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Kathryn "Kate" Caracappa

1990 - 2024

BORN

1990

DIED

2024

About

Georgia State University

Kathryn Caracappa Obituary

CARACAPPA, Kathryn

Melee "Kate"

Kathryn "Kate" Melee Caracappa passed away suddenly on November 11, 2024, just three days prior to her 34th birthday.

Kate was born in Atlanta, Georgia on November 14, 1990, to Glenn and Jennifer Caracappa. She was a small baby, but it was very soon clear that she was a determined and decisive individual.

When Kate was 21 months old, her family welcomed her brother, Connor, into the fold. Kate and Connor meant the world to each other, spent countless hours playing together and shared an amicable and happy relationship. Tragically, Connor suffered a cerebral aneurysm and passed away in March 2003, at just 10 years old. The family was devastated, but somehow managed to bond together, draw strength from one another, and find happiness again. This loss shaped Kate's life and molded her into the empathetic and understanding young woman she became. It was also during this difficult time that Kate developed friendships that lasted her lifetime. When Kate loved, she loved deeply, she was all in. She was a fierce ally, a loyal friend, and a trusted confidant.

Kate always enjoyed traveling and, fortunately, traveled quite a bit. As a child, there were family trips around the states. After high school, Kate and her mom walked the Grand Canyon from rim to rim and the three Caracappa's went to Canada and the Caribbean. Kate then combined travel with her education. During her undergraduate studies at Georgia State University, Kate went to Germany with a group of cohorts, completed an internship at NYU (met another lifelong friend), and then traveled to Africa to help complete a study with the psychology department. She graduated GSU, worked several years in counseling, got her licensure, and became a professional licensed therapist. Kate then opened her own successful therapy practice and spent her days helping clients navigate life's challenges. She also continued her travels and visited France, Spain, Greece and Malta.

In October of 2023, Kate married Joseph Sloan Ruzicka. Kate and Sloan dated briefly in high school and stayed distantly in touch via social media until they decided to meet again in person and caught up. Needless to say, this encounter was the beginning of a beautiful connection. The last few years of Kate's life were some of her happiest and she embraced her new husband and their marriage with the same enthusiasm and passion that was always her way. Kate and Sloan traveled together to the Dominican Republic, Barcelona, Majorca, Rome, Sicily, Cabo San Lucas and the beach (Kate's favorite). She was very excited about the life they had begun and looked happily toward their future.

Kate will be remembered by her family and friends as a genuine, spirited, loving, intelligent, and funny young woman. We will be forever grateful for the time we got to spend with our beautiful daughter even as we miss her every day.

Kate was preceded in death by her brother, Connor; and her cousin, Jordan Fleps, with whom she was particularly close. She is survived by her husband, J. Sloan Ruzicka; her parents, Glenn and Jennifer Caracappa; her grandmothers, Julie Bakke and Holly Jordan; aunts and uncles, many beloved cousins, friends whom she deeply loved and considered family, and her three fur babies that miss her terribly.

Kate cared deeply about the welfare of others - be they human, animal or planet. In her memory, please be generous with people - all have suffered pain and loss, be willing to work hard for what you want, finish the project you've started, and love with all your heart.

In lieu of flowers, please give to your favorite environmental charity.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Kate's honor. The time and location to be determined as soon as possible.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Dec. 8, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathryn Caracappa

25 Entries

Sloan Ruzicka

June 2, 2025

My sweet angel,

Words cannot express how much I love you and miss you. Although the world has become dark and dim, it is far darker and dimmer without you here. The world has lost one of the best and most quality human beings I have had the pleasure to be around. We will all miss your compassion, empathy, sympathy, and love. Missing you is an absolute understatement, and there are so many things I wish I could tell you and talk to you about. You truly made the world a better place, and me a better man as well. There are no words to express the gratitude I have for getting to meet you, and you allowing me in your life as a partner and husband. For that, I will always be eternally grateful. I am so sorry our time we cut short Kate. We had huge plans for our lives, and the future as well. I truly hope you are in a better place; happy, smiling, and spending time with your brother. It truly is not the same without you here. With all the love in our hearts - Bean, Luna, Winston, and Sloan.

Carey

February 15, 2025

This is beyond heartbreaking. I'm so very sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person. I wanted to let you know that she changed my life as my therapist, helping me resolve long-held issues. She also helped my brother during his mental health crisis. Her time here on earth was obviously much too short, but her impact will be long lasting. I wish you peace and joyful memories.

