Kathy Quisenberry – 1956-2014
Kathleen Mae (Merriman) Quisenberry passed away the evening of May 14 in her home and with her family by her side. Kathleen (Kathy) was born on July 10, 1956, in Pendleton, Oregon, to Edward Merriman and Virginia (Livingston) Merriman. She grew up in Pendleton and was involved in many activities including painting, ballet, violin and piano. In high school, Kathy was a member of the Pendleton High School Buckarettes and was chosen as the Senior Homecoming Princess. She graduated from PHS in 1975.
After high school, Kathy attended Blue Mountain Community College where she studied dental assisting. After graduation, she moved to Salem to continue her career. In Salem, she worked several years as a dental assistant for Dr. Clifford Hill.
Kathy married Stephen (Steve) Quisenberry on June 7, 1980. She later joined Steve in the family business, Quisenberry Pharmacies, and enjoyed being able to help serve their devoted customers. She wore many different hats in the business, but her main passion was managing the gift section. Her knowledge and talent for maintaining a unique inventory was remarkable.
Kathy and Steve had four children together – Michael, Jon, Andrew and Kelsey. Kathy loved sharing her sense of adventure with her sons and daughter. She enjoyed taking them on trips to the beach, attending sporting events, or spontaneously piling everyone in the car to see a double feature at the local drive-in. She was a fun-loving, devoted and proud mother who would do anything for her children.
In March 2012, Kathy became a grandmother. Kathy and Allison had an amazing bond. During her last two years, some of her happiest times were spent singing, playing and spending time with Allison.
In addition to her busy schedule, Kathy always made time for her family and friends. Kathy loved spending time with people and finding ways to make their days brighter. She always put others first even if it meant sacrificing something for herself.
Kathy is survived by her husband Steve; sons Michael (wife, Jennifer), Jon and Andrew; daughter, Kelsey; granddaughter, Allison; mother, Virginia; brothers Edward Merriman, Charles Randolph Merriman (wife, Ruth), and Robert Merriman (wife, Katrina); sisters Kristine Reedy (husband, Jerry) and Cynthia Miller (husband, Dave); and 18 nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father, Edward Merriman.
Donations may be made in Kathy’s name to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America – Arizona.
Celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, June 21 at the Trinity Covenant Church in Salem, located at 5020 Liberty Rd S, Salem, OR 97306 at 2pm.
