With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathryn Louise Waker of South Lyon Michigan, on December 11, 2024, at the age of 74 years old.

Kathryn was born in Pasadena California on January 10, 1950, to the late Robert and Thelma Shipley.

Kathryn grew up in Detroit Michigan, she married Dan in June 1968 when he returned from Vietnam. They raised their family in Farmington Michigan where Kathy made their house a home, always welcoming everyone with open arms and usually cookies.

Their love of camping took them on adventures all over the country and once they reached retirement age, they continued traveling the country in their fifth wheel, eventually settling in Bradenton Florida where they made a lifelong group of friends. After a 16-year courageous battle with cancer, she has surrendered to it.

Known for her unwavering kindness, infectious smile, and boundless love, Kathy leaves behind a legacy of warmth that touched the lives of all who knew her. She was a pillar of our family, always there with a listening ear, a comforting hug, and her famous baked goods. She raised the all-American family and was the glue that held it together. Kathy loved her boys very much and would do anything for them. She loved her grandchildren even more! She loved spending time with all of them, watching them grow. The one person she loved the most in this world was her husband Dan.  They had the true fairytale marriage.

Beloved wife and best friend of Daniel F. Waker for almost 57 years. Devoted and adoring mother of Timothy (Anne Marie) Waker and Michael (Andrea) Waker, proud grandmother of Travis, Jacob, Nathan, Lily, Jack, Katie, Alex, Mitch, Dana, and Owen. Kathryn had numerous friends who will deeply miss her but none more than her best friend Pat McDougal who she loved like the sister she never had.

A cemetery service for Dan and Kathryn will be held Friday, April 11, 11 am, Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI.

Immediately following the cemetery service everyone is invited to continue celebrating Kathryn and Dan's lives at Fenton Winery and Brewery Taproom. The celebration will begin at 12 pm.  Please use this link for more information about the venue. https://www.fentonbrewery.com/

A word from Daniel-

To my loving wife,

I knew on our first date that I was going to marry you. You were so kind and understanding. You helped me through my hard times with the war. You showed me how to love and to give again. We made a GREAT life together; we had two great sons, and they gave us seven grand kids. I have never loved someone as much as I love you.

My Sweetheart, I will miss you, but I will see you on the other side.

Your Loving Tiger XOXO