Katelyn Ann Weirich

Katelyn Ann Weirich, 10, was welcomed into heaven on May 6th, 2025. She was surrounded by family and showered in love. We are extremely devastated but find peace knowing she is healed, cancer-free and wrapped in the arms of Jesus. Katelyn has taught us so much and impacted so many lives throughout her 10 beautiful years of life. Angels are rejoicing, bells are ringing, and the gates of heaven have opened to welcome Katelyn home where she will live eternal life. We long for the time when we will reunite with Katelyn in Heaven.

Katelyn was born on February 9, 2015, in Charlotte, North Carolina to her loving parents Jeff and Tara Weirich and big sister Kendall. Although born in Charlotte, Katelyn lived in Perrysburg, Ohio and most recently Powell, Ohio.

Katelyn was a magnificent radiant light, full of life and love, with a selfless heart that overflowed with generosity and joy. Her infectious smile and sparkling blue eyes lit up every room she entered. Katelyn had many nicknames and was often called “Winnie” by close family and friends. She was often considered an angel on earth who was called to do the work of God through her humble teachings. Katelyn admired and adored her big sister Kendall. She looked to her for the latest fashion trends, skincare tips and just about everything else. She had such a special love for babies. You could often find her with a baby on her hip, while smiling from ear to ear. She had a passion for hip hop dancing, riding around in her blue golf cart, jumping on the trampoline, and swimming. She adored her best friends, Sydney and Elin and every moment they shared. She also enjoyed spending time with our dear friends Sarah, Albert, Theo, Giorgie, and Reese. Her heart was especially full when she was with her beloved Aunt Lauren and Uncle Jonny and cousins, Madison and Jackson. Katelyn spent countless hours on FaceTime with her Nana and Grandma and loved them both dearly. She treasured her family more than anything in the world. Katelyn loved crafting heartfelt gifts for others which inspired her to create Katelyn’s Kraft’s, an organization she created to provide crafts to children in the hospital who are being treated for pediatric cancer. She loved worshipping Jesus with her whole heart, often singing along to her favorite worship artists, Brandon Lake and Anne Wilson. Her church and school brought her great joy, and she adored being part of both communities. Katelyn had a deep bond with her beloved dog Maddie and was so excited about her new fish, Bubba. She loved her stuffed animals Winnie the Pooh and Sparkles who provided peace and comfort through some of the most challenging times. Her strength, determination, and endurance throughout her life were astounding. Katelyn carried herself with a remarkable confidence that touched everyone she met.

In 2020, Katelyn (5) was diagnosed with Stage 4, High-risk Neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer. Through her 5-year journey, Katelyn underwent countless surgeries, treatments and clinical studies. Katelyn made a lasting impact on nearly everyone she met. It was not uncommon to hear people to say, “there is something special about Katelyn”. She lived her life in accordance with Joshua 1:9, not discouraged but courageous in the face of her hard fight. Through this journey, Katelyn and our entire family made many new connections, strengthened existing relationships and grew immensely in our faith.

Katelyn was honored at Nationwide Children’s Hospital – Columbus Marathon in 2023 where she represented mile 3 as the Mile Champion. Strong Like Katelyn supporters proudly raised almost 10,000 dollars in honor of Katelyn which was donated directly to NCH. She was recognized by Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation and The Dale Jr. Foundation for her instrumental role in ensuring the Butterfly Paws therapy dogs were permitted to visit on hematology/oncology patient floors. Previously, this was not allowed. She demonstrated her advocacy with a handwritten persuasive letter addressed “To those who are in charge” which successfully convinced hospital leadership to allow visitation on the requested floors. Katelyn received the “Superstar Award” in 2024 from the Powell Dance Academy honoring her strength, courage and determination throughout the year. Also, Katelyn was a member of The Ohio State University Student Philanthropy – BuckeyeThon, which provides direct benefit to children being treated for pediatric cancer. Katelyn participated in the fashion show and received special recognition at the dance marathon fundraiser in 2024.

Surviving Katelyn are her parents Jeff and Tara, her sister Kendall, grandparents Michele and David Broomall, Ron and Sheila House and Rich and Bobbie Weirich. Aunt and Uncles Jon (Lauren) Weirich, Sebrina (Kasey) Keeney and Josh Tucker. As well as many dear cousins, great aunts, uncles and friends.

Please join us for Katelyn’s Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, May 17th from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at Adventure Church, 5191 Cornerstone Drive Delaware, OH 43015. Please help us honor Katelyn by wearing her favorite colors pink, purple and/or blue to showcase Katelyn’s bright personality.

If you are unable to attend in person, services will be live streamed on the Adventure Church Facebook Page and Adventure Church YouTube Channel.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, please consider donating to “The Strong Like Katelyn Joy Fund” which will be used to bless others and bring joy to families impacted by pediatric cancer. https://secure.ncfgiving.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0UVx000007aKgwMAE