Kathleen "Kathy" L. Schattschneider

Kathleen L. ”Kathy” Schattschneider (nee Ritonia), a beloved wife, mother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on March 29, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kathy was a dedicated and passionate educator who profoundly impacted the lives of her students during her tenure at 21st Century Prep School in Racine. Despite her battle with Parkinson's disease, her indomitable spirit shone brightly, and she inspired many with her unwavering commitment to teaching and her love for her students. 

Kathy’s academic journey began when graduating from Grafton High School as well as the University of Oshkosh, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. Her professional path was diverse, including management positions at well-known establishments such as McDonald's, Shopko, Target, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Blockbuster. However, her true calling emerged when she pursued her teaching certificate from Alverno College, leading her to the fulfilling career she cherished profoundly.

 She was a proud member of the National Honor Society and took great pleasure in facilitating its activities, fostering excellence and leadership among her students. Kathy was an avid supporter of Wisconsin sports, cheering passionately for the Brewers, the Packers—especially for her favorite player Brett Favre—the Bucks, and the Badgers, always celebrating her love for her home state's teams. 

Kathy also had many cherished hobbies. She delighted in cooking with her son, listening to Barbra Streisand, watching her favorite movies White Christmas and Sound of Music, needlepoint, and she savored late nights scrapbooking memories filled with laughter and love. Her fondness for Disney was evident in her many visits to Disney World and her extensive collection of Disney memorabilia, showcasing her youthful heart and unwavering love for all things magical. 

Family meant the world to Kathy, especially her husband, Ron and son, Alex. She adored her nieces and nephews and took great joy in spending time with them and their families. Family vacations, sunny days, the Christmas holidays, spa visits, and swimming at the gym were among her simplest pleasures, always shared with those she loved.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Ron Schattschneider, son, Alex Schattschneider, and siblings, Mike (Ann) Ritonia, and Pete (Lynn) Ritonia. She is further survived by many other relatives and friends. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Joan Ritonia, and her uncles, Jerry Rauwald and Tom Rauwald. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Kathleen's honor on December 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM at St. Joseph Catholic Church (1619 Washington St.), Grafton, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and legacy. Prior to the Mass, a visitation will occur at the church, from 3:00 PM until the time of service. Following her wishes, Kathleen will be cremated, with the inurnment taking place at a later date at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation in Kathleen’s name, honoring her fierce spirit and determination. 

May her memory forever inspire those she touched, reminding all that a life lived with love, laughter, and passion is a truly remarkable gift.