Kathleen "Katie" Linda Goessl

Kathleen "Katie" Linda Goessl passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, WI. 

Katie was born on November 10, 1961, to Brynolf and Phyllis Haataja in Escanaba, Michigan. She was the fourth born out of eleven children: Karen, Linda Sue, Karla, Katie, John, James, Jody, Kay, Kristine, Kimberly and Jeffrey. 

Katie met and fell in love with Jeffrey Goessl. They were married on December 31, 1984. Together they had two daughters, Melissa and Sara. Throughout their 40-year marriage, Katie and Jeff "adopted" and helped raise multiple children, including Katie's youngest brother, Jeffrey; Katie's nieces, Bonnie and Mandy; Katie's great-niece, Analicia; and Katie's nephew, Josh. 

Katie was a graduate of Mosinee High School, served in the National Guard, and then attended North Central Technical College, where she earned a degree in Business Management. 

Katie truly believed her calling was family devotion. She was the glue that held the family together. She was always there to help someone in need, organize family events, and many nights were spent with her the phone talking to a close friend or family member having a meaningful conversation with a puzzle at her fingertips. She absolutely loved spending as much time as she could with her biological grandchildren - Giana, Jocelyn, Caiden, Myles, Lexi and Lana - and her "adopted" grandchildren - Jeremy, Lila, April, June, Ruby and Ava. 

Katie was a woman with many talents and interests. She was a 4-H leader, she always had a puzzle out on the table, an avid gardener, and a seasonal camper. There was nothing she enjoyed more than a hot, long bath. She was also a night owl who enjoyed her weekly games of pool or playing slots at the casino.

Katie was spiritual in her own way, believing you can find God everywhere - even under a rock. She would meditate in her garden, praying for others. She believed her own mother became a cardinal who would come visit her on occasion. No doubt, Katie is now looking down on us all, wanting us all to stay united in family and live happy lives despite what hardships are thrown at us. 

Katie is reunited in death with her father, Brynolf Haataja; her mother, Phyllis Harry-Haataja; her sister, Linda Sue Haataja; her brother, Jody Brian Haataja; and her brother-in-law, Ted Wierzba.

Katie is survived by her husband, her children, and her siblings: Karen (Pat), Karla, John, James, Kay, Kristine, Kimberly, and Jeff (Sara). She is also survived by her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 17th from 9 AM - 11 AM at the First  Unitarian Universalist Church, 504 Grant Street, Wausau. A funeral service will follow at 11 AM in the Church with a luncheon to follow.