Kathleen Elizabeth McCluskey

Kathleen (“Kathy”) McCluskey, 72, was a devoted wife, a dear friend, a talented musician, a “weekend warrior,” and a baptized child of God. She left this world peacefully on October 4, 2024, after her courageous journey with Alzheimer's Disease.

On June 5, 1952, Kathy was born to Henry and Jane Glander, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, Gordon (“Mac”) McCluskey, whom she married on July 13, 2017. Kathy is also survived by Mac's daughter, Dawn McCluskey (Darin Harris), and Mac's granddaughters Ellison and Alexa Harris, as well as her loving sisters, Jean (Richard) Eichman and Helen (Terence, “Terry”) Stoerzinger, nieces and nephews, their spouses, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

After graduation from High School, Kathy earned a BBA in accounting from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. She worked as an accountant and comptroller at Hy Cite, and later as an accountant and as a project manager for many UW departments. She retired in 2014 as a Research Project Manager from the Wisconsin Reading Center at UW, a leader in ophthalmic imaging evaluation.

A long-time member of Blackhawk Church, Kathy volunteered often: cooking for study days, rocking babies, leading a Communion team, and organizing international retreats. 

One of Kathy's greatest joys was preparing elaborate meals for family and friends. She opened her heart and home to family members and students and international scholars. 

Kathy was a talented musician. She played flute and piccolo in concerts and marching bands. Kathleen served from 1978 to 1981 in the Wisconsin Army National Guard: she played flute and piccolo in the Army Band. She played in the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra's Concerts on the Square. Friends accompanied her on piano as she played sacred music for worship and weddings.

The family wants to thank Kathy's medical team and staff at UW Health, Attic Angel Community, and Agrace Hospice Care for their loving, compassionate, and professional care of Kathy during her journey with Alzheimer's Disease.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, October 29, at Blackhawk Church, 9620 Brader Way, Middleton. A visitation will be held one hour prior to service. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a personally beloved charity. Private burial.

Kathy's sense of humor, the twinkle in her eye, her love of music, and her faith in Jesus as her Savior stayed the longest with “Katy Liz, the busiest girl there is.”

“...and now there is in store for [her] the crown of righteousness...” 2 Timothy 4:8

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434