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Kathleen Ann Townsend-Shafer, of Warsaw, passed away on August 12, 2025 at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne, at the age of 67. She was born on December 12, 1957 to John and Shirley Townsend. Kathleen built a life characterized by her unwavering commitment to her profession and her deep love for her family and the outdoors.
She graduated from Coldwater High School and later earned her nursing degree from Purdue University in 1996. Kathleen served as a registered nurse at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, where she was known for her compassion and dedication to her patients. She worked there for 27 years.
Kathleen had a profound love for horses, frequently riding on the trails and surrounding herself in nature. She was also deeply passionate about her favorite sports teams, proudly supporting the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cubs. In addition to her hobbies, Kathleen held the position of president of the Indiana Fox Trotter Association, where she continued to share her love for horses with others.
Kathleen leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory. She is survived by her husband Eric Shafer of Warsaw; her children, Richard (Michelle) Pierson of Warsaw, Jessica Pierson of Kentucky, and Tyler (Jessica) Pierson of Kentucky. She found joy in her six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Along with her siblings, John Townsend of Indianapolis, Warren (Cindy) Townsend of Michigan, and Sandra Townsend of South Carolina, will also remember her with love and admiration.
Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents.
A Life Celebration Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 3:00 PM with Pastor Tim Farley of First Baptist Church of Mentone at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan Street, Warsaw, Indiana. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate her life and share their memories.
Donations in memory of Kathleen may be given to the Indiana Trail Riders Association: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=MBHNNDNB6QVXL
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2000 Sheridan St., Warsaw, IN 46580
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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