Kathy Joy Deka, 77, passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in Niles, Michigan.
Kathy was born on December 20, 1947 in Niles, Michigan to the late Ronald Robinson and Clara (Parat) Robinson.
Along with her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her sisters, Donna Robinson and Karen Robinson.
Left to cherish the memory of Kathy are her children, Samantha (Scott) Thalman, Jason (Amy) Deka, and Judy (Adam) Skinner; grandchildren, Samson Thalman, Scarlet Thalman, Krystalin (Stephen) Skinner, and Scott (Kate) Skinner, and great grandchildren, Chase, Ashton, Orion, and Scout Skinner.
Kathy was a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished friend whose kindness and warmth touched everyone she met. She had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcomed, whether she was hosting a holiday gathering, organizing multi-family camping trips, or simply opening her home to those she loved.
Kathy dedicated much of her life to meaningful work that reflected her deep respect for history, culture, and community. During her time at the Northern Indiana Historical Society, one of her proudest accomplishments was her work on the Polish Worker House, a project that honored her heritage and preserved important local history. Later, while working with the Potawatomi Tribe, she made a lasting impact through her efforts in the education department, recording the voices and stories of elders so that their language and traditions would continue for generations to come. Kathy also served with the American Cancer Society, where she brought comfort and support to countless individuals through her patient outreach work.
Outside of her professional life, Kathy found joy in the simple beauty of nature. She loved tending her flower and vegetable gardens, spending time outdoors, and sharing traditional Polish food with family and friends. Her love for her family was boundless, and she created a home filled with laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging that will never be forgotten.
Kathy’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the stories she preserved, and the love she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Memorial contributions in honor of Kathy may be made out to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Visitation for Kathy will be on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 10:00am to 11:00am with a Memorial Service to be held at 11:00am at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.
Photos, condolences, and memories may be shared with Kathy’s family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com
Services
Visitation
Monday, December 22, 2025 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Street, Niles, MI 49120
Memorial Service
Monday, December 22, 2025 11:00AM
Brown Funeral Home
Posted On: Thursday, December 18, 2025 4:00 PM
