Katherine Smith

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our precious Katie (Katherine Ann) Smith, age 32, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center – Neenah, WI. She died in the arms of her mother, surrounded by cousins and family who loved her beyond doubt.  

 Katie was born on December 15, 1993. She fought the battle of her life (Ataxia-Telangiectasia) which forced her to face many challenges due to her diagnosis. She has made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Despite her disability, she never let it define her. Katie was fiercely independent, and traveling was her favorite pastime. Spending time in Connecticut with her fiancé, Rob Smarz, was one of her favorite things to look forward to, among traveling across the states to be with her family in Las Vegas, Chicago, Indiana, Tennessee, Arizona, Northern Michigan, and everywhere in between. She enjoyed riding on the Spyder motorcycle, which was made possible by her cousins’ modifications to accommodate her wheelchair. She would ride with her mom, cousins, and friends. Her spunky personality shined bright, just like her smile. A laugh that could warm anybody's heart, and a hug that would take your breath away. She was an active part of conversation wherever she went. She looked forward to being the “Best Aunt Ever” by spoiling her niece with her shopping addiction, colorful taste, and bling.  

 Katie joins her brother, Tyler Smith, who welcomes her with open arms in heaven. She will be sadly missed by her mother Sheila Smith, her father Michael (Julie) Smith, brother Trevor (Hope Rozelle-Smith) Smith, Grandmother Shyla Smith, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. 

 Funeral Mass for Katie will be held on Saturday, March 7th at 11:00am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (222 E. Fremont St., Appleton) with Father John Kleinschmidt officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Westgor Funeral Home (1140 Appleton Rd., Menasha) from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. Visitation will continue at the church on Saturday from 10:00am until the hour of service.  

 In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established.  

 The family would like to thank ThedaCare at Home and Hospital staff and a very special thank you to Brenda Hostettler for going above and beyond for our girl. 

Katie, we are happy to know you are flying high and chasing butterflies