Kathy A. Traber

69 years old, of Ormond Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025. Born on September 8, 1955, Kathy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose warmth, strength, and love left an indelible mark on everyone in her life.

Kathy was the cherished wife of David Traber for 38 wonderful years. Together, they owned and operated a catering and food service management company, sharing their passion for food and hospitality. In their retirement, they embarked on a new journey, traveling the country and selling strudel, a venture that brought them closer together and added a touch of sweetness to the lives of everyone they met. She was an amazing cook, known for her creativity and flavor-packed dishes, pouring love into every meal.

Kathy was the proud mother of five children - Erin (Bill) Wilcox, Emily (Rob) McEvoy, Greg (Penny) Traber, Michael (Melissa) Traber, and Scott Traber - and a doting grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt. Kathy is also survived by her former husband, Denny Springmann, who remained a good friend. She was a spectacular wife, and a loving mother who fiercely loved and cared for her family. Kathy’s bond with her family was one of a kind, and she also adored her fur babies, who were always part of her heart.

Kathy is also survived by her beloved sister, Sue (Jim) Hampton.Their bond was one of a kind, created through green thumbs, tropical locales, and bushels of crabs spread across newspaper tabletops.

Kathy was small but mighty—fun, feisty, and full of life. She had a vibrant personality that filled every room, and her infectious laugh could brighten anyone’s day. Kathy was as smart as a whip, and her quick wit and intelligence made every conversation a joy. She was also a lover of fishing, spending hours by the water, and relaxing by the pool, where she could enjoy the sunshine and tranquility. Kathy found joy in the thrill of NASCAR and was known to cheer on her favorite drivers with enthusiasm. She also loved painting, expressing herself with vibrant colors and creativity. Whether cooking, gardening, or painting, Kathy lived life with passion, always creating beautiful moments for herself and those she loved. She had a deep connection to the beach and loved the rhythms of Jimmy Buffett’s music, which captured her easygoing spirit.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Ditty Ayers, and her aunt and uncle, Nar and Don Steel. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, strength, and a zest for life that will continue to inspire her family and friends.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local Animal Shelter or the American Horticultural Society.