Katherine Wieler (Orr) Stebbins

Katherine Wieler (Orr) Stebbins passed into the presence of her Lord and Savior on September 17, 2020. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rod R.C. Stebbins; her parents, Leonard D. and MaryJane Orr; her son, Ronald L. Stebbins and foster children, Diane Syzmanski, James Roberts, Charles and C.J. Marsh; and William Goode.

Katherine was a graduate of Ottawa Hills High School. She worked as a telephone operator and a bank teller. Her true vocation, however, was being a foster mother. Kathy was known for her unconditional love. She is survived by her son, Mark A. (Terri) Stebbins; her brother, David M. (Tina) Orr; sister Joanne (Larry) Orr Chesser; former sister-in-law, Mary Jakubiak, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Additionally, she is survived by many foster children: Elaine Overbeck, Edward (Tamoka) Hendler; Dan Heinicke and children, Rachel, Rebecca and Renae; Grace Marsh and her children, Nick, Josh, Tara, Lucas and Steven; Jeff Roberts and his daughter Dallas; Mark Barrassi; Perry Bell; Rodney Florez; Kevin Canales; Mark Babcock; Matt Colan; Dan Lawrence; Bob Hibbard, and many more. Kathy and Rod cared for over 50 foster teens.

Though some of them have had to move on, many lived nearby and kept “Ma” as an integral part of their lives. These family members will truly miss her counsel and her loving ways.

Katherine’s grandchildren include: Pamela Stebbins; Steve (Heather) Stebbins; Michael (Rachel) Stebbins; Angela Miller; Melinda and Michael Morris; Kathy, Louis and Erik Stebbins and their mother Laura; Jerrime Stebbins and his mother, Paula; Travis Raab and Matt Marsh.

Katherine’s great grandchildren are Cierra, Owen, Aleacia, Landen, Alan Jay, Aalyah, Elysha, Antonio, Xavier, Dartanian, Hunter, and Riley Grace.

Katherine was a long-time and active member of United Church of Wayland.

Our appreciation goes out to the kind and gentle staff at Bryon Center Manor. You made her life so comfortable, in spite of the Covid-19 lockdown. We also thank Kindred Hospice staff for their end of life care.

Katherine’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 1:00 PM at Douglas Walker Park, picnic area A-4. Pastor Eddie Lipscomb will officiate.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Kindred Hospice or God’s Love Ministry.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Katherine Wieler (Orr) Stebbins, please visit our floral store.