Kathleen T. Diederich of Salina, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2020. Kathleen was born August 10, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Arthur and Margaret Gilliam. Her family returned to the farm near Greenleaf, Kansas, where she attended school in a one-room schoolhouse. She graduated from Greenleaf High School at the end of World War II when teachers were scarce. Kathleen attended Kansas State College and earned an emergency teaching certificate. After teaching in a rural one room school for two years, she finished her degree at Marymount College in Salina. After graduation she taught at Hanover High school, in Hanover, Kansas. She enjoyed every moment of teaching and kept in touch with many of her former students. Many of her students credit her with inspiring them to further their education by attending college.

While in high school, Kathleen met Don Diederich. Don and Kathleen were married at Sacred Heart Church in Greenleaf, Kansas on September 3, 1956. Don then took a job as an accountant with Kennedy and Coe in Salina, Kansas. Together they raised six children. Kathleen was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her children and grandchildren and was their biggest supporter and cheerleader.

Kathleen was the beloved wife of Don P. Diederich, who predeceased her in 2011. She was the dear Mother of Dan (Gerilyn) Diederich, Gene (Kim) Diederich, Mary (Jeff) Thompson, Jim (Becca) Diederich, Deanna (Mike) Carmody, John (Tracy) Diederich. She was the beloved Grandmother of 18 grandchildren, who include Aaron, Drew, Gabrielle, Amy, Steven, Therese, Ella, Owen, Evelyn and A.J. Diederich; Jill Perez, Molly Kierscht and Scott, Joey and Sally Thompson; and Margie, Ellie and Brian Carmody. Kathleen is also survived by ten great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents and her sister Geraldine, and is survived by her brother Timothy.

She holds a special place in our hearts and will be missed by all. Kathleen’s children and grandchildren will always regard her as great source of inspiration and encouragement.

Visitation will be from 6-8pm Wednesday at St Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, Salina, with a vigil service at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday February 6 at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Queen of the Universe Church Capital Campaign or the Stiefel Theater, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth, Salina KS, 67401.

For more information or to leave condolences go to www.ryanmortuary.com