Kimberly Joy Herzog, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished Nana, and true friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on April 17, 2025. Born on August 3, 1959, in Litchfield, Kim’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, and kindness.
 From her earliest days, Kim was known for her caring heart and her vibrant, joyful spirit. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1977. Her first job was at Dairy Queen, where she found joy in simple pleasures and learned the importance of hard work and service. After high school, Kim briefly attended beauty school, but her heart led her elsewhere – she left to be with the love of her life, Wes. The two eloped in the Twin Cities and were married in 1982, starting their lifelong adventure as high school sweethearts.
 Kim’s greatest happiness was her family. After having five children, she dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom, pouring her love into raising her children and creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. Later in life, she discovered a calling in caring for others, working as a PCA for 14 years and making a difference in the life of Anna Sufka and her family.
 But perhaps the most beautiful part of Kim’s life was the extraordinary bond she shared with her daughter, Stephanie. More than just mother and daughter, they were truly best friends.
 Kim also adored her four boys – Kole, Luke, Matt, and Cameron – as well as her two grandchildren, Paisley and Henry, and her beloved animals, who brought her comfort and happiness throughout her life. She found simple joy in cleaning, cooking, lighting candles, and spending time with her family, always making her house a welcoming place for everyone she loved.
 Kim’s legacy is one of devotion, compassion, and true kindness. She touched the lives of everyone she met, whether as a caregiver, a friend, or the heart of her family. Her memory will live on in the warmth of her home and the love she shared with her children.
 Kim was preceded in passing by her loving parents, Leslie and Alina Rick; her sister, Robin Eischens; her father-in-law, Don Herzog; and her nephew, Kent Trehus.
 She is lovingly survived by her husband, Wes; her children, Kole, Lucas (Kelsie), Matthew, Stephanie (Ben), and Cameron; and her treasured grandchildren, Paisley and Henry. Kim is also survived by her siblings, Steven (Kay), Terry (Wayne), Susan (Dan), and Merridee (Joel); her brothers-in-law, Calvin and Corky; her sisters-in-law, Jeneane, Jayne (Don), Renae, and Kathy; her mother-in-law, Marlene; and many nieces and nephews.
 As we gather to celebrate her life, we remember her radiant smile, her loving spirit, and the laughter she shared with those closest to her. She will be deeply missed, but her love and light remain with us always.
 The celebration of Kim’s life will be held on July 18 at First Lutheran Church in Litchfield with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. and the funeral to follow at 3 p.m.
 Rest in peace, Kimberly Joy Rick Herzog.