Kathleen Gratzek

Kathleen Ann Mullin Gratzek, 93, a beloved friend, mother, and grandmother, died peacefully on July 10, 2025. Born in North Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the first child of Gerald Mullin and Ruth Kammerer Mullin, and sister to Gerald, James, and Sheila. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, John Gratzek.

Kathleen was kindhearted, gregarious, and fun-loving. She was also deeply determined, always striving to get things done and create positive change. While much of her life was devoted to nurturing and supporting her family, she was equally committed to strengthening the Athens community through her work as a social worker, and as a community leader and dedicated volunteer. She touched the lives of many through her compassion and action.

Kathleen graduated from St. Margaret’s Academy High School in Minneapolis, then earned her undergraduate degree from Rosary College in Chicago. She later received a Master of Social Work from the University of Georgia. For 19 years, she served as Education Coordinator at the Northeast Georgia Mental Health Center.

Kathleen was an active member of both the UGA Catholic Center and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where she was the first woman elected to the Parish Council and to serve as its President. She gave generously of her time and talents to the Athens community, serving on the boards of numerous organizations including the first Athens Head Start Advisory Board; Community Coordinated Child Care Inc. (a Model Cities program); Community Connection; Family Counseling Services; the Athens Tutorial Board; the Mental Health Association; the Athens Community Council on Aging; and Learning in Retirement. She was also involved with the Jeanette Rankin Foundation, the Clarke County Democratic Committee, and volunteered as an usher at the UGA Performing Arts Center. Giving back to the Athens community she loved was a lifelong commitment.

She loved spending time with her family and friends, swimming at Legion Pool and the YMCA, playing tennis, meeting with her book club, exploring history and politics, traveling, and maintaining strong connections to her Minnesota home.

She is survived by her brother, James Mullin; her daughters, Ann Njaka (Chima) and Jean Colville (David); her sons, Thomas Gratzek (Elizabeth) and James Gratzek (Megan); and seven grandchildren: John Gratzek (Renee), Alexander Gratzek (Khey), Katie Colville (Catherine), Paige Colville, Taylor Njaka, Kara Ruth Gratzek, and Chloe Gratzek.

A memorial Mass will be offered at the UGA Catholic Center (1344 South Lumpkin Street) on Saturday, August 9 at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, West, Watkinsville, GA is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com