Katherine Herbst

Katherine Herbst

May 19, 1949 - January 20, 2024

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Obituary

Katherine R. “Kathy” Herbst, 75, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died Monday, January 20, 2025, at SSM-St. Mary's Hospital, Madison.  She was born May 19, 1949, the daughter of Albert E. and Adeline R. (Nejedly) Spencer of Illinois.

Kathy was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and received her master's degree in school administration from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.  Her early years were spent teaching Physical Education at Platteville High School.  Kathy was a coach for the girls' volleyball, girls' basketball and girl's track.    While coaching Platteville High School won the volleyball state championship in 1977, 1979, and 1994 and runner up in 1978. She was very proud to have had over 200 victories as head coach.    Kathy eventually became the Athletic Director.   The last position she held in her career was as the Assistant Principal of Platteville High School, retiring in 2005 after 30 years in the education field.  Kathy enjoyed fishing, golf and bowling.

Kathy is survived by her sister, Sally Schanlaber, brothers, Jack (Maryanne) Spencer and David Spencer and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Bruce and Alan Spencer.

Per Kathy's wishes, there will not be any formal services.  Melby Funeral Home & Crematory of Platteville, Wisconsin is serving the family.  Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.

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Katherine
TH
Tammy Harms-Myers
Other •
So sorry to hear of Kathy's passing, she was a great teacher, coach and representative of PHS. Prayers to you and your family.
MB
michele bartels
Other •
my deepest sympathy, I had Kathy for not only a teacher but a great friend, she always had a smile & "how ya doing kid"? I loved her spirit! God bless, she made this world a better place & we will miss her!
SN
Stacie Needham
Other •
I’m very sorry to hear this news. Coach Herbst will always be remembered by me for her tough love and her dedication and grit that she passed on in her coaching in volleyball. I will also be forever grateful for the support she showed me through difficult times my Junior year. My deepest condolences to her family and friends, Stacie (Sheldon) Needham
BR
Becky Reich
Other •
I'm so sorry to hear of Mrs. Herbst's passing. She always encouraged students and athletes to put in 100% effort, and while we may not have appreciated it at the time, she helped develop thousands of kids into strong, adults. Rest in Peace.
KS
Kathy Stecklein
Other •
To the Family of Kathy Herbst. Our Families thoughts and Prayers are with you all. She was the most respected and bestteacher/ Priciple PLATTEville High School has ever had. When she found out she was wrong for blaming my daughter on something she being the person she was went out in the Cafeteria and Apologized to my daughter in front of all the students. . She was the most wonderful upbeat person We have had the pleasure to know. Our Prayers are with you all.
RS
Rob Serres
Other •
Hi Marie - Rob Serres Here. Simply wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you and you have my sympathies. Kathy was always very kind and mentoring to me. She was a wonderful, positive person who make an impact in my life. Hope you are well. Love to you -Rob

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