**Obituary for Katherine Louise Garringer** 

Katherine “Kathy” Garringer, née Carter, passed peacefully on December 19, 2024, in Woodbury, Minnesota, at the age of 86. Born on September 3, 1938, in Osage, Iowa, Kathy lived a life rich in love, dedication, and community. A proud union member and a dedicated employee at EcoWater from 1976 until her retirement in 2000, Kathy was known for her exceptional work ethic, achieving several years of perfect attendance. Her professional life was a testament to her loyalty and commitment—traits that also defined her personal life. Kathy was a woman of strong character and independence. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, as a loving wife to her husband Bill, a cherished mother to her daughter Debbie and her husband Mike, and a proud grandmother to Amanda and her husband Len Souren, Kevin, and Kyle. Kathy's legacy extends lovingly to her great-grandson, Liam. Though her career and family life kept her busy, Kathy always found time for her interests. She enjoyed the camaraderie of bingo nights, the excitement of shopping trips, and the sport of bowling in her younger years. A lover of country music, Kathy's heart found joy in its melodies. She was also a member of the Newport Lutheran Church, where her presence on Saturday afternoons will be sorely missed. Her life was grounded by values learned from her parents, Arthur and Elizabeth Carter, and shared with her siblings, Lawrence, Rose, Billy, Sarah, and Wesley. A private burial of her ashes will be held at a later date.

 A celebration of Kathy's life will be held on January 23, 2025, at Newport Lutheran Church, located at 900 15th St, Newport, MN 55055. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon afterward. Here, family and friends will come together to honor a life that touched so many. We invite all who knew Kathy to join us in remembering a remarkable woman whose legacy of strength, devotion, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. Her absence leaves a void, yet her memory remains a cherished bond, guiding us with the love and laughter she shared.