Kathleen Pool Land was born July 11, 1915, in Fairfield, Iowa. She grew up there and graduated from high school at the age of 16. Later, she received a bachelor's degree in music from Lebanon Valley College, Pennsylvania, then moved back to Iowa to live and work in Ottumwa.

On April 15, 1939, she married Emmette Burrell Land. A few years later, they moved to DeKalb, Illinois, where they remained the rest of their lives. 

Kathleen's passion in life was music. She played the pipe organ at First Congregational Church for 46 years and played for many special services, weddings, funerals, and concerts. Music to Kathleen was her expression of her love for God.

For many years Kathleen was employed at Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance Company as Emmette's secretary. She was a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and an enthusiastic supporter of local station WNIU and the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Kathleen was an avid card player and enjoyed her bridge club for many years.

Kathleen was a devoted wife and mother. She attended athletic events, school plays, was an excellent cook, and loved to bake. As her children grew older, Kathleen found herself traveling to visit them. She was grateful for every opportunity to express gratitude and love. 

Following Emmette’s death in 1998, Kathleen and her children established the Emmett B. Land Memorial Scholarship Fund at the DeKalb County Community Foundation as a lasting tribute to the legacy of Emmette. The scholarship benefitted a graduating DeKalb High School student who met the award criteria.

Kathleen Pool Land passed away Wednesday, August 10, 2011. At her children's request, the Fund was renamed to the Emmette and Kathleen Land Memorial Scholarship Fund, honoring both parents. Donations made in Kathleen's memory added to the overall Fund balance and impact. Her legacy lives on through the lives she continues to affect.