Kathryn was born in Lakewood, Ohio to Karl and Helen Schefft, the oldest of six children and only daughter. Kathryn graduated from Concordia Teacher’s College, River Forest and was called to Immanuel Lutheran in Bristol, Connecticut. There she met her future husband, Thomas Petke. They married at St. Paul Lutheran in Lakewood, Ohio in 1965.
Tom and Katie moved to Portland in 1967. They became members of Resurrection Lutheran, where Katie was an integral part of music ministry for 50 years. They were blessed with 5 children. As both a trained educator and an innate teacher, Katie prepared them well for formal education. Throughout her life, Katie nurtured numerous children and shared her love for her Lord as she encouraged others to explore their gifts. She dedicated many hours to service, through teaching, Meals on Wheels, giving piano lessons and volunteering. Interests that brought her joy included church theater, baking, gardening, traveling to visit family and friends, scorekeeping for countless sporting events, bike riding and completing puzzles.
She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years; their 5 children, Mike (Katherine), Carolyn (Matt), Rachel (Shane), Sarah (Chris) and Tim (Megan); 14 grandchildren; and 5 brothers, Walter (Georgia), Karl (Sandy), Rich (Jane), Ed (Bev), Bill (Karen) and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Resurrection Lutheran Church, where a service will be held March 26, 2022 at 1p.m..
Condolences(3) 
Juelette Fadness says
December 26, 2021 at 8:46 pmDear Tom and family, I was so sorry to hear of Katie’s passing. She was such a loving and kind hearted person. I will always be grateful for the musical help she gave my son Barry. Although hers was a life well lived, we will all miss her dearly. Keeping you in our hearts and prayers. Love, Juelette and Barry Fadness
Bill and Karen Schefft says
December 30, 2021 at 2:40 pmWe are thinking of you all and pray you find peace and comfort knowing that Kathy/Mom/Grandma is now at peace with the Lord. Hold on to those precious memories of the lovely lady that she was. We will keep fond memories of Kathy always.
Laurie Bregitzer says
January 6, 2022 at 4:41 pmDear Tom and family,
I was blessed to reunite with my Cleveland Lutheran High School classmate when I moved to Portland in 2008. She was happy to visit and invite me to you home. I will miss her so much and will pray that your family may find peace.
Laurie Bregitzer