Kathryn S. Cappelen

Kathryn S. Cappelen was born Oct. 30, 1923, in Benson, Minn, to Dena C. (Anderson) Cappelen and Olaus G. Cappelen. She moved to La Crosse in 1924.

Kathryn attended La Crosse schools, graduating from Central High School in 1941. She attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and graduated on June 3, 1945, with a BS degree and received her MS degree from Winona (Minn.) State College in 1960.

Kathryn taught in Richland Center, Wis., and in the La Crosse School District from 1950-1964. She was named elementary consultant in 1964 and supervisor of curriculum in 1978. She planned and implemented the Right-to-Red Project and was involved in developing LMCs in all schools. Kathryn retired from the La Crosse School District in 1986 after 39 years of service.Kathryn received the YWCA Tribute to Outstanding Women Education Award in 1983. She received a Recognition of Service Award from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Kathryn was a member of Alpha Phi Pi Sorority, Delta Kappa Gamma (Theta Chapter) and Retired Educators, and was active in many organizations and served on several boards. She was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church since 1937. After retirement, she traveled extensively throughout the United States, England, Norway, and China. Kathryn enjoyed spending time with her relatives and friends at her cottage in Centuria, Wis.

Kathryn S. Cappelen passed away Saturday, Jan. 20, 2007, at Bethany Riverside Nursing Home in La Crosse. She is survived by distant relatives and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Dean.