Kathryn Marie Milke, 52, of Rockford, passed away on October 3, 2026. Born December 31, 1973, in Portsmouth, Virginia, she was the daughter of Patricia Carlson. Kathryn graduated from Stagg High School in Palos Hills with the Class of 1992 and later attended art college in Chicago.

Creativity was simply part of who Kathryn was. A talented bass player, she met her future husband, Gregory "Greg" Milke, while the two were playing in a band called Primal Scream. Their shared love of music grew into something much more, and they were united in marriage on October 6, 1995.

Kathryn had an incredibly creative mind and a gift for making something special out of just about anything. She was an accomplished crafter who created beautiful centerpieces and decorations and had a natural talent for event planning. If there was an idea in her head, chances were she could figure out how to bring it to life.

That creativity carried right into the kitchen. Kathryn was a phenomenal cook who rarely needed a recipe. She could look through the ingredients she had on hand and somehow turn them into an amazing meal. She could eat something at a restaurant, go home, recreate it-and very often make it even better. In true Kathryn fashion, she called this having "Kathyized it."

Above all, Kathryn was an amazing mom and loved her family fiercely. She brought that same intensity to the people she cared about. She was loyal, protective, outspoken and unforgettable-a fierce friend who would stand beside the people she loved without hesitation. You always knew where you stood with Kathryn, and those fortunate enough to be part of her circle knew just how deeply she cared.

Kathryn lived creatively, loved fiercely, cooked fearlessly and left her unmistakable touch on the people and places around her.

She is survived by her husband, Greg; son, Justin Kelso; sister, Celia Victoria (Nicholas) Zamarippa; mother-in-law, Carol Milke; brothers-in-law, Brian (Sue) Milke, Nick (Lisa) Milke, sister-in-law, Dee Milke; and special friends, Rick and Carol Schalkewitz. She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.