Christine G. Kadel

Our mother, Christine Gertrude Kadel, was called into the light on December 28, 2008. A mixed blessing it was with body and mind so weak and determination so strong, her faithful soul prevailed and was raised to His verdant pastures. She was 87 years old. She was the eldest of nine and was called upon to lead by example while young as her mother passed early on. She was the kindest of heart, quietest of emotion and most humble in her deeds. The compassion she held for those around her was that of an angel. Cynical words were not of her vocabulary. She was the comforter throughout our lives.
Born April 12, 1921 in Tipton, KS to Felix and Gertrude Wessling Gengler, our mother grew up on the farm, walked miles to Plum Creek School and survived the dust storms. She finished eighth grade but her family responsibilities kept her from finishing high school until she drove to Topeka, KS to get her GED when she was nearly 65.
She worked at Hildagarde Arend's Clothing Store in Beloit in the 1930s where fore she was able to put her good eye for fashion to practice. In 1938 she earned the title of Miss Beloit in the local beauty pageant. And, on June 3, 1940, her life on earth truly began when she married our father, Noel V. (Red) Kadel. Don't be fooled by the fact that she was Miss Beloit for her hands got as dirty as any man's. She was the right hand of Red's as they expanded in wheat and cattle, all the while raising the five of us. She was a tireless worker. I guess that's why they say "behind every successful man there is a woman". Never giving herself credit for anything, she was just the quiet strength behind everybody.
As with any mother she wanted us to go far. We remember her creativity as she dreamed up ways for us to challenge ourselves and step outside the box. This was apparent as she suggested unique 4-H demonstrations for us to present or that I sing the theme song for a special Mother's Day Luncheon. It didn't matter to her that I couldn't carry a tune!
Her voice was of harmony not only in song, but as a peacemaker. It brings to mind the older brothers as they scuffled to be first into the shower. And there she was standing between the two young men with the long and short straws for drawing. Fairness in all things was important to her.
Finally, she and Red found some time to travel. From New York to Portland and Athens to Dublin, the little girl form Tipton, KS loved it and just fit in everywhere. They enjoyed adventures and were open to anything new. To gain knowledge about others in other cultures was truly fulfilling. And could she dance…you have never seen her smile brighter than when she and Red stepped out in front of the orchestra. Some of our happiest memories of her were made as she would gather us all around the player piano and we would all sing the good old songs with her. A lively time was always had by all when with her.
Her grandchildren recognized that she was special. When one grandson was assigned a grade school paper and the topic was to name someone that you think could be a saint, she became the subject of that essay. She was devoted to God and lived every day of her life in anticipation of heaven.
She so enjoyed the friendships she made through the years. Her personal affiliations included: Catholic Daughters of America, Ad Volens Club, Poinsettia Club, Ladies Guild, and Beloit Country Club. She was very skilled at and loved her Bridge and Pinochle games with her friends whom she had so much fun with through the years. And she was always ready to watch a good ballgame in any sport.
In addition to her parents, passing before her was that of her husband and our father Red Kadel on January 3, 2004. They had celebrated nearly 64 beautiful years together. Also preceding her in death were three brothers: Raymond, Walt, and Harold Gengler, a sister: Dorothy Gengler, an infant grandson: Michael Anthony Stone, and an infant great granddaughter: Madison Elaine McInerney.
Surviving her are five children: Karol Kadel, Topeka, Steve Kadel (MaryLee), Beloit, Roger Kadel (Janet), Tigard, OR, Jeri Kadel, Roeland Park, KS, Erick Kadel (fiancé Sherris Waddell), Beloit. Brothers: Melvin and Bob Gengler (Lois), Beloit. Sisters: Helen Moxter (Lawrence), Ellsworth, KS, and Mary Ellen Lange (Jim), Beloit. Brother-in-law Lowell Kadel (Helen), Acampo, CA, 13 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Of her legacy we learned of peace among all and the greatest of gifts, our faith in God. Oh, our tears are of joy. Undoubtedly, we have this vision of her and our daddy, arm in arm and skipping to the tune of the Beer Barrel Polka which causes us to pause and grin.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, January 3, 2009 at the St. John's Catholic Church followed by burial in St. John's Cemetery. A rosary service will be at 7:00 PM Friday at McDonald Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer's Association, Diabetes Association, or St. John's Memorial Trust Fund.