Judith Kay “Kate” Walberg, age 86, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Franklyn B. Walberg and Jeanette M. Walberg (Higbee), Known as Judy for half her life she grew up on the family dairy farm in Kansas City, Kansas, graduated from Rosedale High School in 1957, married David P. Rowlands and had three children: Michael, Mary Beth, and Mark. Later, she married James W. Mirick, welcoming two step-daughters, Karin and Michelle, into her ever-growing circle of family.
An eternal learner and lover of the arts, Judy earned her Bachelor of Arts (Art/Psychology) from Washburn University in 1990 and a Master of Science in Community Counseling (Art Therapy) from Emporia State University in 1994. She devoted her professional life to helping others—as a certified massage therapist, caregiver, realtor, secretary, Chi Omega house mother, and elder-care advocate—always blending compassion with creativity.
After moving to Lawrence in 1997, Judy became “Kate” and lived her life in her own colorful way. She found her people at the Lawrence Antique Mall and thrived in a community that celebrated her wit, humor, and creative spirit. Living independently until 2025 she transitioned seamlessly into assisted living where she brought her colorful ways to her new community. In her last days she was surrounded by her creative work space with classical music playing and being visited by family, friends and amazing care givers. She expressed her wish to move on to a new adventure.
Kate is survived by her siblings Michael, Frankie (Mock) and Linda (Bauer) children Michael, Mary Beth, and Mark Rowlands; step-daughters Karin Mirick and Michelle Swankowski; three grandchildren, Jimmy Mirick, Ethan Hernandez, and Macsen Rowlands; and her longtime friend and ex-husband, Jim Mirick, who became family in every sense.
A celebration of Kate’s life will be held later this spring around tulip time.
Rest well, Kate. The world is brighter for having had your spark in it.
