Katherine "Kate" N. DeWees

Katherine "Kate" DeWees, age 100, of Rensselaer, Indiana, formerly of Remington, passed away on July 9, 2026. Kate was born on April 29, 1926, in Goodland, Indiana, to James and Rose (Villinski) Sheldon. She graduated from Remington High School with the Class of 1944. On January 23, 1946, she married the love of her life, Donald DeWees Sr., in Goodland. Together they shared 47 years of marriage before his passing on March 28, 1993. A devoted farm wife and homemaker, Kate's life was centered on caring for her family and serving her community. She worked for Jasper County Hospital Home Healthcare for 21 years, where her compassion and dedication earned her the distinguished honor of being named Indiana Home Services Caregiver of the Year at the Indiana Governor's Conference. She also served as a part-time employee of Jackson Funeral Chapel, where her caring heart continued to comfort others. Kate was a member of the First Christian Church of Rensselaer. She was a past member of the Home Economics Club, served on the Jasper County Fair Board, and dedicated many years as a 4-H leader, helping to guide and encourage countless young people. She found great happiness in tending her vegetable garden, spending time fishing, and preparing meals for those she loved. Kate's kitchen table was the heart of her home, where family, friends, and neighbors were always welcomed with a warm meal, heartfelt conversation, and genuine hospitality. Her generous spirit, unwavering work ethic, and deep love for her family will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her children, Patrick (Karen) DeWees of Rensselaer and Dennis (Elizabeth) DeWees of Anderson, South Carolina; her daughter-in-law, Kim DeWees of Brook; her grandchildren, Tod DeWees, Tracy (Ron) Hoaks, Deana (Troy) Rule, Kim (Scott) Ringen, Ben (Alayna) DeWees, and Sarah (Dustin) Wuethrich; 18 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. Kate was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Donald DeWees Sr.; her son, Donald DeWees Jr.; five brothers; and one sister. Friends may call on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CT at Jackson Funeral Chapel of Rensselaer. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. CT with Pastor Jeff Seger officiating. Interment will take place at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Rensselaer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riley Hospital for Children, the Good Samaritan Food Pantry, or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Kate lived a remarkable century defined by faith, service, hard work, and unconditional love. Her legacy will continue through the generations she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the countless memories made around her family table.

Katherine "Kate" N. DeWees

April 29, 1926 - July 9, 2026