Age 78 of Inver Grove Heights
Passed away peacefully on July 7, 2021. Preceded in death by parents, Gerald & Faye Eyler; brothers, Gary & Jeff Eyler. Survived by daughter, Deb (Tony) Hapka; grandchildren, Nick, Sam & Sydnie; step-children, Mark (Beckie) Syverson, Patty (Rich) Fitzgerald, Tom Syverson & Doug (Shelly) Syverson. Kay was born in Sparta, Wisconsin and lived in many areas of Wisconsin before moving to Minnesota. She worked at 3M for 38 years in various managerial positions. After retiring from 3M she became the office manager at Bethesda Lutheran Church where she worked for nearly 20 years, while also holding the position of treasurer for her community HOA. Kay was a devoted Nana, mom and stepmom. Her grandchildren were her whole world. She never missed a sporting event, concert or school activity. She was always on the sidelines or in the audience cheering and beaming with pride. Kay loved going out to the softball fields to watch her daughter and friends play many nights and weekends. Over the years Deb’s friends became Kay’s friends, often getting invited to things in lieu of Deb being there. Kay cherished these friendships. Kay was a big Minnesota Twins fan and enjoyed watching them on t.v., but loved even more to go out to the ballpark and enjoy a game with a hot dog and a cold Miller Lite. She also loved basketball, having watched thousands of games coached by her then husband, Arlie, and played by her daughter and her grandchildren. Kay would make sure to follow the Timberwolves closely so that she could talk sports with her grandkids. As described by others, Kay was strong, kind, loving, sassy and fun. A great lady. A real gem. Memorial Service 5 PM Thursday, July 15th, at Bethesda Lutheran Church, 2855 47th St., Inver Grove Heights. Visitation 4-5 PM prior to the service. A Celebration of Kay’s Life will continue from 6:30-9:00 PM at the Croatian Hall, 445 2nd Ave. South St. Paul.