Kathleen Atherton Tyler (nee Halpin) was born May 6, 1951, in Kalamazoo and died June 26, 2026, in Kalamazoo, MI

With deep regret, we share that our beloved sister Kate peacefully passed away Friday June 26 at age 75, with her family and friends close by. Her cause of death was due to complications from brain seizures.

Kate was the firstborn child of Charles Edward Halpin and Ellen Mary Wenham who preceded her in death. She is survived by her sisters Wynefred Wendelken (Hal) of Chelsea MI and Robin Halpin of Millwood NY, and by her brothers Patrick Halpin (Peggy Wray) of Portage MI and Brian Halpin (Claudia Thornton) of Portland OR as well as her best feline friend Harper.

Kate lived life energetically — she was a dedicated artist who possessed a keen eye for detail. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Western Michigan University and enjoyed a successful career as an art director and graphic designer. Kate created and designed hundreds of logos, branding concepts, and graphic design for businesses throughout her career. In addition, she was an accomplished fine artist who conceived large scale paintings that burnished her reputation as a unique talent. Her paintings invited viewers to look more deeply, finding their own stories within her work.

Kate also had a gentle spirit and a deep love of the natural world. She found peace along the shores of Lake Michigan, in quiet woods, and wherever birds and wildlife gathered. Her appreciation for nature informed both her life and her art, reminding those around her to slow down, observe closely and find beauty in the ordinary.

She cherished her many friendships and her extended family of many great nieces and nephews and many great grand nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her nephew Paul Schumann.

During these last few months, Kate bravely faced her shortened life with grace and humor. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 1, in Kalamazoo MI (details posted here when confirmed). A private family lake committal will be held at a later date.

Please, in lieu of flowers please make a donation in her memory to the Discovery Shop in Kalamazoo or Transitions Hospice Care located in Battle Creek

While visiting Kate’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage, MI 49002, (269 344-5600).