Denise Presnell
July 30, 2025
I am very sad to see that Kay passed. I've known Kay for many years through our small artist community in Sheboygan. Her work and her spirit will be missed.
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Kathleen M. Jelinek, who was a lifelong advocate of the arts, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rich in creativity, compassion, and love.
Kay was born and raised in Preston, Minnesota, the oldest daughter of Leo and Delphine Gartner. Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Ron, and her sister, Patty. Kay is survived by her sons Steve (Kim) Jelinek and Scott (Kate) Jelinek-Zittel, as well as five grandchildren (Zach, Ashlyn, Josephine, Keira, and Liz) and two great-grandchildren (Vera and Jack). She is also survived by her siblings: Joe, Leonard, and Joan. Kay will be deeply missed by her extended family and friends.
Kay’s passion for the arts led her to Viterbo College where she earned her B.A. Later she earned her Masters of Education at UW-Whitewater. Kay dedicated much of her career to teaching art in the Janesville School District, where she worked to instill creativity in her students. Kay retired as an educator in 1996. In 2008 Kay moved to Sheboygan, where she became a key figure in the local art community.
A celebration of Kay’s life will be held Tuesday, August 5th at the Deland Home: 1107 N. 4th Street, Sheboygan, WI 53081 overlooking Lake Michigan from 1-6pm. Some of Kay’s most memorable art pieces will be on display. All who knew Kay are welcome.
A private funeral will be held at a later date.
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Betsy Alles
July 29, 2025
I loved my time living next-door to Kay in Sheboygan. I noticed her basement studio light on very late at night — often well into the morning hours — as she completed her beautiful pieces. Her home was full of light and her own art as well as works she collected from so many others. She gave herself fully to promoting others’ art as well as to helping build the art community. Eric and I cherish our memories of time with her and I will wink at the collaborative piece we did together each time I walk by it. May she rest now in peace knowing her artwork lives in our homes and hearts. ❤️
Sara Risley
July 29, 2025
Kay was such an extraordinary talent and incredible human. I loved her art and her passion for others’ art. I loved visiting her in her art filled home to talk about art, what else? I am so happy I own a painting of Kay’s. I will smile every time I look at it and remember the fabulous human who created it. Rest peacefully, Dearest Kay.