Kathleen "Kathi" DeFrancis

1944 - 2018

Denver native, musician and event producer Kathleen Lenora "Kathi" DeFrancis who contributed to Denver's music and arts scene for over 50 years died surrounded by family March 15 at Denver Hospice. She was 74. A singer-songwriter and pianist, DeFrancis recorded with many artists and produced three albums of original music. As a founding member of Colorado's legendary group The Mother Folkers she added her engaging stage presence, stellar piano playing and bluesy-sweet voice to "MoFo's" recordings and sold out performances for more than 25 years. DeFrancis trained as a classical pianist and began her career in the folk arts in the '60s touring the U.S. She hosted for Denver's KRMA public television, scored and arranged for TV and film and was a founding member of Paratakki Oree and Foan Family Circus troupes of music, magic, juggling and comedy. Later her Annual 39th Birthday "Folk Fusion" concerts were popular at Swallow Hill among Denver area venues. In arts management and event production DeFrancis worked creatively with The Denver Children's Museum, Downtown Denver, Inc., Larimer Square Associates, and as co-founder of Creative Resource Network talent agency where she booked and promoted comedy and musical talent nationwide. DeFrancis is survived by two daughters Jahnavi Stenflo (Nathan Jantz) of Longmont, Angie DeFrancis Cox (Josh Crow) of Aurora, beloved grandchildren Kalindi, Malachai and Phoenix, Brothers Bill (Maggie), David (Lauri), and Mark of Denver, sister Gayle (David) of Santa Cruz CA, nieces, nephews and hundreds of dear friends. DeFrancis' devotion to family, friends and fellow artists, her soulful music, good humor and loving nature touched and inspired all who knew her. Her giving, vivacious spirit will be deeply missed by family, friends and fans. Kathi DeFrancis' Life Celebration will be May 6, 2018 at The Mercury Café, Denver, Noon to 4:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to help the family pay DeFrancis' medical expenses at jahdevi@gmail.com on www.paypal.com Find more information on the Kathi DeFrancis tribute Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/groups/209571826444799/