Kate (Kathleen) Lynn Rae | Obituary

Kate (Kathleen) Lynn Rae, 72, beloved sister, aunt, and daughter, passed away in Bellingham, WA, August 22, 2023, with loved ones by her side. She was born in Kirkland, WA, growing up the youngest of five siblings on the family’s farm like acreage on Rose Hill. She was fondly called Kathy by family and friends in her youth, becoming Kate as a young adult. She worked for a while at one of the first food co-op’s to be established in the area and as a trained hair stylist as well. She retired in 2016 from the Bellevue School District after a 30-year career working as the Transportation Planning Analyst and Systems Administrator for the BSD Transportation Department. There she made many friends and often spoke of her enjoyment of yearly training retreats with colleagues in Pasco, WA. After retiring, Kate moved to Bellingham, WA to be near family where she created a warm home and enjoyed her vibrant garden and art studio, and frequent gatherings around the backyard fire with loved ones. Throughout her life, Kate’s most meaningful joys were her love for family and friends, her artistic creativity, growing flowers, vegetables, and some of the best tomatoes around, not to mention her child-like awe of snow and Christmas. Kate was an amazing gardener, artist, cook and baker, a loving daughter, sister, and friend. Her laugh was infectious, and her eyes twinkled with merriment, endearing her to those who knew her. Kate is deeply missed, survived by her sister, Bonnie Hoover (Don) and brother Ken Rae (Ramona); preceded in death by parents Ella May (Munn) and Francis Harry Rae, brothers, F. Douglas Rae (Jan) and Robert Rae (Mary Maki); survived also by 9 nieces and nephews; numerous grand and great grand nieces and nephews; Kate’s dedication to family connection will live on through all.