Kori's older sister, Kelly (Konopka) Phillips, posted this comment on Facebook on May 1, 2025.

It is with profound sadness that I share that my little sister, Kori Konopka, passed away peacefully Tuesday [April 29, 2025] morning.

Kori was diagnosed with Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer on 1/14/25 and developed complications after Round 5 of Chemo. Kori truly believed she could beat this cancer. She remained unwaveringly positive and funny and exuded a kindness - impacting all those that she came into contact with.

My sister had such a BIG presence and made it a point to be present in everything she did! Kori had made a life for herself in Milwaukee for the last 15 years or so. She surrounded herself with family, friends, pets, and work that she truly loved with her whole being.

Kori became non-communicative and non-responsive on 4/18 but was breathing on her own. She was moved into hospice where she continued to fight until Tuesday.

Kori’s cancer was aggressive and although strides and advancements have been made with Pancreatic Cancer Research, she only made 105 days from diagnosis. Kori did not want any wake or funeral.

We are processing this grief but we know our lives will never quite be the same. We will find a way to carry on Kori’s legacy of kindness and impact in a way that she would be proud. I love and miss her so much!