Katherine Frances Michael, Age 88, released herself from this life and stepped into the next on October 25th, 2016. Her son Warren and daughter Tammy spent her last hours with her as she passed gracefully and without pain.

Katherine is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Pauline and Harold Peterson, niece and nephew, Dena and Don, and their beloved spouses and families; brother Thomas Courtright and wife Marie, and Tom's sons Bob and Jim, their children and grandchildren; Margaret and Mike Dooley, their children Michelle and Shawn, and grandchildren, Lauren and Chase. Katherine's niece, Kay Leddy and her husband Michael frequently shared their home and their heart with Katherine. When she was no longer mobile, Kay and Katherine's Pauline were consistent visitors at her care facility, and kept her focused on getting the most out of life up until the very end.

Katherine is also survived by her daughter Tamera and her loving husband Jeff Gelman. Both have been a consistent source of help and assistance throughout the years. Tamera has been her mother's constant friend and colleague, and Jeff has provided consistent good counsel. Both stepped forward over the years to provide care at times of ill health and major transitions. Her son, Warren, and daughter-in-law, Mary, and their children, Amir and Mallory, provided a deep sense of joy for her. Warren has been her primary care taker during the last few months of her life, and they have shared this meaningful time joyfully with one another. Her children and grandchildren will feel her loss deeply in the current moment but particularly at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Although separated by years and time, nephews Bob and Jim Courtright were deeply valued. Her great niece, Mary Tom, wrote a poignant letter just weeks prior to Katherine's death that meant so very much to her. Close family members include Lee Davis, Judy, Jackie, Kim and Karen Bottoms, the Changaris Family, members of the Michael and Scott families. Katherine's Florida 'sister roomie', Dink Almond, Terri and Al and Dennis have been an extraordinary source of support.

Importantly and most poignantly to her children and family was a friendship that became love with William Drewes. In her last years they laughed, dined and traveled together. Recently they shared a life commitment to one another as partners. The doting care he constantly displayed for her is, and will always be, profoundly appreciated by her children and loved ones.

To the most amazing staff (especially the B wing gang) at Countryside, and our dear new friends at hospice, there are no words for our family's gratitude. Our mom's care at Countryside Lakes was nothing short of competent and supportive at every turn. The kindness of the individual staff members overwhelmed us. We are humbled by your continuing kindness. Thanking you individually is impossible in this space, but we hope to do so face to face and heart to heart.

Ardis, Delores, Midge and Bob, Eileen and Walt, and Cel - your friendship was such a meaningful part of Katherine's last year at Countryside. Thank you so very much.

Citing those who have preceded her in death will be foregone. She wanted us all to love our lives by looking forward to tomorrow and treating one another gently and with love.

Services will be held on Friday November 4, 2016 at 5:00 PM, with a gathering of family and friends from 3:00 PM till the time of the service, at the Lohman Funeral Home 1201 Dunlawton Ave. Port Orange.

Condolences may be shared at lohmanfuneralhomes.com