Katrinka Sieber

Katrinka Sieber, was born Katrinka VanWagenen, on May 27, 1935, in Madison, Wisconsin. She passed away on August 6, 2023, at the age of 88, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. She is survived by her daughter, Anne Collingwood, Anne's fiancé Paul Tjostem, her son, Hans Sieber, and his spouse, Julie McCrae. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren Sean, Logan, Joey, Nick, and Theo. Katrinka will be fondly remembered by her nephews: Chris, Mark, Matthew, Greg, Jeff, and their families.

Katrinka was preceded in death by her husband, John Sieber, her mother, Hazel Van Wagenen, her father, Howard Van Wagenen, and her brother, Peter Van Wagenen.

Katrinka received her BS degree in Music from the University of Wisconsin and an MA degree in Library Science, also from the University of Wisconsin.  Katrinka married John Sieber in 1960 and they were happily married for 54 years.

Katrinka was dedicated her career as a librarian, leaving a lasting impact in various institutions. She served as a librarian at the Minneapolis Public Library and Luther College Library, and for 15 years as the Head Librarian for Robey Memorial Library in Waukon, Iowa.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Katrinka was an active member of her church community. She worshipped at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah, Iowa, as well as St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Imperial Beach, California, and St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in National City, California.

Katrinka was known for her warm hospitality and her dedication to her faith. She loved all animals, especially her many rescued dogs. Her faithful companion, Ellie will miss her.  She loved spending time with her grandsons. Katrinka was an avid crocheter and crafter. She often spoke of her travels to Egypt where she helped her husband as he worked on the Nag Hammadi Codexes. In retirement, Katrinka was the president of the Imperial Beach women's club for many years, volunteered at the Imperial Beach Library, and was active in the community and her assisted living residence.

Katrinka Sieber will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, dedicated librarian, animal lover, and faithful church member will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to: Red Cloud Indian School, Pine Ridge, SD, or Robey Memorial Library, Waukon, Iowa in her memory.