Service Details
During this time of the health crisis & in accordance with Colleen’s wishes, a PRIVATE family service will be held in the funeral home. Interment will take place at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial Suggestions
In memory of Colleen, memorials may be made to “The Prairie School”.
Racine – Colleen Ann (nee: Sather) McCarthy, age 70, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, Tuesday evening, January 5, 2021.
Colleen was born in Racine on September 29, 1950 to the late Everett and Evelyn (nee: Harmel) Sather. She was a graduate of JI Case High School. Colleen was fortunate to find her true life’s passion. With a deep love for all her students, Colleen enjoyed over 30 years of dedicated service to the primary school at The Prairie School, retiring in 2016.
On August 3, 1988, she was united in marriage with the love of her life, Thomas D. McCarthy. When not at work, they cherished spending time with family & friends and spoiling their canine companions, Sadie & Molly.
Surviving are her loving husband, Tom McCarthy; children, Carrie Hogard, Robin Monosa, Shelli McCarthy, Laura (Herb) Mai and Carrie McCarthy; grandchildren, Kayla Hagarty, Madison Hogard, Matthew (Cassidy) Hogard & Sierra Lyn Hogard; Ashley Lensby; Alyssa (Brian) Niechlancki); Jared Mai, Ryan Mai; Jacob Poffenberger, Andrew Poffenberger; and three great-grandchildren; sisters, Cynthia Sather and Carol (Del) Halverson; nieces, nephews, co-workers, students & many friends – too numerous to mention all by name. Colleen was preceded in death by her father & mother, Everett & Evelyn Sather; and beloved niece, Kristin Halverson.
During this time of the health crisis & in accordance with Colleen’s wishes, a PRIVATE family service will be held in the funeral home. Interment will take place at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In memory of Colleen, memorials may be made to “The Prairie School”. A heartfelt note of thanks to all of our family & friends who helped during the past four years, when Colleen needed it most.
“Teachers are not in it for the income…they are in it for the outcome!”
Jack and Karen Webb says
Tom, so sorry to hear this sad news. Know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jenni Chiapete says
Colleen and I worked together at Prairie School for about ten years. She was so beloved by her students and coworkers. I remember her being extremely proud of her beautiful family. I am saddened to hear of you losing her, she truly was a special lady.
Anonymous says
So very sorry for your loss.
Dan Hiatt says
Tom,
So very sorry for your loss.
Terie Carpenter says
I am so sad to hear about Colleen’s passing. I taught with her in the Early School Program for many years at The Prairie School and thought the world of her. She was always so kind and patient with the children under her care and had such a great sense of humor too. Colleen was forever talking about how proud she was of her children and grandchildren. My most sincere condolences go out to the family.
Anonymous says
My love and deepest sympathy to the McCarthy Family. I had the great pleasure and privilege of working with Colleen for 15+ years at The Prairie School, and learned so much from her. She was the epitome of an educator and of a grandmother. Colleen shared stories about sledding or going to water parks with her grandchildren at almost every faculty meeting. Her sense of humor brought great joy to all her worked with her. I will always remember and be grateful to have worked with Colleen McCarthy, beautiful inside and out. She was a gift in my life. Kathy Boero
Anonymous says
Tom,
Our deepest sympathy to you on the loss of Colleen. We have lots of great memories. May God give you peace.
Frank & Gloria LaBoda
Sandy Laing says
Colleen was a wonderful, creative and inspirational influence on the youngest Prairie students. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.
Bob and Sandy Laing
Carole Hagarty says
I’m very sad to hear of the Coleen’s passing. She was a wonderful grandmother to my granddaughter, Kayla Hagarty. She will certainly be missed. I’ll hold her and her family in my prayers.
Patti Mahlandt says
Uncle Tommy,
I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you peace and strength through this difficult time
Lloyd and Sandy Swager says
Colleen was a wonderful artist and teacher. Each summer my kids couldn’t wait to be in her “Build a Table” class! Even many years later, all of the tables (we have 8) are still in use throughout our home and the homes of our children.
We will always think of Colleen fondly and feel lucky that she was a part of our kids lives.
Sharon Major says
Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
So loved, so missed,
So very dear.
Diane Hilbrink says
Carrie
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this time. Your mother was an amazing woman and she will truly be missed.
Janet Nottley says
My condolences to the family. I did not know Colleen but knew how much her sister Cyndi loved her. Her students were lucky to have such a wonderful teacher. I am sorry for your loss.
Peggy Harmel-Schmidt says
So sorry to lose a sweet cousin and lovely person. Prayers and hugs to her friends and family.
Tina Whiting says
I’m sorry for your loss. I got to know Colleen when I worked in Stay N Play at Prairie School. She was truly a wonderful person. My prayers are with you now and always.
Tina Whiting