October 25, 1955 – February 13, 2026
Kathy Kay Roberts, 70, of Rockwell, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, surrounded by the love of her family.
In accordance with Kathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
Kathy Kay Fitzgerald was born on October 25, 1955, in Austin, Minnesota, to Cecil and Dorothy (Smith) Fitzgerald. She grew up in Austin, Minnesota and graduated with the Class of 1974. After high school, she remained in the area until one life-changing evening when a young man named Dale Roberts asked her to dance and the rest, as they say, was history.
Kathy and Dale were united in marriage on March 6, 1976, at Mona Lutheran Church in Mona, Iowa. This March, they would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, a testament to a love built on laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Together they raised four children and created a home filled with warmth, creativity, and joy.
Kathy had a vibrant personality and a gift for making life beautiful. She loved decorating her home, tending to her flower gardens, camping, and traveling. Whether she was relaxing by the river or exploring new places in their motorhome, Kathy found joy in the outdoors and especially in time spent with Dale. In her younger years, she lovingly sewed clothes for her children; later, she became known for baking Dale’s favorite cookies, small but meaningful expressions of her love.
Kathy was also known for her strong will. She could be a little stubborn, even bull-headed at times, but it was simply part of her fierce loyalty, deep convictions, and the determined spirit that helped her care so deeply for the people she loved. Those who knew her best understood that behind that determined streak was a heart full of devotion and strength.
More than anything, Kathy treasured her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 50 years, Dale Roberts; her children, Dottie Roberts, Kristie (Craig) Reinke, Jon (Abbi) Roberts, and James (Jade) Roberts. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Kali Roberts, Jadyn Adams, Takota Weitzel, Jaris Trebilcock, Christian Reinke, Trinity Fails, Colton Reinke, Payton Roberts, Wyatt Roberts, Brandtley Roberts, and Huxley Roberts; and great-grandmother to Kasen and Wrenlee.
She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Nancy Mickelson, Karen (Don) Whalen, and Linda (Terry) Mayer; sister, Tammi Henthorne; brother, Kirk Fure, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Dorothy Fitzgerald; her step-mother, Edna Olsen; her parents-in-law, LaVerne and Velma Jean Roberts; and her siblings, Peggy Skauge, Daryl (Janet) Berry, and Bonnie (Hal) Meyer.
colonialchapels.com