Catherine Ann "Kate" Kirkdorffer

Catherine Ann "Kate" Kirkdorffer, 101, of New Paris, died peacefully on Jan. 30, 2026.

She was born on Jan. 18, 1925, in Elkhart, Indiana, where she attended Elkhart High School. On Oct. 20, 1943, she married Everett D. Kirkdorffer. They moved into their family home in New Paris in 1959 and together they lovingly raised three children and put them all through college.

Catherine worked for Johnson Controls Corp. for 28 years, retiring in 1987. She attended and was a devoted member of The Bethany Community Church. Catherine enjoyed sitting on her front porch swing, attending Bible Study, reading books, doing jigsaw puzzles, and baking the most delicious sugar cookies for family and friends. Catherine was a loving wife, parent, grandparent, great-grandparent and friend.

Catherine is survived and will be dearly missed by her son, Richard (Judith) of Saline, Michigan; granddaughter Jennifer Atchison (Eric) of Sanger, Texas; grandson Justin (Cymbre), great-grandchildren Malachi, Gwendolyn and Thaddeus of Terrell, Texas; and son-in-law Dale Kooker of Forney, Texas. She was preceded in death by her husband Everett, her son George Kirkdorffer, and her daughter Janet Kooker.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Bethany Community Church, P.O. Box 52, New Paris, IN 46553.

Everyone is welcome to attend a Celebration of life Service to be held later. Burial will be in the New Paris Cemetery.

Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, is handling arrangements and online condolences may be sent at www.rrefh.com.