Kathryn Peckman

Kathryn Peckman, a devoted community leader, loving mother, and cherished friend, passed away on June 14, 2025, in Osawatomie, Kansas, at the age of 82. Born on November 19, 1942, in Sedalia, Missouri, Kathy's life journey began in a modest town and evolved into a remarkable tale of commitment to her profession, family, and community.

Kathy embarked on a varied and impactful career that began at Honeywell/KCP&L. Her professional journey continued as she joined Gulf + Western (Taylor Forge) and the City of Paola. Later, she took on a role at the JCPenney Warehouse in Lenexa. With unwavering dedication, she proudly served as the Miami County Clerk from 1993 until her retirement in 2009, during which time she made a significant and lasting impact on local governance and community affairs.

Throughout her educational pursuits, Kathy demonstrated a strong commitment to growth and learning. She graduated from Brookfield High School in Brookfield, Wisconsin, in 1960, and furthered her education at the University of Wisconsin. Later, in 1984, she achieved certification in computer programming from Platt College, Overland Park, KS showcasing her adaptability to technological advancements.

Kathy was profoundly proud of her accomplishments, which included being a certified diver and a breast cancer survivor. She earned recognition as a state bowling champion and was honored with the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) Medallion Award for her efforts to modernize voting processes, including the introduction of electronic voting in Miami County. Her dedication to her community is also evident from her service on the USD #368 School Board, as a member of the Paola City Council Board, and as a board member for the Kansas Associate of Counties and the Miami County Medical Center Auxiliary.

Outside her professional life, Kathy was known for her vibrant personality and kindness. She was an excellent choir director at Trinity Lutheran Church and always brought joy to her gatherings, whether she was reviving spirits with a hand of bridge or sharing laughter with friends. Kathy’s love for adventure took her to wonderful places, such as snorkeling in the Cayman Islands and enjoying sunsets on the beach in Siesta Key, Florida, and whale watching with her husband in Alaska. Her hobbies extended to gardening, historical documentation, golfing, and international travel, all of which contributed to her rich tapestry of life experiences.

Kathy was married to Thomas C. D'Amato on September 12, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a union that later ended in divorce. She found love again with Darrell Peckman, whom she married on June 21, 1974. Kathy was confirmed in the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church, embracing her faith throughout her life.

Kathy is survived by her brothers, Stan Whisner and David and Judy Whisner; brother-in-law, Lloyd Peckman; daughters, Shelley D'Amato, Beth D'Amato and spouse Ed Parry, and Erica Peckman and spouse Chris Hamm; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and extended family who will dearly miss her warmth and vibrancy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Helen Whisner; her beloved husband, Darrell Peckman; and her brother, Wade Whisner.

Visitation will be held at Dengel & Son Mortuary in Paola, Kansas, on June 19, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will take place the following day, June 20, at Block-Trinity Lutheran Church, beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by burial services at 11:00 AM.

Kathy Peckman will be remembered for her unwavering generosity, her zest for life, and her indelible impact on all those fortunate enough to know her.

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