Gloria Kater

Gloria May (Lewis) Kater, age 90, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026 surrounded by family at NMC Health. Gloria was born on May 19, 1935, in Bushong, Kansas to Minnie Wauneta (Reaka) Lewis and Fred Albert Lewis. Gloria attended Bushong school and graduated from Emporia teacher college. She married Donald C Kater on August 10 1957 in Newton Ks. They raised their three children and built a life rooted in faith, family and community on the farm.

Gloria was an active member of First United Church of Christ. Her teaching career spanned Roosevelt Elementary School Candy Cane Corner, and as a substitute teacher in the Newton Schools. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, and working beside Don on the farm. They were members of Circle 8 Square Dance Club and Rural Life. She was a 4H leader, member of EHU Red Hat Society, and an active member of First United Church of Christ.

Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Don, her son Greg, a brother William, two infant siblings, and her parents. She is survived by daughters Martha (Dennis) Disberger and LaDonna (Greg) Schmidt.

Visitation will be at Petersen funeral home on Friday February 6 from 5-8p.m. with family present from 6:30-8p.m.

Funeral service will be at Petersen Funeral Home on Saturday February 7 at 10a.m. followed by burial at Greenwood cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Presbyterian Manor and Caring Hands Humane Society.