The Giles Family

Planted Trees

Allison Groseclose

December 30, 2024

No friendship is as pure and true as those formed in childhood - It´s impossible to sum up 25 years of friendship, especially with someone as special as Kate. We loved each other through so many versions of ourselves and cheered one another on through it all-even though there were many questionable decisions that were made, and some even more questionable fashion choices along the way. From 5th grade through middle school, we were a dynamic duo and essentially melded into one person-there was no Allison without Kate and vice versa . We then spent most of our time together in adulthood discussing the past and laughing at our former selves. We were together through all of our hardest times in life, as well as our happiest, and no matter how long we went without seeing each other, I never wondered where our friendship stood.

Kate was genuine, empathetic, honest, confident, loyal, and witty-and all of the things that make up an ideal best friend. I´ll forever be grateful for the friend who became like family to me in 5th grade. Although I´ll cherish the countless memories, 25 years will never be long enough

Justin Wezik

December 27, 2024

I´m so thankful I was able to travel down to Atlanta this past September and spend time with my cousin Kate. She truly was a special person that I am going to miss so much. There are so many great characteristics that made her who she was. One of my favorites will always be her innate ability to connect with someone and make them feel understood. She had such a sense of fun, humor, and adventure that was unparalleled by anyone. There many great thoughts and memories I have with her that I will think of often to find comfort in. She truly was the best cousin and friend anyone could ever ask for.

The Rivoli Family

December 26, 2024

We are all deeply saddened to hear of the loss of beautiful Kate. Please know that our thoughts, prayers and love are with you all at this difficult time.
Denise and Sal Acerra and
The Entire Rivoli Family

Evan W.

December 25, 2024

I´ve been thinking a lot about my cousin Kate today. The last time we were all together was this past April, gathering to watch the eclipse in honor of our uncle, who had passed just a few months earlier. I will forever cherish the memories of Kate and all the joy she brought to our family gatherings. She was loved by many and is missed by all.

Lisa Caracappa Wezi

December 18, 2024

Sometimes it´s difficult to find the words to express what the heart feels. How does one process a beautiful life transitioning so soon so young. Beautiful Kate my niece, so full of life with her infectious smile and persona. Always a joy to be in the company of. After reading so many of the posts, there was clearly another facet to her many gifts. The gift of healing. So many have addressed how helpful she was to very difficult situations she helped those to navigate through with compassion, love, insight and wisdom. Her love of life, people and animals were always clearly evident. She has touched all of us all in many and different ways that
now are the gifts we hold dear in our hearts remembering that her example can be ours. Yes, precious souls such as Kate and Connor are from above but not without a beautiful mixture of both Jennifer and Glenn also sprinkled in. We are all forever changed by this home going. And while it may not come at once they both would want us to love and share of our best to those that cross our paths, to live life fully the way they did. Kate, Connor I look forward to the time our souls reunite. Aunt Lisa

Brad & Sarah

Planted Trees

Paul Coutu

December 9, 2024

So Sorry to hear this. Out deepest condolences to your family.
Paul & Carolyn Coutu

Jack Freeman

December 8, 2024

I am at a loss for words. This is certainly not how I expected things to turn out. I have the best memories of Kate... and Connor... and Jordan... I´ll miss Kate. I often go back in my memory and think of the game we played in Grandma and Grandpa´s garage, "The Dark Game" where we´d all turn out the lights and beat each other up in the dark. Or make forts out of the cushions from the couch and chairs in the living room. Or Kate´s "Glowphenite" discovery. Or how she would repeat my name "Jackie Jackie Jackie" over and over again to annoy me with that big mischievous grin on her face. So, sooo many good memories. Kate was a large part of some of the best times of my life back when everyone was alive and together and life was so much brighter and more simple and she will be missed very much.

Sloane Freeman

December 8, 2024

Growing up I always admired my older cousin Kate. As my only female cousin, I was drawn to her kindness and her caring personality, along with her beauty. I was quite a bit younger than Kate and often found myself watching her with admiration. I remember thinking her tattoos (especially the dragonfly tattoo) were so cool and the way she could captivate a room full of people with her energy and humor was so impressive. She made us laugh hard and often, and her love for her family was extremely evident. I am heartbroken for my Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Glenn, and Sloan. Kate was surrounded by people who brought her joy, comfort, and so much love. It is impossible to comprehend the pain they are undergoing now. Family gatherings will never be the same without the joy brought forth by my cousins, but I feel extremely lucky to have known Kate and have grown up having her to look up to. I love my Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Glenn more than they know. My heart goes out to them during this time.

