Kay Petersen

Kay Frances Petersen, age 87, of Neenah passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Silverstone Memory Care in Grand Chute.

Kay was born on February 4, 1939 in Antigo to the late Albert and Myrtle (Skidmore) Smith. She graduated from Antigo High School, class of 1957.

Kay worked for Kimberly Clark in Neenah for 22 years in mail services. She retired on October 1, 1999. In 1990, Kay purchased a home on Post Lake and moved there permanently in 2000. She belonged to the Elcho book club and exercise group in Elcho. She also volunteered at the food pantry there. Kay loved all things outdoors. She enjoyed fishing, being on the water, snowmobiling, and four wheeling. She also enjoyed bowling, playing softball, horseshoes and playing cards. She treasured watching her kids and grandkids in sports. She dearly loved her dogs as well. In recent years, Kay moved to Neenah to be closer to family.

Kay is survived by her children sons Jody (Gloria) Ackerman of Kaukauna, Mary (James) Cowling of Neenah and James Ackerman of Hortonville, grandchildren Benjamin Ackerman, Laura (Christopher) Pohlman, Jim (Cymone) Cowling, Erica Cowling, Derek (Jennifer) Cowling, Amanda (Adam) Zehner, great grandchildren Rian and David Pohlman, Callie and Koda Cowling, Amelia Goffard, Jeremiah Cowling, Payton, Colton, and Logan Zehner, brother Larry (Suzanne) Smith of Pelican Lake, sister Judy (Terry) Schmutzer of Antigo, sister-in-law Bertha Smith of Two Rivers, former husband Robert Ackerman, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by her beloved granddaughter Hayley Ackerman. Hayley and Kay’s time together was precious, especially their moments at Post Lake. She was also preceded in death by siblings Mary (John) Kriha, Ray (Eunice) Smith, John (Pat) Smith, Phyllis (Jerry) Marvin, Jim (Lorraine) Smith, Bev (Jewett) DeHart, Robert Smith, and special friend Robert Winkel.

A funeral service for Kay will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Strasser-Roller Funeral Home. Visitation will take place prior to the service at the funeral home from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the service at Bent Cemetery in Bryant.

Kay’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Silverstone memory care and Moments Hospice for their care and compassion.

“We’re going to miss you, Mom, more than words can say, but will carry you with us every day. Love you always.”