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Katherine Postelli Obituary
Katherine Postelli, 51, passed away on Jan. 20, 2024, in Lafayette, Colo.
She was born on Aug. 24, 1972, in Benton Harbor. Katherine was a beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend.
Katherine was a hardworking individual who always put her best effort into everything she did. She had a vibrant personality and was a joy to be around. She was known for her dedication and commitment, especially in her studies. She attended Lake Michigan Catholic High School and graduated from the University of Michigan. She earned a master's degree from the University of Hawaii.
In her professional life, Katherine made a significant impact. She worked for The Nature Conservancy in Hawaii and later became the CEO of Wildlands Restoration Volunteers in Colorado. Her passion for nature and environmental conservation was evident in her work.
Outside of her career, Katherine had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She loved kayaking, working out and exploring new places through travel. These activities allowed her to connect with nature and find solace in its beauty.
She is survived by her two daughters: Lucy and Sydney Thompson. She is also survived by her parents: Frank Ronald and Annette Postelli, as well as her siblings: Gina and Mark, and sister-in-law, Jeanie O'Neill. There are also numerous nieces and nephews.
Katherine was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents: Fiore and Cleo Postelli, and her maternal grandparents: Nathan and Helen Coniglio.
Memorial services are pending.
For those who wish to honor her memory, donations can be made to Sarett Nature Center in Benton Harbor or Wildlands Restoration Volunteers, 2100 Collyer St., Longmont, CO.
Katherine will forever be remembered for her hard work, adventurous spirit and love for her family. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Katherine Postelli
Pete Peterson
August 12, 2024
Just by sheer chance did this devastating news of Katherine's passing reach me. She was one of my students at the Audubon Expedition Institute/Lesley U (on the bus). in '92-'93. She brought a positive attitude to every academic task she undertook in our learning community and impacted others by her presence. My sincerest condolences to her family.
Darcie
February 6, 2024
Katherine has been a part of our family for over twenty years. We have wonderful memories that we will cherish and keep close to our hearts. Katherine had the best laugh and the most genuine smile of anyone I´ve known. We shared many conversations over the years and a few tears. She was a very loving and caring mother to my beautiful granddaughters. I will miss her! Love always, Darcie.
Jarren KUIPERS
January 29, 2024
My wife and I overlapped Katherine´s decade living in Cody, WY and we had the opportunity to spend countless hours were her and the girls on casual weekends, holidays, and rafting trips. We also worked together occasionally.
Katherine had an infectious personality and was always engaging. We were always amazed at how she could connect and coordinate with vast numbers of people in meaningful ways. Even five years after her move from WY nearly all our friends are those that we met through her efforts to bring people together.
It was fitting that her most recent career stop was so well targeted to that deeply ingrained inclination and skill. Of course, she was a rock star with TNC Wyoming before that and I assume with TNC Hawaii before that. She made things happen through force of will and relationship. No one could keep up with her pace and passion for wild places.
From what I observed, Katherine lived life on her terms. She was always thinking outside of the box and challenging popular conceptions. She was never a wilting flower when dealing with challenging or intimidating people; something she referred to as her "Italian". She was a friend you could count on for support and honest feedback. I miss her greatly.
Alison Cohan
January 29, 2024
I got to know Kathy through work for The Nature Conservancy in Hawaii. She was such a joy to be around - fun and funny, optimistic and intelligent. She was a lovely human and I'm sure made everyone's lives she touched just a bit brighter.
Condolences and aloha to the family.
Peter Boerma
January 29, 2024
Katherine had a soft spot in her heart for Sarett Nature Center.
Out West, she showed up with her heart and head and things got done. This is a big loss for the environmental community.
She was also very proud of her two daughters.
Vince Dwan
January 28, 2024
So sad to hear of Kathy's passing. I remember her as a happy little girl.
Terry Mcdaniel
January 26, 2024
Kathy was my good friend back in 89. She was and is one of the most beautiful people inside and out thst I have ever met. I am so thankful for my time and friendship with her. Kathy you taught me so much in my life. Your independence, intelligence and capacity for love were extraordinary. You made this earth a more beautiful place by your hard work and dedication doing just that, and by just existing in it. Thank you Kathy for your love and friendship. I will never ever forget you.
-terry
Laura Bell
January 26, 2024
When Katherine walked through my door in 2008 to interview for a job, I knew immediately she was the one! She radiated energy and can-do attitude along with street smarts and a perceptive vision. In the years that followed, I came to love her as a friend. She made me laugh. She created community around her. The world will be a lesser place without her.
Julie Pender
January 25, 2024
Wow. My heart breaks hearing this news. So many memories with Kathy from elementary school on up! Lucky to have had the chance to meet up a few years ago and catch up. My heart goes out to Kathy´s daughters and her family.
Barbara Postelli Abbott
January 25, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Judith
January 25, 2024
Ranse and Judith McKinney. Prayers for the family
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