Katherine Ann Knake

Katherine Ann Colley Knake, born December 2, 1944, joined her Heavenly Father's embrace on January 5, 2026, surrounded by the love she spent her whole life giving so freely. Known to most as Kathy, but most proudly as "Nana," she was a woman whose presence filled every room - with laughter, stubbornness, imagination, and a hug that could reset your whole nervous system.

Kathy was the devoted mother of Deborah Stanley and Shelli Dennis, and the proud grandmother of Haley Robishaw, Chandlar (Timothy) Rush, and Jade (Cody) Barnes. She adored her great‑grandchildren - Peyton, Lucas, Trenton, Benjamin, Havana, Hunter, and Chase - each of whom she loved "lots," in her signature way. Of all the roles she held in her life, her favorite title was "Nana."

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, her sister Janet Engler, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and "adopted" family members who claimed her as their own.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Ruth Hawkins, and her brother‑in‑law Ray Engler.

Kathy spent her entire life helping others. She was a nurse through and through - devoted, skilled, and fiercely committed to providing the best care possible. Over the years she trained countless nurses, many of whom became her closest friends. Their lunches, reunions, and get‑togethers were some of her greatest joys, and they held a very special place in her heart. Her compassion, humor, and steady presence shaped not only her patients' lives, but generations of caregivers who carry her lessons forward.

Kathy was deeply proud of her faith and carried it with her every day of her life. She welcomed the moment she would return home to the Lord, and she instilled that same faith, hope, and trust in God within her family. Her belief was steady, comforting, and woven into the way she loved, cared, and showed up for others.

Kathy lived with a spark that never dimmed. She loved gambling with the enthusiasm of someone who was sure she'd win - and often did. At the card table, especially during rummy, she was a legendary cheater, and somehow you still loved losing to her. She nurtured imagination in her children and grandchildren, teaching them to see the world with curiosity, humor, and a little mischief. Her smile was constant, her hugs were tight, and her love was loud, honest, and unconditional.

Her parting words to nearly everyone she met were simple and true: "Love you lots." That legacy of love is what she leaves behind - woven into every person who was lucky enough to be held by her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to hospice nurses Jessica and Brigit for their compassion, guidance, and gentle care during Nana's final days.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Kathy's life will be held on January 31, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 PM at the Alanson Community Center, with a ceremony beginning at 2:00 PM.

Guests are encouraged to wear bright colors or Alice in Wonderland-inspired attire, kept casual - a reflection of the whimsy, warmth, and imagination she brought into the world.

Please leave your personal memories and comments for the family in the guestbook below.