Kathleen Ann Damrau, born on July 28, 1950, in Breckenridge, MN to Lawrence and Shirlee Kurtz, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, surrounded by family who loved her, in Lakeville, MN. Known affectionately as Kathy, she spent her life bringing joy to those around her through her vibrant personality and unwavering kindness.

Kathy attended Technical High School, graduating in 1968.  She then went on to the St. Cloud Beauty College where she was trained as a beautician.  Kathy was a dedicated beautician and stylist, known for her engaging conversations with clients and her ability to make everyone feel special. Her time working with the elderly at Grace McDowall was particularly fulfilling, as she took great care in understanding their stories and ensuring they felt valued in her presence.

Later on, Kathy attended administrative training at the St. Cloud Technical College and after graduating, she joined the law firm of Neils, Franz and Chirhart.  Kathy made many wonderful friends during her time there and was a very valued member of the firm.

However, family called and Kathy answered.  She moved to Shakopee and then later to Lakeville to be near her daughters and was able to be there to help take care of the grandkids.  They made her life full of sunshine and love.

An avid reader and lover of card games, Kathy also enjoyed playing cribbage and spending time with her family, which was her greatest joy. She had a passion for food, with a particular fondness for Mexican cuisine, burgers, and walleye. Music was another love of hers; she had a lifelong admiration for Ringo Starr of the Beatles and enjoyed the harmonies of Il Divo, Pentatonix, and the timeless voice of Bette Midler.

Kathy was a die-hard Vikings fan, passionately cheering on her team from the comfort of her living room, making sure her thoughts were known during every game. Her favorite place in the world was the Grand Canyon, and she was thrilled to have visited it twice.  She also loved spending time with her daughter(s) at their lake homes.

Kathy married Ralph Schmitt in Jacobs Prairie, MN.  They had three children.  They later divorced.  She married James (Jim) Benson in St. Cloud and after his death, married James (Jim) Damrau in Lakeville, MN.

She leaves behind cherished memories for her family and friends, who will remember her warmth, her laughter, and the love she shared with everyone she met.  Kathy also leaves behind her partner, Bill Heptig who gave wonderful, loving care to Kathy, most especially during her health issues.   Kathy will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her generous spirit and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her.

Kathy is survived by her three children, Kerry (Chris) Flynn of Eagan, Aaron (Shaun) Schmitt and Kelly (Brian) Lassi of Shakopee. Grandchildren, Taylor (Grant) Cao, Morgan Lassi, Samuel Lassi, Avalynn Lassi and Grace Flynn.  Her siblings, Dennis (Lee) Kurtz, Carol (Rich) Feneis, Douglas (Jackie) Kurtz, Karen Kay Hill, Michelle (Jeff) Eikmeier and Connie (Kevin) Matz.  Kathy will be missed by her many nieces and nephews as well.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, older brother Michael Kurtz, infant nephew Jeffrey Kurtz, sister-in-law Debbie Kurtz, and brother-in-law Robert (Bob) Pflepsen.

Memorial Service, Thursday, January 30, 2025, 11:00 am, at White Funeral Home, 20134 Kenwood Trail, Lakeville, MN 55044.

Visitation 1 hour prior.