Katherine Schwenk

"Grandma taught me all the names of birds and how to love reading in the sunshine." Katherine Joanna Schwenk passed away peacefully on May 6th, 2025. She was born on April 5th, 1930, to Robert Mumby and Evelyn Shellenbarger. Known for her love of being involved with children, Joanna was a 4-H Leader for over 41 years. She started the first club in Portage called the Clovers 4-H club. She was recognized for her service on local and state levels. Joanna was also a cherished volunteer for the Red Cross. She rocked babies and interacted with children on the Pediatric floor at Bronson Hospital. Joanna was honored to be chosen as the Kalamazoo County Homemaker of the year in 1985. Joanna was married to Lee Schwenk for 63 years, who preceded her in death. She was preceded in death by her sister Judith Sharp and brother Barry Mumby. Joanna is survived by three children; Tom (Jane) Schwenk of Park City Utah, Steve (Carmen) Schwenk of East Leroy Michigan, Janet Chambers of Winter Garden Florida; 9 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10th at Langland Funeral Homes, 411 East Centre Avenue, Portage, Michigan 49002 from 10am to 12pm. A private graveside service will be held right after for immediate family. Special thanks to Friendship Village of Kalamazoo and the Elara Hospice team. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Children's Health at Bronson Health Foundation, 301 John Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007. To view Joanna's personalized guestbook, please visit https://www.langelands.com Memories are the timeless treasures of the heart.