Lawrence Booker

December 8, 2024

Over the past few years, Kathryn has been a steady and constant source of compassion and peace. As my therapist, she helped lead me through some of my most challenging life events and very quickly became a trusted confidant. She constantly reminded me of how great humanity can be if we choose to embrace each other and ourselves.

I'm so shocked and sad to hear of her sudden passing. She is missed terribly. My deepest and most sincere condolences to her husband, parents, family, and friends.

Kane

December 8, 2024

Kate was my beautiful, spirited cousin who I have looked up to from a very young age. She was such an incredible, determined person and she made a big impact on me over the years. I will always remember the many songs and dances she taught me to perform for our families, the mischievous ideas she had for us to get into together, and the constant fun she brought with her no matter what we were doing together. As we got older, she was still the person I couldn't control a fit of the giggles with no matter where we were. She was also someone that brought me immediate comfort through the toughest of times. At the memorial for our cousin, Jordan, I was naturally drawn to Kate's side and through the tears, I found some solace from just her presence alone. A little over a year later, it does not feel like it should be possible that Kate is no longer with us as well. The many, many joyful (as well as sad) memories my cousins, siblings, and I shared throughout our childhood and into adulthood bonded us in ways that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. My heart breaks for my Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Glenn who are two of the very best people I know. They have had to endure pain that nobody should ever have to experience. Sending all my love to them and Sloan during this extremely difficult time.

Elle A

December 7, 2024

Kathryn was my therapist, and I´m deeply saddened to hear of her passing. She guided me through significant life changes, but her kindness and generosity went far beyond the duties of her role.

I´ll never forget one time when she took the time to read something I had written and needed a second opinion on. She did this outside of work hours, and I know it must have taken her a while. I never got the chance to tell her how much that meant to me, but in that moment, it truly meant the world.

My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and to everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

Jill Freeman

December 7, 2024

Cody Chapman

December 6, 2024

I was incredibly fortunate to know Kate for the past two years and was devastated to learn of her sudden passing. I am heartbroken beyond words for her family and friends. She was a truly wonderful person and I cannot imagine the depth of your loss.

I hope in the difficult days and weeks ahead you find comfort in learning about the profoundly positive impact she made in her client´s lives. She was a gifted therapist that radiated empathy, warmth, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of her clients. She was patient in listening, thoughtful in offering advice, and had a wonderfully warm presence in her sessions. I am incredibly grateful for the work we did together.

By sheer luck, at the end of one of our last sessions I shared my gratitude to her for our work together. I am grateful for that opportunity, but will forever wish that I had been able to give her the heartfelt thanks she deserved for the work we did together.

To her husband, parents, family and friends, I thank you for sharing a wonderful person with the world. My sincerest condolences for the loss of your beloved daughter, wife, family member and friend.

Pooja

December 6, 2024

I am deeply saddened by Kathryn´s suddenly passing away. I have lost a compassionate and caring therapist who was also a wonderful human being. Even though I come from a different culture, she held space for me and my trauma. Kathryn helped me heal and move forward through very difficult situations in life. I will be forever grateful that she made such a huge impact in my life. My condolences to the family. Dear Kathryn, I will always remember how you helped me park the car during our first appointment when I came running into the office not knowing how to and you said everything will be okay.

Jill Freeman

December 6, 2024

The world is a little less beautiful today without our Katie-bird. I honestly cannot believe we are back here to give tribute and share our love for another Caracappa child.

My heart breaks for my sister and brother-in-law who have now lost both of their precious children suddenly and shatteringly.

Our hearts are broken by the loss of our sweet Kate. Spirited from the start, Kate was full of energy, light, laughter, and love. An effervescent young woman with a bubbly laugh, radiant smile, and lively sparkle in her beautiful deep brown eyes. Kate was a compassionate, kind-hearted soul who loved animals-especially her own three fur babies, and looked forward to a future full of promise with her new husband. She has left a gaping hole in the lives of all of us who love her dearly.

May her parents and husband find some comfort in memories of happier times and know that all of us share in their profound grief.

