Kathleen Ann Ertle, 85, of Massillon, passed away on November 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on September 28, 1940 to the late Joseph and Mildred (Youngblood) Tully in Massillon, OH. She was the oldest of eight siblings.
A graduate of Central Catholic High School, Kathy married her first love Gary and they were together for 66 years until his recent passing on October 10, 2025. Kathy's greatest joy was her family. She was a huge animal lover and took care of many rescued dogs, cats, and bunnies. She also enjoyed sitting outside watching the birds and squirrels, whom she faithfully fed.
Kathy was athletic and enjoyed playing tennis, racquetball and golf. She was also an avid swimmer and bowler. She was known for her beautiful smile and kind soul. Kathy never met a stranger and befriended many people over the years. She volunteered at Massillon Community Hospital, where she touched the lives of many. Kathy was known for her joy of shopping and never missed a good sale. You would never hear Kathy say "Less is more" and if she liked something she would buy it in every color!
In spite of her 7 year battle with Alzheimer's disease, Kathy maintained her kind and loving nature along with her ornery sense of humor.
Kathy is survived by her loving children, Deborah DiLoreto, Wendy Rowley, Kenneth Ertle, and Heather J. (Vicki Hoffman) Ertle; grandchildren, Ross Rowley, Jennifer (Christopher) Wagstaff, and Ryan DiLoreto; great-grandchildren, Ellie Rowley, Rylee Wagstaff, and Nolan Wagstaff; six devoted siblings; loving nieces and nephews; and extended family and friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Gary; infant brother, Michael; and beloved granddaughter, Summer Rowley.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 5, 2025, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, Massillon, with a memorial service at 5:00 pm, Chaplain Paul Hostetler officiating.
A special thank you to Kathy's team from Absolute Hospice: Latticia, Kristen, Charlotte, Melissa, Emily, Denise, and Chaplain Paul.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
To share a memory of Kathy or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.
Paquelet and Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Homes
Paquelet and Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Homes
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