce and served on its Board of Directors for many years.

Kathy remained committed to the Whiting community, helping to establish the Hammond Marina and was instrumental in acquiring the Milwaukee Clipper. She had a deep love for animals and rescued many, including cats, dogs, birds, rabbits and even a duck. Her explanation to her children for these unlikely pet adoptions: “I swear, it followed me home”.

Kathy’s last wishes were to be put on a boat and pushed out to sea like a Viking, but her family declined this request due to legal concerns and inability to get their hands on a langskip or knorr. While Kathy was loved and honored by many, she was a humble and private person who shunned public display. In lieu of services, her family has requested that Kathy be honored and remembered through support of the 119th Street Artists, (119streetartists.org) or to the Whiting “Gimme Shelter” for pets (whitingindiana.com/government/animal-control).

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