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Woodlawn Funeral Home Obituaries

Kathleen Marie Wright , Age: 56
July 01, 1965 - June 30, 2022

Kathleen Marie Wright, devoted wife of Ronald Robert Wright and mother to son Nicholas Hayner (Christina) and daughter Jaqueline Brunell (Ryan), passed away peacefully in her home during the early morning hours of June 30th, 2022.  Kat began her earthly journey on July 1st, 1965. Born in Germany to Tom and Barbara Knudtzon, Kathy was greatly loved by her parents and five siblings, Tom Knudtzon of Anchorage, Alaska (Kerry), Kristine Wilson of Elk Grove, California (Glenn), Jeff Knudtzon of Reno, Nevada (Lori), Eric Knudtzon of Sacramento, California, and Zachary Knudtzon of Greenhaven, California. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who dearly loved her.

Growing up as an Army kid, Kathy quickly learned how to adapt. She made friends easily with every relocation. When her father was stationed in Vietnam, the family would return to “home base,” the house in Lacey, Washington that Kathy eventually bought from her mother, and Kat absolutely loved getting to spend the rest of her life in her childhood home with the love of her life, Ron. Down the street from Mountain View Elementary School, Kathy and her friends and siblings spent many summer afternoons playing on the school’s playground, replete with teeter totters and swings. 

Kathy was a sweet and happy child. She had life long friendships and brought joy to the lives she touched. First and foremost, her bestie Kimberly Coley and Kat shared an amazing bond of friendship above measure; childhood friends Vikki Murray and Val Land rounded out the core four sharing decades of adventures full of laughter & much love. Kathy connected with and grew close to her second cousin, Heather Balderson, who blessed Ron and Kathy with an epic bucket list balloon ride. One also can't forget the numerous gatherings Kat shared with the NORTH THURSTON Class of 83 clan, & the giggles shared with the girls on their visits with Kat over the last few weeks.

Kat worked nearly three decades at various State of Washington departments, ending with a cherished stint at Labor and Industries. She made numerous friends and helped thousands of people over the course of her career, and Kat cherished those times in her life.  Kathy retired in 2020 due to her cancer diagnosis. This allowed her and her husband Ron to check many adventures off her bucket list, including attending her daughter Jakki’s September 2021 wedding to husband Ryan Brunell in Haverhill, Massachusetts.

With an appreciation for all living things both flora and fauna, Kathy was instrumental in bringing Urban Farming to Lacey, Washington. She attended meetings and presented the case that her chickens would be “pets on two legs” and that “no, she would NOT be selling any eggs to the public.” From Nugget to Happy Feet, Kathy and Ron’s chickens were beloved family pets who happened to also contribute to breakfast.

Kat had a wide array of interests, from participating in the annual Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire to attending local festivals, outdoor concerts and even being part of the Procession of Species Parade. Kathy loved to plan adventures and explore interesting destinations. She also enjoyed both the arts and theater. Of her many gifts and talents, one that stands out is her talent for cake decorating. From realistic sushi cake to hedgehogs to flower cupcakes, Kathy created so many amazing creations and flavor profiles. However, her  biggest passion lay in her devotion to her Christian faith.

Kathy had a serving spirit. She was always available to offer a helping hand, an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, and her wisdom and advice, even if that was something you may not have been ready to hear. Her spiritual advice was always spot on though. She loved unconditionally, and that is a true gift she gave to us all. Kathy’s Church family was extremely important to her. While attending Olympia Metro Church, Kathy could be found running the sound or volunteering for a variety of roles and events. She participated in the Superbowl Chili Cook Off, Christmas Island, Women’s Ministry, and, of course, flag and dance worship, where she felt closest to God. At her second Church home, Faith Assembly True Grace, Kathy was a greeter, a perfect fit where her amazing smile and warm and loving spirit welcomed all who attended.

 

Kathy Wright will be sorely missed, but we also are grateful that she has been healed and now resides among the angels.

Condolences

Lisa Holstine July 09, 2022

She was my beautiful soul sister. Lacey , Washington

I’m so glad you’re out of pain and moved thru all the limitations of this world. I’ll see you in time. Until then you will forever be in my heart. 💜♥️❤️

David Broadway July 09, 2022

Cousin Sandpoint , Idaho

She was a bright star here with us for a short time . Her grace a nd generosity will always be remembered along with her beautiful smile .

Cheryl Sparkuhl July 16, 2022

Friend Lacey , Washington

I’m grateful that I saw Kat several weeks back and that we had a moment together to talk and more importantly to hug one another. I will miss her. Thankful her body is free of pain. Grateful to know she’s with Jesus & one day I’ll see her again.

Kelly & Jeff Murray July 18, 2022

Friend at True Grace Church Tucson , Arizona

Kat's optimistic outlook and her adventures with Ron were so inspirational ❤️ Kat exuded hope and love everyday, no matter how she felt, and my life was blessed to have had her in it. ❤️ We love you Ron 🌵 Jeff and Kelly


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