Kathleen S. Gerdes

Kathleen Gerdes, 81, of Altamont, passed away the afternoon of Monday, October 27, 2025, at her home.

Kathleen Sue Beaty was born on August 11, 1944, to Evert Cleon and Frankie Virginia (Conklin) Beaty in San Diego, California.  She grew up and attended school in Parsons.  After graduating from high school, Kathleen attended Kansas State University for a time.  She transferred to Kansas State Teacher's College, now Pittsburg State University, where she earned a teaching certificate and met the love of her life, James Gerdes.

Before starting her teaching career, Kathleen worked as a cook at Labette County Medical Center.  For 30 years, Kathleen was a teacher at Labette County High School.

An accomplished amateur photographer, her favorite subjects were wildflowers, sunflowers, zoo animals and landscapes and she was awarded numerous ribbons for her photos.  She had a special love for animals.  She also enjoyed reading and traveling with her sister.

On August 28, 1965, Kathleen and James were united in marriage at Central Avenue Christian Church in Parsons.  He preceded her in death on November 8, 2023.

Survivors include:

Two sons – Kevin Gerdes of Altamont, Kansas

James E. Gerdes and his wife, Kari, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

One daughter – Sarah Bolin of Altamont, Kansas

Two grandchildren – Hannah Gerdes and Nicholas Bolin

One great-grandson

Two sisters – Gretchen Garrett and her husband, Doug, of Olathe, Kansas

Janice Beaty of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Joe Beaty.

The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 7, 2025, at Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home of Parsons.  Burial will follow at Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Parsons.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home of Parsons.

Memorials are suggested to Proud Animal Lovers Shelter (PALS).  These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.