Kathryn Mary Cruze

Kathryn Mary Cruze passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. She was 71. Kathryn attended Fort Hunt High School in Alexandria, Virginia, the University of Virginia (Phi Beta Kappa), and the University of Virginia School of Law. She was a practicing attorney for over 30 years, becoming a partner in the prominent New York City law firm Thacher, Proffitt and Wood. She spent her remaining years overlooking the Potomac River in Old Town, Alexandria, hosting many family gatherings and visiting friends.

Known by all for her razor sharp wit, Kathryn had a passion for travel worldwide, was a competitive Scrabble player, and tackled the Sunday New York Times Crossword Puzzle every weekend. Kathryn was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, wife, and friend.

She was preceded in death by her mother Yvonne Ducat Cruze, father Jack Donald Cruze, and sister Bonnie Jean. She is survived by her brother Greg Cruze (Claudia), former husband and remaining close friend Charles Dietzgen, her goddaughter Kathryn Adams, and 4 nieces and nephews: Heidi Pearson (Roger), Jared Cruze, Erin Granzow (Danny), and Jean Paul Rivero Cruze.

She will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace, and be reunited with her mother, father, sister, and lifelong best friend, Julie Rakes, who passed in September 2022.

Contributions may be made in Kathryn’s name to the American Cancer Society.