Kathleen H. Bieniek

1938 – 2021

Kathleen Helen Bieniek, age 83, of Mahtomedi, MN passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 14, 2021.

Kathleen was born October 1, 1938 to Toivo and Jennie (Martonen) Ihamaki in Au Train Township, near Negaunee, Michigan. At 18, she was working as a secretary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and during this time she met and fell in love with Frank Bieniek. They married on March 23, 1957, and shortly thereafter started their family. Over the years, they were blessed with six children.

Kathleen leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. She loved playing cards and Scrabble, listening to music, reading mystery novels, enjoying Sunday car rides, visiting with friends and especially spending time with family. Kathleen had the ability to make everyone feel welcomed and at home. She was always willing to lend an ear and would offer gentle guidance if asked. Kathleen was committed to her family, making sure that each of them knew they held a place in her heart.

Kathleen will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her six children and their families—Nona (Randi) Carpenter; Sally (Roger) Hamm; Steven (Kaye) Bieniek; Julie (Lori Heikkinen) Bieniek; Judith (Rod) Negus; Michael Bieniek; 10 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren—and two siblings, Sally Mitchell and Keith Ihamaki. Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents and husband Frank.

Private family services will be held at a later date.