Kathie Jo Graham

Kathie Jo Graham passed away on July 14, 2022 at her home in South Bend, IN. She was 68 years old.

A lifelong resident of South Bend, she was born Kathie Jo Horn to Fred and Alice Horn on February 1, 1954. Kathie Jo grew up in the Ardmore community, devoting her time to the First Brethren Church of Ardmore and the many family celebrations in the surrounding area. She loved to sing in the Cousins Trio group. Her beautiful voice needed no microphone.

Kathie Jo met her husband, David P. Graham, while attending Bethel College from which she graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Dave and Kathie married on June 25, 1977, beginning a strong, loving marriage that would span 45 years.

Kathie Jo raised her daughters, Wednesday (Michael) Demchok, of South Bend, IN and Ashley (Michael) Blankenbaker, of Springfield, IL to be strong, educated, passionate women.

She is survived by five grandchildren, Miranda Platz and Cassandra Demchok, of South Bend, IN and Caleb, Bethany and Cole Blankenbaker, of Springfield, IL. Kathie Jo loved these kids more than anything in the world. Kathie Jo is also survived by a sister, Joylene Barnes, of Georgia; brother, Fred Horn, of Idaho; and by many nieces, nephews and cousins, all of whom may be too numerous to name, but if asked, she would’ve proudly talked about each and every one.

Kathie Jo was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Cheryl Horn; and a granddaughter, Micheala Blankenbaker.

Kathie loved her turtle collection, the tall sailing ships of Mystic Seaport, NASCAR, Notre Dame football, watching all kinds of movies and exploring a wide range of music. She was a proud Christian and American. She loved to visit with family and had the best stories. Her strong sense of humor followed by her fabulously loud, boisterous laughter were irresistible. Heaven just got brighter, maybe a little rambunctious.

A Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 10am, with visitation following until 12pm at Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr., South Bend, IN 46628. Per Kathie Jo’s wishes of cremation, there will be no burial services at this time.

Online condolences may be left at www.kaniewski.com

She often said, “Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and lots of time with them!”

Posted online on July 19, 2022

Published in South Bend Tribune

07/19/2022 EJS