Katherine J. Gribbin, age 59, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at the Hospice House in St. Joseph County after a life well lived. Kathy was born January 22, 1954 in Marion, Indiana to the late Francis W. and Freda M. (Heeter) Gribbin. She graduated from Oak Hill High School in 1972, received her Bachelor''s degree in Communications in 1976 from Bethel College, a Master''s degree in Student Personnel from Western Michigan University, and went on to earn her Doctorate in education from Trinity International University.

Kathy is survived by her brother, Donald (Ann) Gribbin of Portage, Michigan, several cousins, and many friends.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 pm Saturday, February 9, 2013 at St. Mark Missionary Church, 55240 Bittersweet Road, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.. There will also be one hour of calling prior to the 3:00 pm funeral service at St. Mark Missionary Church on Sunday, February 10, 2013. Kathy will be laid to rest in Converse Cemetery.

Kathy was employed as the Vice President for Life Calling and Student Enrichment at Bethel College in Mishawaka for many years. She was an active member of St. Mark Missionary Church, loved to travel and visit new places, and shop. Her capacity for friendship and outgoing personality led her to mentor many students and live her life to the fullest. She loved to entertain friends and family, and bake her famous chocolate chip cookies for many events.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kathy Gribbin Scholarship fund, c/o Bethel College.