Kiyoko "Kay" (Tanaka) Richling

Kiyoko "Kay" (Tanaka) Richling went to her Heavenly home on her birthday, March 8, 2014. Kay was born on March 8, 1932 in Tokyo, Japan. It was there that she met and married George A. Richling, who was stationed in Japan. They later divorced. Kay came to the United States in 1957, and although very proud of her native country, considered the United States her home. She lived in Kenosha, and later moved to Antigo, where she lovingly raised her family. She worked for Sheldon's Inc., tying flies at home, and also worked for local potato farmers during harvest. She later went to work in the Sheldon's plant, and was very grateful for her employment there. She was a friend to many, including her dearest friend, Peg Doucette. Kay retired in 1991, but continued to visit Sheldon's often, and brought cookies every year during the holidays. Kay was gifted in many ways, but the greatest gift of all, was that of Mother. From school projects, cooking, sewing, constructing teepees in the living room or snow mazes in the front yard - her time was spent for her children. She was a quiet woman, without complaint. She counted her blessings instead of her hardships, and encouraged others to do the same. She lived a full life with little regret, and was a role model for all who knew her. She most enjoyed time spent with her children, grandchildren, and her friend Peg. Kay loved to walk, and really enjoyed time spent on the Walking Trail. Kay attended St. Peter Lutheran Church, and enjoyed her many visits from Pastor Engebretson at Homme Home, where she lived since November 2012. Kay was under the care of AseraCare Hospice at the time of her death. Kay is survived by her five children: Barbara Washatko, Milwaukee; James Richling, Antigo; Lynda (John) Henfer, Two Rivers; Patricia (Ken) Washatko and John Richling, all of Antigo. She is further survived by fourteen grandchildren: Jason and Justin Washatko; Josh and Sarah Richling; Kaidan and Dakota Whitehouse, and Ian Henfer; Deakin, Zackary and Seth Washatko, and Brittany Santiago; Maddy, Izzy and Gabby Richling; and fourteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her ex-husband, George Richling, and a grandson, Jeremy Washatko. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, N2891 Highway S, Polar, WI, on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at 10:00am. Visitation will be from 9:00am-10:00am Wednesday at the church. Strasser-Roller Funeral Home is assisting the family. Friends may visit online at www.strasserrollerfh.com