Katherine was born in Concorde, CA daughter of Virgil L and Patricia A (O’Neil) York. She was united in marriage to Michael DeSmet in 1987. Kathie graduated from Moline High School, Moline Illinois. She worked in the hospitality business since her early teens, helping in her aunt's restaurant. She held management positions with various restaurants and country clubs including Governor’s in Moline, IL. Kathie and her husband opened their own restaurant ”The Bow Witch” in the historical Village of East Davenport, Iowa following Michael's retirement from Deere & Company. They later moved to Marco Island, FL in 2001. Kathie continued in the hospitality business on the Island working for several restaurants including Moran's, Kretch's, and the Yacht Club. She also managed the Marco Goodwill.
Kathie enjoyed life, she enjoyed people. She could light up a room in seconds with that special smile and wit. She was very creative and could make anything which she enjoyed giving to others. She also enjoyed reading, boating, fishing , bingo with her friends, skating, and her pets. She was a champion Ebay seller.
Survivors include her loving husband Michael, Marco Island; Michael's two sons CMD Anthony DeSmet, Orlando, FL and Jeffrey DeSmet, Boston, MA; and five grandchildren. Siblings Bruce (Christine) York, Grundy Center, IA; Brian York, Cave Creek, AZ; Karen Carlson, Phoenix, AZ; Barry (Holly) York, Largo, FL; Kristine (Harold) Long, Moline, IL; Kolleen (Lucio) Rojas, Montgomery, IL; and Bernard (Lilia) York, El Dorado Hills, CA. Preceding her in death were her parents, infant sister Mary York and nephews Ryan Carlson and Daniel Liedtke.
Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Memorial Mass at San Marco Catholic Church, Marco Island on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. Following the mass, everyone is invited to attend a luncheon with entertainment at La Tavola restaurant, 961 Winterberry Dr., Marco Island to celebrate Kathie’s life. Funeral arrangements are being provided by Hodges-Josberger, Marco Island.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18