Kathrina West

September 22, 1945 – May 6, 2026

Kathrina K. West always wanted to be a star, and now she is. Kathrina, affectionately known as Kathie, 80, of Ashburn, Virginia, took her final bow on May 6, 2026.

Born on September 22, 1945, in Watertown, New York, Kathie was the beloved daughter of the late David and Jane Knowlton. She lived her life "coloring outside the lines," meeting every day with a smile and the charismatic flair of a natural actress.

For 21 years, Kathie was a devoted Air Force wife to her late husband, John. Following his service, she transitioned her passion for performance into a meaningful career as a high school theatre teacher. She inspired countless students at Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA, and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, VA, where she directed the fall plays and spring musicals.

Even in retirement, the "acting bug" never left her. Kathie joined the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) in Fairfax, where she founded the "OLLI Players" for seniors. She also remained active in her local community as a member of the Potomac Green Playmakers, finally returning to the stage herself.

Beyond the theatre, Kathie’s greatest love was her family and her Shipoo puppy, Frankie, followed closely by all the family animals. Kathie found peace at the beach, usually with a good book, a collection of shells, and a perfect tan. A master storyteller, she delighted family and friends with her dramatics and wit. To Kathie, no day was complete without the 5 o’clock cocktail hour—a tradition she shared with her late husband, John, involving a good bourbon and tonic.

Kathie is reunited in peace with her husband, Retired Lt. Col. John F. West III, and her parents. She is survived by her two daughters, Laura Rahn (Don Rahn) of Purcellville, Virginia, and Patricia (Patty) Bernardo (Ev Bernardo) of Bristow, Virginia; and her two beloved granddaughters Carleigh Rahn of Fredericksburg, Virginia and Kaitlyn (Katie) Rahn of Arlington, Virginia. Kathie is also survived by her sister, Lee Parker (Appleton, Wisconsin) and her brother, David Knowlton (Lady Lake, Florida).

Kathie’s Celebration of Life will be held May 20, 2026 at Demaine life Celebration Center in Sterling. Visitation will begin at 11:00am, with services immediately following. In honor of Kathie’s courageous journey, the family welcomes flowers or memorial donate to https://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/donate/