Kathleen E. (Wheeler) Hagbom

Kathleen “Kay” Elaine Hagbom, 94, of Grand Rapids, MI passed away peacefully at home on November 6, 2017. She was born March 28th, 1923 in Canton, IL, to Stuart and Hazel Wheeler. She was preceded in death by loving husband, Chester “Chet” in 1958.   Kay received a BA in Physical Education from Illinois State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota.  She had a 30-year career with the YWCA, serving as Executive Director in Waukesha, WI, Grand Rapids, MI, and Schenectady, NY.  She was a committed advocate for women’s issues, and used her expertise in program development and fund raising to create programs for pregnant teens, domestic violence, women‘s housing and day care. Kay was a staunch democrat, always willing to share her opinions and values. She loved the challenge of talking with people who disagreed with her, without being disagreeable.  Kay became an avid MSU Spartan fan, and rarely missed watching a football or basketball game. She thoroughly enjoyed living in the Plaza Towers condo community, where she developed many friendships and so appreciated the kind Plaza Towers staff who helped her live independently in her later years.  Kay is survived by her sons, Greg (Gail) Hagbom of East Lansing, MI and Mark (Sally Mahoney) Hagbom of Grand Rapids, MI; grandchildren Matthew (Melanie) Hagbom of Brooklyn, NY, Michael (Courtney) Hagbom of Mason, MI, Katelyn Hagbom and Andrew (“AJ”) Hagbom of Grand Rapids, MI, step-granddaughter Kara (AJ Smith) Spicer/Smith of Grand Rapids; great-grandsons Landon and Peyton Hagbom of Mason, MI, step-great granddaughter Hallie Smith of Grand Rapids; brother Robert (Millicent) Wheeler of Des Plaines, IL.  Friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” at 1:00 PM, Saturday November 18, at the Plaza Towers (Campau Room), 160 Campau Circle, Grand Rapids. Please use the Plaza Towers circle entrance.

 Service Information