Kate Bartel Kromann (nee Germain)

Marie and Susan, I didn't know Kate as well as I know the two of you but the Bartel family means a lot to me and I know Kate was the center of your universe. What an amazing human being,daughter,granddaughter,wife and mom she was. This is an unexpected and unbelievable tragedy for all of you especially her babies! I hope all these stories and posts will be saved for them so they can read all about her to go along with all you will share with them. I am so sorry for the loss of a best friend to you all. A light has gone out and the world is a lot darker but her light will never shine brighter. Love you all

Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the upcoming days. Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are at the loss of Kate. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with all of you.

I have wonderful memories of that sweet sweet Kate back in the 80s. Deepest sympathy and much love to Kate's family and friends.

Our prayers and condolences for the untimely loss of Kate. May her memory and deeds be a blessing for her family, friends and colleagues.

I am so sorry to hear of your huge and unexpected loss, Susan. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kromann family.

Such a beautiful example of Christlike love. I imagine God just wanted her home in Heaven with Him. May her legacy live on in all the lives she touched. Praying for you all.

Susan and I have been dear friends since we were babes. I remember being so excited when Kate was born on my birthday. It made us Valentine birthdays together. It was such a joy to watch Kate grow up in Columbia. She had such love for life even as a young child. Then, as a teacher, what a thrill it was to have Kate as a high Student at Rock Bridge High School. It seems she was involved in everything and was a member of the award winning Bruin Girls Dance team; so bright creative and caring. All along the way I was amazed at Kate's faith in God and Jesus and what she did for others. This became even more a part of who she was an adult. Her faith, her family, her work echoed who she soul. It has been fun to see her love for Ryan and her kids on Facebook. What a mother she was. We laughed, sometimes cried with her as she enjoyed her kids and shared with us. Ellie and Sam, your Mother was her best when she was being your Mom. Susan and Ryan, remember these few short years you all had together and keep those memories alive for those dear children. My heart and love goes out to the entire family. Through my tears, Kate's laugh and smile and her spirit, have been with me all week. I know her faith will keep you strong.

We will miss Kate so much. She was our only niece, and we loved watching her grow up from an infant into a wonderful young woman, wife, mom, and friend to all she met. She was joyful, funny, intelligent, creative, and loved life. Kate will always be in our hearts.

Our hearts grieve with Kate's family. Prayers and deepest sympathy. Jon & Kris Nowotny

Bob & Bruce, Thank you for allowing Kate to be a part of our lives for all these years. We will miss her with all out hearts. You have our deepest sympathy & love. Dave & Amy McNally

Kate's spirit will shine on forever. She was a rare child, so special and bright. She grew even brighter, it seems, in her adulthood.