After changing their last name to Kaul, Kathleen, the oldest child born to Charles and Bertha Kowalewski in Milwaukee, WI, moved to Orange, California.  Upon completion of studies at Orange High School in 1958, Kathleen embarked on the first of many adventures by enlisting in the US Army where she was stationed in Germany for peace-keeping duties. There she met her first husband, Neil E. Swanson.  They had two daughters and settled in Portland, Oregon.  Their marriage ended in divorce. 

Kathleen, known as Kathy, and later as "Kay" was a speedy typist and worked hard in law enforcement; first for the City of Portland Police Department,  then Wahkiakum Sheriff's Department  finally retiring from Cowlitz County Sheriff's Department.  Through a second marriage, a beauty salon as well as a trucking company were owned and operated.  

Kay's adventurous spirit continued in learning how to drive a truck, sailing and fishing.  She was known for her love of baking and proudly received the Grand Champion ribbon at a local county fair for her Chocolate Chiffon Cake with Cream Cheese frosting.  She was an active member of the church, St Stephen's Episcopal in Longview, WA and Saving Grace Calvary Chapel in Gilbert, AZ.  

When she fully retired from employment she embarked on a journey to see every state in the Union in her 21 foot RV with her cat, Widget.  Alaska is the only state she never got to go to or see.  Eventually Kay settled in Mesa, AZ, and helped to set up a church library, enjoyed the sun, swimming pool and was an active participant in her community.  Sadly, a return to Vancouver, WA was necessary for the care of her Alzheimer's diagnosis.  

Kay is survived by her daughters Linda Plamondon (John) and Joanne Ryan (Mike), both of Vancouver, WA; sister-in-law Sigrid Kaul of Orange, CA; niece Shelley Anne Webb (Dan), nephew Christopher Kaul (Bao).  The family is grateful for the care provided to Kay by the staff of Brookdale in Vancouver, WA.  A celebration of life is planned for May 2026 at Crossroads Community Church in Vancouver, WA.