Obituaries

Kathleen Emily Simonis, age 78, of Florence, Kentucky, formerly of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away suddenly on June 19, 2026.

Born to the late Daniel and Blanche Kalupa, Kathleen lived a life defined by hard work, resilience, and devotion to her family. She was the former owner of Central Office Systems, a business she successfully operated before later selling and enjoying her retirement.

Kathleen was a breast cancer survivor whose strength and determination inspired those who knew her. Following the passing of her beloved husband, James Simonis, she relocated to Kentucky to be closer to family. Though she deeply missed her husband, she built a wonderful life filled with the people and activities she loved most.

A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Kathleen's greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She was known as an excellent cook whose meals brought loved ones together around the table. She was an avid reader, remarkably skilled at Jeopardy and Sudoku, and rarely met a trivia question she could not answer. Her quick wit, intelligence, and warm heart will be remembered by all who knew her.

In addition to her husband, James, Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Blanche Kalupa, and her beloved dog, Toby.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Michelle Triplett; her cherished grandchildren, James (Sophie) Triplett and Samantha Triplett; her sisters, Joann (Frank) Schmidt and Marion Wolfmeyer, who was preceded in death by her husband, Dave; her brother, Chuck (Pam) Kalupa; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In accordance with Kathleen's wishes, she will be cremated and laid to rest alongside her husband, James, in Wisconsin.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Kathleen's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Kathleen's love, wisdom, strength, and sense of humor will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Services will be held at Schaff Funeral Home in Wisconsin and dates and times will be updated as we receive them.