Katrine Rempe Gutman, affectionately known as “Peek,” 91, of Wheeling, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at Good Shepherd Nursing Home.
Born on October 2, 1934, at Wheeling Hospital, Peek was the daughter of the late William J. Rempe and Katrine O’Brien Rempe. She was a 1952 graduate of Mount de Chantal Visitation Academy and remained a devoted member of St. Michael Parish throughout her life.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, D. Milton Gutman; her sister, Barbara R. McFadden; her brother-in- law, William McFadden; her brother, William Rempe; and her nephew, David Rempe.
Peek is survived by her beloved family, including her son, J. Milton Gutman and his wife, Carolyn; her granddaughters, Sarah G. Brammer and her husband, Keith, and Jennifer E. Gutman; and her treasured great-granddaughters, Chloe Brammer, Mollie Brammer, Julie Brammer, and Emery “Emmy” Brammer. She is also survived by her brother, Michael L. Rempe of Wheeling; her sister-in-law, Jean K. Rempe of Owensboro, Kentucky; her nieces and nephews, Karen Himrod (Harry), Charles McFadden (Patty), Tess Gaudino (Tom), Tim McFadden, Lori Rempe, Doug Rempe (Gina), Mark Rempe, and Carrie Barr (Bill), along with many cherished great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews.
Faith and service were the cornerstones of Peek’s life. She remained active in St. Michael Parish until declining health no longer permitted her attendance. She faithfully served as an Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister, was a past president of the Legion of Mary, and volunteered for many years at the Catholic Charities 18th Street Neighborhood Center delivering meals to members of the community. She also served as past president of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and was a member of the Chemical People Task Force.
Together with her husband, D. Milt, Peek helped found the Youth Foundation of Greater Wheeling, which provided funding for drug and alcohol prevention workshops for area teachers and youth ministers. Together, they were also instrumental in establishing Youth Appreciation Week in the Wheeling area.
Her faith extended well beyond organized ministry. She lived her faith each day, welcoming neighbors into her home for a neighborhood rosary group and forming lifelong friendships through her prayer group. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen and valued, and many who knew her simply described her as ‘a very special lady.’
Peek was happiest when surrounded by her family and found great joy in celebrating each milestone of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Through her unwavering faith, generous spirit, and commitment to serving others, she leaves a lasting legacy of compassion, hospitality, and love. Friends will be received at the Altmeyer Funeral Home, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger Street, Wheeling, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., concluding with a prayer vigil at 7:45 p.m.
A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling. Interment to follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Catholic Charities 18th Street Neighborhood Center, 125 18th Street, Wheeling, WV 26003, or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Online donations may be made at www.tmcfunding.com.
Memories and condolences for Peek’s family may be shared at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com.
