Katherine Vallely McIntyre

Katherine Vallely McIntyre

Katherine McIntyre passed away peacefully on Friday May 15, 2026 at The Classics at Hillcrest Green in Altoona, WI. She was 87 years old.

Born April 20, 1939 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Kate was the daughter of William D. and Laurene McIntyre, both prominent citizens of Eau Claire. She was the elder sibling to William McIntrye Jr. (Bill) who preceded her in death by just over a year.

Kate lived most of her life in Eau Claire and at the family's cherished lake cottage in Chippewa County.

She is survived by her beloved partner of nearly five decades Gerald Strader of Altoona, WI. Also by two loving sons, Warren McIntyre Durning (Mac) of Seattle, WA, and Hugh Durning of Asheville, NC.

Although never a grandparent herself, she maintained close family ties with nephews Duane and Michael McIntyre, and Duane's children Alex and Marco. She also had a familial relationship with her dearest friend Carol Benning, as well as children James, Geoffrey, and Mary Grace. 'Katy' and Carol became fast friends in early childhood, and remained extraordinarily close until the end.

Kate had a distinguished career in the field of Library Science, earning a Master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1976. She went on to work at the William D. McIntyre Library on the UW-Eau Claire campus, retiring in 2003 as a professor in the Cataloging department.

Kate's life was marked by several deep and enduring friendships, many formed during her involvement with the UW-Eau Claire theater department as an amateur actress. Others developed with colleagues at work. Some longstanding relationships of note include George Shannon, Wil Denson and Judy Sims, Andrea and Penelope (Penny) Cecchini, Jeff Rochon, and Cheryl Cutsforth. A true testament to her undying love is her continued care for the extended family of Rita and Robert Tomah, former neighbors who moved to Oregon over fifty years ago.

She will be missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood of Eau Claire and/or Feed my People of Eau Claire.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.