Florian Harr

December 6, 2024

With deep sadness and profound gratitude, I bid farewell to an extraordinary therapist and wonderful human being. During our therapy sessions together, I experienced her remarkable gift of creating a space where genuine understanding flourished. She had the rare ability to meet me exactly where I was, engaging in honest dialogues that led to new insights even when our perspectives differed. Her authentic way of connecting and discussing made me feel truly understood - a rare and precious gift.

She combined professional excellence with genuine warmth, and our conversations, including those about our shared love of dogs, reflected her wonderful ability to be both a skilled therapist and a deeply authentic person. The positive changes in my life, from renewed friendships to my journey into parenthood, stand as a testament to her remarkable impact. I am forever grateful that she was able to meet my son in our final session together - a precious moment that beautifully concluded our therapeutic journey.

While her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, the wisdom she shared will continue to resonate.

In quiet remembrance and deep appreciation,
Florian

Kristen Hendrix

December 6, 2024

For as long as I can remember, Kate has always been my younger sister, Allison's, best friend. They were a dynamic duo and a "ride or die" set of friends with an immensely special bond. I admittedly didn't always pay them a ton of attention when we were kids, but I recall them always being up to some sort of silly shenanigans (e.g. making music videos, acting out skits, or dressing up in odd costumes LOL). I'm sure that I never told them this, but I admired the way that they both "danced to the beat of their own drum(s)" and didn't seem to care what other people thought of them. Allison and Kate both luckily carried this trait on into adulthood and were unapologetically true to themselves at all times.
Kate and I ended up choosing the same profession as adults, and we both went to graduate school to become Licensed Professional Counselors. I found myself taking career advice from her at times, and I was incredibly impressed with the thriving and successful practice that she had built. Ironically, days before she passed I thought to myself, "I might take on a few more clients in the new year. Maybe I'll reach out to Kate to see if she has any referrals to send my way."
Her untimely passing is inconceivable and unfair beyond belief. Kate's beautiful, wise, funny, bold, loyal presence will be sorely missed here on Earth by all who knew and loved her. But I have no doubt that her strong-willed, spunky spirit will live on forever. Keep sending signs, Kate! And may you rest in peace, love, and happiness with your sweet brother, Connor. You both will never be forgotten! <3

Julie Fleps

December 6, 2024

The obituary describes our Kate so well, she is deeply mourned and missed. I am stunned speechless by her incomprehensible passing.

A memory from our childrens´ childhood is of walking through woods on the way to the beach and discovering mysterious, glowing bioluminescence on rotting wood. Kate quickly dubbed it "glowfinite" which seemed the perfect clever name for this magical discovery, so very Kate! I know that her glow is not finite, but infinite....

Ann Marie Kelly

December 5, 2024

I will always remember Kate as a kindhearted, inquisitive, and happy third grader at Our Lady of the Assumption School. It was a joy to interact with Kate everyday and I have very fond memories of our time together at OLA.
Ann Marie Kelly - teacher/ teacher aide from 1995 to present

Holly Washington

December 4, 2024

Kate was my next door neighbor, a loving and caring young lady with a heart of gold. It is with a heavy heart that I say "was." The first Christmas of Covid she showed up at my door with a gift certificate to Publix, a sanitary kit with masks, hand sanitizer, etc. So thoughtful, I miss her so much. Every time I look over in her back yard, I'm reminded of her tireless energy beautifying her yard with her husband. We shared a love for red birds and would send each other pictures of them in our yards reminding each other, "someone in heaven is visiting us." Sloan, Mom and Dad, please know that I'm sending sincere, heartfelt condolences and keeping you in prayer for peace beyond understanding.

Nicole Morado

December 4, 2024

I can almost perfectly remember the moment Kate and I became good friends. We were walking on our street, and it was probably the third or fourth time we played together. I feel like Dustin and Connor were around, maybe skateboarding, and we were tagging along. Our conversation built up and we got onto the idea of a neighborhood newsletter. We got so excited coming up with the plan and I loved how easy it was talking to her and getting to the point of feeling close enough to laugh a lot. And I just remember how good it felt to be so comfortable and happy to keep playing together when we made plans to work on the project. It was like, "okay, I'm in, it's official. We are friends now." I'm so lucky to have her as my lifelong best friend and will always have her close to me while missing her everyday.

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