Kathryn A. Oppenlander

Kathryn A. Oppenlander, 99, of Bucyrus, passed peacefully Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at Altercare of Bucyrus. Friends of Kathryn are thankful to all Altercare staff who cared for her during her time there. She loved all of you and considered everyone family.



Kathryn was born September 9, 1922 In Bucyrus Twp., Crawford County to the late Elmer and Esther (Yaussy) Krauter and was a 1941 graduate of Mt. Zion High School. She taught elementary school for a short time at Lykens before marrying Russell W. Oppenlander on August 26, 1946. Following their marriage, she stayed home and became the most loving wife a husband could ask for.

Kathryn was a longtime member of the former Epworth UMC where she was a member of the Ruth Circle and the United Methodist Women.



Kathryn was a woman always on the go. She loved visiting with folks and enjoyed gathering with friends for lunch. She and Russell always looked forward to gathering with her sister and brother-in-law as well as their neighbors to make apple cider. They did this for years and shared many laughs. When one of them had a birthday or anniversary, they always shared a celebratory dinner together. As Russell’s health declined, Kathryn continued her loving care and support by being by her husband’s bedside at the nursing home on a daily basis for seven years. No matter how bad the weather, Kathryn was there.

She is survived by her neighbors of 53 years and close friends, Wayne and Marilyn Hartschuh. In addition to Russell, her husband of 65 years, Kathryn was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and William Downing.



Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 am Tuesday, December 21 at Wise Funeral Service where her funeral will begin that day at 10:30 am with Pastor Mike Corwin officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. For everyone’s safety, it is respectfully requested that face coverings be worn for Kathryn’s services.



Donations can be made payable to Bucyrus UMC and will be accepted through Wise Funeral Service. Memories can be shared on her tribute wall.