Katherine Cassel — Rochester

Katherine Cassel (formerly Kay Giese Carroll), of Rochester, peacefully transitioned of natural causes to her true home on Wednesday, July 23, 2014. Katherine is mom to Barbara Carroll and Tom Carroll and cherished grandma (Ahma) to Jesse Carroll and Madeline Carroll. She was also considered family to countless other friends and children that she loved without reserve.

Katherine was born in 1939 and raised along with her sister, Janet (Flink), in Dover. She graduated from Macalester College with a degree in English and was married to James Carroll for over 25 years. The last two decades of her life were dedicated to her own and others' healing and she served as an inspiring mentor to many.

Katherine was a unique and vibrant soul, uplifting to all she came in contact with. She will be remembered by many for her vivid and magical story-telling as well as for her youthful spirit and sparkling humor. Her spiritual work did not end with her life but continues to touch and inspire the many people with whom she is connected.

There will be a celebration of Katherine's life on Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be a picnic potluck on the grounds of Assisi Heights. Please bring a blanket, a dish to share and a favorite story about Katherine.

A memorial fund has been set up for her grandchildren's continued education. Checks can be sent to Wells Fargo P.O. Box 5100, Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5100 attn: Memorial Education Trust Fund Acct. # 3636240115.