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Kathy Halsan died on Oct. 17, 2025, from an aggressive form of cancer.
Born on June 9, 1952, as Kathryn L. Vangen in Ballard, Washington, she was the daughter of C. Douglas “Doug” Vangen and Betty Ann Vangen (Peshek). Kathy took pride in her family of Czech and Norwegian immigrants, whose legacy of good humor and hardscrabble work was coupled with a dedication to solidarity and trade unionism that coursed through her. Born with a physical disability, the significant adversity she overcame became a cornerstone of her teaching career.
Kathy earned a master’s degree in special education from Western Washington University and was a special education preschool teacher in Centralia for more than 40 years. In her work, she built an innovative and inclusive learning environment for young children that included welcoming teenage students from Centralia High School into her vibrant preschool room to gain a unique perspective as student aides. Her work impacted countless lives and cemented her legacy as “Teacher Kathy” to the many families she served.
Upon retirement, Kathy remained active in the community. She was a member of the Lewis County Democratic Party, attending local events and participating in campaigns. She worked with Lewis County’s AAUW branch to help raise tens of thousands of dollars for girls’ scholarships. Kathy also supported AAUW and Centralia College’s Expanding Your Horizons campaign for young girls pursuing STEAM careers.
Kathy is survived by her husband of 50 years, former state Sen. Stuart A. Halsan, and her two children, Nate and Kirsten, who were at her side as she died. She is also survived by her children’s spouses, Brian and Shannon, and three grandchildren, Logan, Oliver and Kathryn, whom she adored with all her heart. Her extended surviving family includes her sister, Janet, along with nieces, nephews and more.
Kathy will be remembered as a proud grandmother, loving wife, supportive mother, dedicated teacher, fierce community advocate, avid reader and lifelong learner.
While Kathy’s death was sudden and deeply sad, her family takes comfort in knowing she was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Kathy requested no service. Any gifts or donations can be directed to the Lewis County AAUW, P.O. Box 244, Chehalis, WA 98532.
