Kathleen A. Lohff

Kathleen A. Lohff, 76, of Marengo, passed away Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, at Northwestern McHenry Hospital, surrounded by her family. She was born February 24th, 1950, in Duluth, MN, the daughter of Robert and Barbara (Paulson) Helmer. She married James C. Lohff on November 15th, 1969, in Hoffman Estates. Kathy was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, great grandmother, cherished sister, and loyal friend. Her family was the center of her world, and she poured her heart into every role she held. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love. A devout Catholic, her faith was a guiding force in her life. It shaped her values, strengthened her in difficult times, and reflected in the compassion and grace she showed to others each day. She had a deep appreciation for nature and felt most at peace outdoors — especially during her cherished time at the family cabin in the north woods. There, surrounded by towering pines, quiet mornings, and the beauty of God’s creation, she found rest and happiness in all of God’s seasons. Some of her happiest summer days were spent in her canoe paddling on the quiet lake, soaking up the sun and the calm. When she was in Florida, you could almost always find her walking the beach, happily searching for shells and enjoying the sound of the waves. Fall brought some of her favorite moments — slow pontoon rides wrapped in a sweatshirt, taking in the cool air and the brilliant colors along the shoreline. And when winter arrived, she didn’t slow down. She embraced it. She enjoyed cross-country skiing through peaceful trails, downhill skiing with a big smile, and snowmobiling through fresh snow. Being outdoors wasn’t just something she did — it was where she felt most like herself. Those who shared those seasons with her will always think of her when they feel a warm summer breeze, see bright autumn leaves, or hear the quiet hush of snow. She also enjoyed her time as a school bus driver while her children were in school and was grateful to be part of the school children’s daily lives. Her love, kindness, and steady strength will live on in the lives she touched and in the family she treasured so deeply. She will be deeply missed… She is survived by her husband, Jim; her children, Jim (Charlotte) Lohff, John (Libby) Lohff, and Kristin (Kent) Seaver; her grandchildren, A.J. (Brittany), Linnea (Michael), Shelby (Michael), Colton, Owen, Aidan (Anna), Kade, and Cohen; her great-grandchildren, Sawyer, and Ryker; and siblings, Richard Helmer (Dallas), and Nancy (Greg) Tegtman. She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Barbara Helmer; and her brother, William Helmer. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 9th, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 323 N Taylor St., Marengo, IL, from 9:00 to 10:50 am, until the time of Service at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kathleen’s name may be directed to the Madonna Renewal Center, 1209B South Walnut Ave. Freeport, IL 61032 or at www.madonnarenewalcenter.org

Kathleen A. Lohff

February 24, 1950 - February 25, 2026