Roll Call Tribute

Katherine Michelle "Kat" Werner 

November 17, 1983 - October 17, 2024 

"In Loving Memory of Katie, Katherine, Kat, Kaia, November 17, 1983 - October 17, 2024. "

I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you." These are the words Kaia left for her family.

Born in Plano, Texas, and raised in Richardson, Texas, Katherine lived a life defined by her spirit of adventure and her unyielding curiosity for the world. She attended Richland Elementary and graduated from Lutheran High North in Houston before earning her degree from Texas A&M University.

Kat was a true adventurer. She spent four winters teaching ski school in Vail, Colorado, and hiked the entire Appalachian Trail with her beloved rescue dog, Springer. Her travels took her across the globe-teaching yoga in Bali, venturing on an expedition to Antarctica, and exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes. She was also a "mate" on a sailboat in Key West, where she shared her love of the Florida environment with visitors, leading them on snorkeling and kayaking excursions.

"Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast." -Alice in Wonderland. Kat was fearless in embracing new experiences. She worked "crew" at Burning Man twice and shared unforgettable moments with her family-hiking the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and spending an adventure-filled week in Nicaragua.

Kind, intelligent, and beautiful, Kat was also a gifted writer. Yet, like many creative souls, she faced her own battles. She struggled with depression, and the isolation of the pandemic deepened those challenges. Despite moments of joy and attempts to rise above, the weight of her struggles became too heavy. Katherine's journey was one of immense love, beauty, and adventure. Her family takes comfort in knowing that her soul is now at peace.

"I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you." A healing prayer for all who mourn her.

Kaia is survived by her mother, Patty Owens and husband, Tom Owens, father Dennis Werner and wife, Karen Love Werner, brother Brad Werner and wife Melissa and many adoring uncles, aunts and cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 11:00 am at University Park United Methodist church.