Mary Kathleen “Kathy” (McCarter) Fischer, 83, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and exceptional nurse, passed away peacefully December 30, 2023, at the Catholic Care Center in Wichita.
Kathy was born at her grandmother’s home on Martin St. in Coffeyville on June 8, 1940, to Marjorie (Masters) and Earl “Rudy” McCarter, the youngest of two daughters. She lived in Coffeyville for 80 years before moving to Wichita in 2021 to be closer to family. She attended Garfield Elementary School, Roosevelt Junior High, and Field Kindley High School.
Kathy loved growing up on 2nd Street, in a neighborhood with nearly 50 “playmates” within three blocks. She spent a lot of time outdoors with her family camping, fishing, and hiking. She felt fortunate to spend summers with her grandparents in Osawatamie and Beagle KS. She participated in band and sports such as volleyball, basketball, and track.
Following high school graduation in 1958, Kathy was attending Coffeyville Community College when she met the love of her life, Larry Fischer, formerly of Pratt KS. On April 22, 1961, the couple was married at Holy Name Catholic Church in Coffeyville. They were blessed with five children.
Kathy returned to college in her late 30s, once her youngest started school. She graduated from Labette Community College with a degree in nursing in 1982. After working in the Surgery Department at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center and in positions in long-term care and skilled nursing, she spent 12 years in Medical Oncology at CRMC. There she lovingly served cancer patients; patients that she considered family. For several years, she was the only registered nurse in Kansas certified in both geriatric and oncology nursing. She was a member of multiple professional nursing societies, worked Red Cross blood drives, and taught countless CPR and nurses’ aide courses during her career.
Kathy was active in the community including P.E.O., Daughters of the American Revolution Jane Coffey Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi, investment club, Relay for Life, and Friends of the Brown Mansion. She was a longtime member of Holy Name, a member and officer of Altar Society, and a youth group leader while their children were growing up. She was also a Cub Scout Leader and Camp Fire Girl Leader. Kathy supported the Coffeyville Community College Red Ravens, rarely missing a football or basketball game, and regularly hosted players for meals.
A talented quilter, Kathy made hundreds of treasured quilts for family, friends, and for donating. Many of her quilts, as well as cookies and candy, won awards at the Montgomery County Fair. Kathy enjoyed playing bridge, painting ceramics, collecting antiques—and her green thumb produced thriving vegetable gardens, flowers, and plants.
Spending time with family was Kathy’s greatest joy. She was happily married to Larry for 58 years and considered raising their children her “greatest accomplishment.” She loved having a full house for family celebrations, holidays, and special times like hosting their grandchildren in the summer for “Camp Grandma.”
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by her children: Steven (Kayla) Fischer of Wichita, KS; Angela (Laurel) Davis of Andover, KS; Cindy Shields of Chanute, KS; Julie (Matt) Filby of Denver, CO; and Daniel (Melissa) Fischer of Lenexa, KS; 10 grandchildren, 3 great granddaughters, and her sister, Margaret “Peggy” Benning of Wichita.
Services will be Monday, January 8, at Holy Name Catholic Church in Coffeyville with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., officiated by Father James Schibi. Lunch will follow at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 613 S Elm St., hosted by Holy Name’s Altar Society. All are welcome. Inurnment will take place at a later time at Calvary Cemetery in Coffeyville.
The family suggests memorials to Holy Name Catholic School or Holy Name Catholic Church. Contributions can be dropped off at the service or the funeral home, or mailed to David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.
To leave a message for the family please visit www.dwbfh.com
David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements.
