Kay J. Dirksen , age 81 of Freeport, IL, passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at Manor Court in Freeport. She was born March 4, 1938 in Elizabeth, IL; the daughter of Orville and Nedra (Mitchell) Stadel. She was a 1955 graduate of Elizabeth High School. Kay married Harley Dirksen on January 11, 1975; he passed on September 25, 2005.

Kay has resided in Freeport since 1975. She was a member of the Freeport Eagles Club. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, especially making baby blankets. Together, Kay and Harley enjoyed riding his motorcycle. Kay also loved her pets. Most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren. Kay's family would like to thank her friends and neighbors who have helped her over the years.

She is survived by her sons, Alan (Angie) Roberts of Elizabeth, Larry (Kathy) Roberts of Crystal River, FL, and Dean Roberts of Elizabeth; daughter, Robin Schuman of Tacoma, WA; step-son, Jim (Terri) Dirksen of Freeport; 12 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and brother, Charles Stadel of Rockford. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harley; great grandson, Josiah Alvin Roberts; and nephew, Ricky Stadel.

The funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 15 ^th at 1:00 p.m. at Walker Mortuary in Freeport with a visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport on Monday, December 16 ^th at 9:00 a.m. A memorial fund has been established in her name. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com .