Kathleen M. LeMaster

Kathleen M. LeMaster, 82, of Moline, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and faithful dog, Bear, on September 24, 2026, at her home.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00AM Friday, October 2nd at Hope United Church of Christ in Moline. Visitation will be held prior to the service at 10:00AM. Burial will be at Greenview Memorial Gardens in East Moline following a luncheon at the church. Memorials may be made to the MS Society or Hope United Church of Christ. We look forward to celebrating Kathleen’s life with her family and friends. To honor her vibrant spirit, please feel free to wear bright colors or her favorite—purple.

Kathleen was born on June 18, 1944, in Moline, the daughter of Dale W. and Jacquelyn L. (Dempsey) Sheley. She graduated from Moline High School and attended Hurley’s Beauty School. She worked as a beautician until her children were born and then chose to stay home, dedicating herself completely to raising them.

It was in this role as a mother that Kathleen truly blossomed. She possessed a quiet, passionate presence, moving through life with a gentle strength and a heart full of deep love and laughter. She was quietly yet fiercely protective of her family, giving true meaning to the term “mama bear,” and she carried an endless amount of supportive energy for her children, taking pride in everything they did. Throughout her life, Kathleen balanced this sensitive, caring nature with an extraordinary resilience. Even when faced with the unimaginable losses of two of her children, she demonstrated unbelievable inner strength. She poured her heart into raising her daughter, Angela, becoming her closest confidant, a steady anchor, and her biggest cheerleader.

Kathleen later worked at the former Lutheran Hospital and Black Hawk College before transitioning to work at the Rock Island Arsenal where she retired in 2005 to take on what she called the best job in the world, being a Nana.

As a devoted Nana, she was a constant fixture at every sporting event, musical, school recognition ceremony, and holiday. She wore the title of Nana (Bonana Fana) with pride. Always a sense of warmth and comfort - her door was open and a listening ear was at the ready.While her traditional career was important, her roles as a Mom and Nana were where she received her favorite accolades.

Kathleen was a member of Hope United Church of Christ and served as former President of the church council, playing a pivotal role in the church's selection of

Reverend Santina Poor. The family would like to thank Santina (Bob) Poor for their friendship and love throughout the years.

Kathleen will be remembered by her family and circle of friends for her love, strength, and compassion.

Survivors include her daughter, Angela Rae (Rick) Baker of Moline; grandchildren, Zachary Shane Baker of Rock Island and Kelsey RaeAnn Baker (James Broach) of Chicago; sister, Jacquelyn “Boots” (Gary) Osborne of Moline.

She is being welcomed home by her infant daughter, Rae Ann LeMaster; son, Shane Phillip LeMaster; brothers, Michael Sheley, Jim Sheley, Ed DeBaker; sister, Patricia Woods; and parents Dale (Pa) and Jacquelyn (Nana) Sheley.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.