Kathleen Aria Machtan

Machtan, Kathleen 1948-2026 Kathleen (Kathy) Machtan of Minnetonka, MN passed away on August 20th, surrounded by family following a courageous battle with brain cancer. She was a devoted wife to Ronaldo for 51 ½ years, and loving mother to Katie and Michael. She was born on September 19th, 1948, in Chicago, IL to parents Geil and Arline Morton. She was raised in Lake Zurich, IL and attended University of WI- Stout earning a bachelor's degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and Psychology. While attending school she met her husband Ron Machtan, marrying in 1975. They lived in Wausau, WI for 10 years where their children were born, moving to Minnetonka, MN in 1985. Kathy chose to leave her career to stay at home raising her children until they started middle school. She then worked for Macy's as a makeup artist and perfume model for 21 years where she developed lifelong friendships. Throughout her life she loved traveling with her husband and dear friends, and her passion was finding unusual antiques that she somehow managed to wrangle through customs with her charm and wit. She was an exceptional cook and enjoyed making elaborate dinners and hosting for her family and friends. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her family, especially "spoiling" her grandchildren. Kathy had a signature look of red nails, red lipstick and vintage jewelry. She was funny, loved to laugh and had a naughty sense of humor. Kathy was a classy woman and was known for her phrase: "Shoot the Horse!" instead of cursing (if she could help it). She was preceded in death by her parents Geil and Arline Morton. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Geraline Morton and Robin Fritz. She is survived by her adoring husband of 51 ½ years Ronaldo Machtan, children Katie (Rob) Benner and Michael (Roxanne) Machtan, and grandchildren Maggie and Charlie Benner and Maxwell Machtan. She is also survived by her sisters Sharon Rochford and Pamela Fritz along with many extended family members. The family would like to thank her medical professionals, especially the hospice teams at Park Nicollet Hospice and Little Hospice Home in Edina. These wonderfully caring people helped her navigate her last days with dignity and peace. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Little Hospice of Edina, MN. A memorial service will be held on Friday August 28th at Washburn-McReavy Hopkins Funeral Chapel, 1400 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN. Visitation at 10AM, service at 11AM.

Kathleen Aria Machtan

September 19, 1948 - August 20, 2026

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