Kathy Lee Brewer
Obituary

It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Kathy Lee Brewer on July 23, 2026, at the age of 72.

Kathy was born on June 5, 1954, and was lovingly adopted by Les and Pearl Riehl of Appleton, Wisconsin, on December 6, 1954. Throughout her life, Kathy embraced every opportunity with courage, determination, and an adventurous spirit that inspired those around her.

Kathy dedicated many years of service as a Clerk of Court in Outagamie County, earning the respect of colleagues and community members alike. She later devoted much of her career to legal advocacy, civil rights, and pursuing fair pay and workplace equity through union organization. She believed deeply in standing up for others and helping create a more just and compassionate world.

To know Kathy was to love her. She was known for her larger-than-life personality, quick wit, competitive nature, and boundless enthusiasm for life. She found joy in music, cherished animals, loved card games, and never passed up the chance for a new adventure. After raising her children, Kathy proved that it is never too late to pursue a dream when she earned her pilot’s license, a testament to her fearless and independent spirit.

Above all, Kathy treasured her family. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Rick Brewer; her children, Heather (Tim) Riehl, Ben Olson, and Lindsay (Mario) Olson-Mack; her grandchildren, Tia Riehl, Bailey (Bri) Riehl, Tristan Vandenberg, Jamar Mack, Carlos Mack, Leilani Mack, Skyler Olson, and Keira Olson; her great-grandsons, Cooper Vandenberg and Cash Riehl; her brother, Jerry (Ruth) Riehl; and many cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Les and Pearl Riehl, and her brother, Rick Riehl.

Kathy’s love, laughter, and unforgettable presence will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. A Celebration of Life will be held in late September at Half Moon Lake in Brazeau, Wisconsin. Kathy will be deeply missed and forever remembered.