Kathleen Marie McClure, 64 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. She was born November 22, 1959, in Chicago, IL to Patrick and Marge (Bingman) Miller. Kathleen graduated from The University of Akron in Ohio and Word of Life Bible Institute in Schroon Lake, New York. She began her career as an Administrative Assistant in the International Division of Goodyear. Her passion for Christ overflowed in ministry to the spiritual needs of others. She served through various local churches and international ministries including Masterwork, a non-profit which she and her husband founded. Her affinity for linguistics led Kathleen to become fluent in 3 languages, and proved to be a gift as their ministry spread to 26 countries. She carried a particular burden for young moms, pastor’s wives, and college students. For the past 7 years, Kathleen has served as the Spiritual Coach for the Valparaiso University Women’s Basketball Team.
Kathleen had a heart for the world and her family. Her beloved children and grandchildren brought her great joy and an immense sense of pride. A cherished title for Kathleen was being the best “Oma” to her three grandchildren. Many in her circle acknowledge how Christ became better known to them because of Kathleen’s kindness, tenderness, and knowledge of the Scriptures. Kathleen was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who will be dearly missed by all who knew her. On May 31, 1986, in Akron, Ohio, Kathleen married the love of her life, William “Bill” McClure, who survives, along with children: Allison McClure of Columbus, Ohio, and Daniel (Sarah) McClure of Plymouth, Minnesota; grandchildren: Autumn, David, and Ezra; father, Patrick Miller of Monroe Falls, Ohio; and siblings: Mark (Barb) Miller, Steve (Lori) Miller, and Shelley (Brian) Artz. She was preceded in death by her mother, and grandparents.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Calvary Church, 1325 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN, with a celebration of life service beginning at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Masterwork, which can be done online at https://master-work.org/donate, or by mail to P.O. Box 2225, Valparaiso, IN 46384, with checks to be made to “Masterwork”.
GUESTBOOK
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the entire family! Kathleen will be greatly missed. Rest with The Lord! -Natalie Ramer
Bob and Allison: I am so sorry for the loss of your sister-in- law / mother. I remember meeting her once many years ago…I think at Equine Affaire. It sounds like she lead an incredible life and will be missed by many.. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers -Julie and Ken Gunn
Joyful with a heavy heart. With prayers of comfort for you. -Ron and Mimi Moore
Bill and family ... My deepest condolences to you all. Kathleen was a remarkably godly women who loved well. The news of her cancer brought such sadness and even now with her Heaven date, the loss is deep, but not without hope. Know you are thought of and prayed for in Akron, OH. "This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life." -Psalm 119:50 -Debi Hullinger
So sorry hearing the news. I recall my memory of stay at your home in 2008. You are so kind and your hospitality was unforgettable. My Deep condolences to Bill and family. -Chhuana
Kathleen was one of the first people I met when my family moved here 10 years ago. I met her at a Bible study and she took me out to lunch afterwards. I will forever remember her kindness and how welcomed she made me feel. -Mindy Ruckle
Allison, I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that you friends are thinking of you and your family during this time. Take care of yourself! -Bonnie Henry
Heartsick over the temporary loss of your wife and perfect helpmate. Also for all the families loss. May God be close to you at this time. All the family will be held up in prayer. Pricious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants. -Joe Gilles
Bill, We are so sorry for your loss. We cherished our friendship with you and Kathleen all the way back when we were in Austria. I have always loved Kathleen’s sweet, gentle, and kind spirit. She was truly a godly woman and we are grateful she is fully healed now and with her Savior. However, it is a great loss for your family and those she was ministering to. We pray the Father will hold you all in His loving arms, comforting and strengthening you through these difficult days. -Valerie and Al Moon
Terribly sorry to see this news Bill. There are no words…only our thoughts and prayers for you and your family. -Barb Schuster Ludwig and Dan Miller
Bill, Allison, and Dan, I am so sorry for your loss. Kathleen was one of the kindness persons I have ever known with much compassion. I now live back in Findlay Ohio and think of you as I go by Allison’s old house and stables. My deepest sympathies for all of you and wish you the best. God bless, -Dave Stilwell
Such a lovely lady. Smiling all the time. Bill, going through the treatments together was uplifting to all of us just being in her company. One day this wretched disease will be eradicated, but meanwhile what we must endure on that journey till our final day is challenging. Thank you for this update and God bless you. -Steve & Linda Surridge
While receiving treatments I met Kathleen a couple years ago, and she had a very warm and loving presence as did her husband. She led with kindness and empathy in the months receiving treatments and I feel blessed to have crossed paths with you Kathleen. Thank you for putting your best foot forward even through your trials. You gave me strength and many others always wearing a smile and being a listening ear. Truly thank you for being you Kathleen. You are amazing. -Kevin McColley
Bill, Allison, and Dan, I am so sorry for your loss. Kathleen was one of the kindness persons I have ever known with much compassion. I now live back in Findlay Ohio and think of you as I go by Allison’s old house and stables. My deepest sympathies for all of you and wish you the best. God bless, -Dave Stilwell
Over decades your family has been a cohesive light into difficult places…always bringing the joy of Christ. What a team you two are…in sickness and in health. I know she suffered…and pray you were ready to visualize her at home…restored….with others she loved who have gone ahead. And for you…I can say with experience…that you will not grieve the same as those who have no hope. I have touchstones that remind me where my loved one is…it is our loss…not theirs. But a great loss. I pray peace that passes understanding guards your hearts and minds. -Cheryl Rybka
Dear Bill, Allison and and family Daniel, I was one of the Pastors wives whose life the Lord used Kathleen to touch. How she loved to talk about her family and I pray earnestly for you in this time of grieving and yet hope of your future reunion in the Lord’s house. In Christ, -Cindy and Mike Sutton
Kathleen was so influential in my life and journey to a deeper relationship with Christ. She helped me through some of the hardest and darkest parts of my life. I could not thank Kathleen enough for all she did for me! She always had the brightest smile on her face and joy radiated from her heart. I am so blessed Hannah and I got to visit her just a couple of months ago. Please know of my daily prayers for her and her whole family! God bless you! -Katherine Carlson
Bill, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you mourn Kathleen's absence. Carol and I enjoyed getting to know you as a couple and to hear how gracious God has been to you both. Thank you. -Tim and Carol Ralston
