Kay Frances Kulbeck Mork, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend joined our Heavenly Father on April 4, 2025, after a short illness. Born on June 20, 1937, in Siren, Wisconsin, Kay’s life was a tapestry of dedication, love, and service, woven through her 87 years. She departed peacefully from this world in her home, surrounded by family, in Frederic, Wisconsin, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional love, warmth, and family values.
Kay was a beloved educator, loving family matriarch, and pillar of her community. Kay was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Alvin. Together, they built a family that includes five children, Darla, Diane, Darryl, Donna and Dori; 15 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. The matriarch of a large and close-knit family, Kay’s wisdom and presence shaped the lives of those who had the joy of knowing her.
Kay’s early years were spent in the company of her three sisters, Karen, Kathy and Karla in the picturesque town of Siren. She shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings, and their childhood was filled with adventures. A true family person at heart, Kay relished in extended family picnics and holiday celebrations, creating memories that will be talked about for generations.
A life-long learner and educator, Kay’s passion for teaching was evident from a young age. She earned her two-year degree from Polk County Teaching College and went on to achieve her Baccalaureate Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. Kay dedicated 29 years to nurturing young minds as an Elementary School teacher, with a particular fondness for her second-grade students. Her commitment to education and the impact she had on her students’ lives will be remembered fondly. In this rural area, it is common to hear others say, “Mrs. Mork was my second-grade teacher!”
Outside the classroom, Kay’s interests were as rich and varied as the life she led. As an adept seamstress, her hands were rarely still, as she found joy in sewing, creating pieces that would become cherished keepsakes. Kay learned to sew at the age of five, and continued this passion as she made many articles of clothing for her children and grandchildren throughout the years.
Her love for travel took her to places in China, the Philippines, Alaska, Mexico and many other destinations throughout the globe. Kay enjoyed exploring new places and experiencing different cultures, always with family or friends by her side. In the kitchen, Kay’s love of baking always accommodated a warm cup of coffee. Many of Kay’s grandchildren will attest to Kay’s love of coffee, cookies, and conversation.
Kay was a member of her church family, a believer of God. She attended services, taught Sunday School and participated in many church functions throughout the years. She was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren, and later a member of the Clam Falls Lutheran Church in Frederic.
Kay and her husband, Alvin, loved to fish. They spent much of their time on both local lakes and Lake Superior, and even fishing the Mississippi River. Kay also was an avid reader of novels. Reading and fishing both attest to her appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. Above all, spending time with her family was Kay’s favorite pastime. Whether it was a quiet afternoon sitting on the deck observing her birds or a bustling family get-together, she loved every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.
Kay was intelligent and possessed a talent for creativity. Both Kay and Alvin were tremendously gifted, which was passed onto their children and grandchildren, many of whom now share the same passion for sewing, woodworking, building and creating.
Kay’s impact on the world was as gentle as it was profound. Her unwavering love for her family, her students, and her community was a reflection of her compassionate spirit. As we bid farewell to Kay Frances Kulbeck Mork, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and a touch of grace that will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.
Her memory will be kept alive through the stories shared, the lessons taught, and the love she gave. Kay’s journey on earth has ended, but her spirit soars in the eternal, where she is surely watching over us with the same tenderness and care she embodied in life. We celebrate a life well-lived and honor the memories that will forever be held in our hearts.
A visitation will be held at Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic on Sunday, May 18, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19, at Clam Falls Lutheran Church (3376 65th St, Frederic, WI 54837,) with visitation beginning one hour prior to service.
She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
You are invited to leave condolences, memories and photos at rowefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444 and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown, nwwicremationcenter.com.
