Katherine Marie Waters JOHANSON Katherine Johanson was born Nov. 29, 1960 and passed peacefully at home on June 5 at age 48. She is survived by her life partner Nancy Tennison Magee; mother Norma Waters; brothers Mike, Pat (Peggy) and Dave (Melanie) Waters; nieces Jennifer Waters, Christina Tynes and Kaitlyn Waters; nephew Patrick Waters; and many, many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Bob Waters. Katherine was an advocate for the homeless. She loved travel, gardening and her dogs, and the love she had for her partner, family and friends ran deep. Katherine's enthusiastic curiosity and boundless energy showed in her verve for life. Her genuine, unique and loving personality will be hugely missed, as will her beautiful smile. Thanks to Dr. Erin Ellis of Swedish Cancer Institute for her compassionate care. Memorial service to be held Saturday, June 13 at 2:00 p.m. UCC Fauntleroy Church, 9140 California Ave. SW, Seattle. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Katherine Johanson Benevolent Fund, P.O. Box 97050, Seattle, WA 98124-9750.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Liz Petersen
July 6, 2009
Katherine fought this as hard as anyone could have. She was incredibly strong and will always be an inspiration to me. I am at least thankful that she is at peace now. I had the great fortune to know her through her book rep days. I will miss her laugh but will always hear it in my mind. Love to you Nancy, and to Katherine's family.
Sam Hofstedt
June 15, 2009
What a great and wonderful person with a great spirit and sense of humor and compassion. Kathy said some wonderfully comforting words to me at my fathers memorial for which I will be eternally grateful. I wish there were more people in the world like her. She will be so missed, and I offer my deepest sympathies to Nancy and Kathy's family and friends.
Anna Nelson
June 13, 2009
To Katherine's family; my deepest sympathy. I knew Katherine from her days as a book rep. She always had a wonderful smile when she walked into the office. I had the pleasure of her friendship as well. I will miss her.
June 13, 2009
Dear Nancy,I am so very sorry to hear of your loss.Katherine was such a nice person. I always enjoyed our conversations.I could tell she loved her family and her friends very much.Often when I was out in my back patio, I would hear you both laughing with your friends. You both sounded so happy. Nancy not everyone is blessed with such a great love that you two shared.May the memories of your life together give you comfort and strength
during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and her family.
Your neighbor, Kathy Oczkewecz
Jeff VanGilder
June 12, 2009
Katherine brought joy to everyone whose life she touched. She was so into other people. I will miss her smile and laugh. My sympathy to Nancy and to Katherine's family.
Ruth Frickle
June 9, 2009
Katherine was wonderful to work with. When she visited campus we shared stories of growing up, life philosophies, and personal reading recommendations. Her personal journey, including her illness, just kept polishing her spirit to an amazing brightness. I feel lucky to have known her.
Peter Melvoin
June 9, 2009
With her infectious smile, ready laugh, and genuine competence, Katherine was always available to the task.
I will miss her.
Tracy Tucker
June 8, 2009
Kathy's huge presence and hearty laugh will be missed, yet, we all will carry her wonderful gifts of love and spirit in our hearts. We are all blessed to now have an angel looking after us, our beautiful and loving Kathy.
Karen Godfrey
June 8, 2009
Nancy, Norma, and family - am I so sad about the loss of beautiful sweet caring fun-loving Kath - what a huge loss for you, and for all of us. She made her presence in this world and will not be forgotten. I was happy to keep in touch with her during this time, although not in person. I will miss her. Love to you all, Karen
Simone Rico
June 8, 2009
Dear Nancy and all of Katherine's loved ones,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Katherine was a beautiful person who touched the lives of everyone she met, and she will be missed by many. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
All my best,
Simone
Maria
June 8, 2009
Dear Nancy,
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I feel very blessed and honor to have met Katherine this last January. I wish I could of spent more time getting to know her. She will always have a special place in my heart. My prayers are with you. God Bless
CHEQUITA WILLIAMS-COX
June 7, 2009
I am so hurt. I just found out today that Kathy passed away June 5th. I had been thinking about her for awhile and I am angry that I did not email her sooner. I will miss by friend and know that she is free of pain now. She is an angel waiting for her wings to spread in heaven and below. I will miss my friend, Kathy.
Penny Scordas
June 7, 2009
Dear Nancy and Katherine's family,
I am so sorry for your loss. She was such an amazing human being. She had such a large presence wherever she went she left her smile and laughter behind. Take care of yourselves. Sincerely, Penny
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more