What's Happening?
Kathleen (Kathy) Ann Viereg, a dedicated family doctor and community figure, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. Born on December 11, 1949, in Madison, Wisconsin, she was the only child
of Donald Viereg and Rita Johnson. Kathy graduated as salutatorian from East High School in Madison in 1967 and completed her BS in zoology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1970. She fulfilled her dream of becoming a doctor by graduating from UW-Madison Medical School in 1974. Kathy married Robert Ljungquist in 1975 and settled in Cheshire, Connecticut, where she opened her medical practice and served the community for 40 years. She was involved in medical missions to the Dominican Republic and educated medical students as a Clinical Assistant Professor at UConn. Kathy was also the president of the CT Academy of Family Physicians. Her life was celebrated for her love of cycling, traveling, and community service.
Why It's Important?
Kathleen Viereg's contributions to medicine and her community highlight the impact of dedicated healthcare professionals in local settings. Her work in Cheshire, Connecticut, not only provided essential medical services but also fostered a sense of community and support. Her involvement in medical missions and education underscores the importance of healthcare professionals in global health initiatives and the training of future medical practitioners. Kathy's leadership roles, such as her presidency at the CT Academy of Family Physicians, reflect her influence in shaping family medicine practices and policies. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for current and future generations of healthcare providers, emphasizing the value of community engagement and lifelong learning in the medical field.
What's Next?
A celebration of life ceremony for Kathleen Viereg is scheduled for June 27th at the First Congregational Church in Cheshire, Connecticut. In her memory, donations can be made to the Kathleen Viereg Memorial Scholarship Fund in Family Medicine, the American Civil Liberties Union, and National Public Radio. These contributions will continue to support causes that were important to Kathy, ensuring her legacy of service and advocacy endures. The community she served and her family will likely continue to honor her memory through these charitable efforts and by upholding the values she championed throughout her life.
