Kathleen Thorp

FLANAGAN – Kathleen Thorp, 85, of Flanagan, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025, at home.

Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Flanagan, with Rev. Ben Blobaum officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the church, followed by the service at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Center Cemetery in Flanagan, with a luncheon to follow at the church. Memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Kathleen was born to Harm and Lenore (Groskreutz) Wiechman on May 16, 1940. She married Don Thorp on December 30, 1967, in Flanagan. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey and Eileen Thorp, and her cherished granddaughters, Tara and Grace. Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband, Don; parents, her brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Betty (Lavens) Wiechman of Metamora, Illinois.

Kathleen earned her undergraduate degree from Illinois State University and a master’s in education from the University of Illinois. A talented musician and dedicated educator, Kathleen taught high school English in Flanagan, Streator, and Woodland High Schools, and also substituted at Cornell. Kathleen contributed to the Flanagan Home Times, including writing several columns. She played for many weddings, funerals, and services at St Johns.

She loved reading, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. Kathleen’s life was devoted to her husband, son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and extended family, including her brother, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, who she loved and adored.

Kathleen’s family will remember her for her steadfast love, compassion, and commitment. Her talent, devotion, and big heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.