Born on March 3, 1954, to Fred and Virginia (Tietz) Zastrow, Kathy lived a life centered on family, community, and her passion for youth baseball.
After graduating from high school, Kathy met the love of her life, Gary Wistrom. The two were married in 1974 and built a wonderful life together, raising their children and later cherishing every moment spent with their grandchildren.
For more than 20 years, Kathy and Gary dedicated themselves to the Wausau Area Youth Baseball program. While Gary coached, Kathy became the heart of the league, helping run the organization and supporting countless young athletes and families. Beyond her own family, Little League Baseball was Kathys greatest joy. She loved coaching and encouraging children, cheering them on through their years in the league, and making an impact on their lives that lasted well into adulthood. Her dedication and service earned her the honor of being inducted into the Little League Hall of Fame.
In later years, Kathy especially enjoyed spending time with her family, watching birds from home, and creating lasting memories with her children and grandchildren.
Kathy is survived by her children, Erika (Dan) Staffeil, Travis (Shaina) Wistrom, and Ryan (Megan) Wistrom; her cherished grandchildren, Cole, Jenna, Brooke, Klaire, Gracie, Ember, Bria, Chanelle, Julian, and Natalee; her mother, Virginia Zastrow; siblings, Linda Schroeder, Donna Kufahl, Vicki Detert, Elroy (Sharon) Zastrow, and Arlen Zastrow; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary; her father, Fred; brothers, Wayne Zastrow and Garry(Janet) Zastrow; brothers-in-law, Dick Schroeder and Bruce Kufahl; and her sister, Robin Zastrow.
A visitation will take place on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at John J. Buettgen Funeral Home, 948 Grand Avenue, Schofield, Wisconsin.
Kathy will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering support of others, and the countless lives she touched both on and off the baseball field. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for family and community will live on in all who knew her.
