Katherine A. "Kathy" Freel, 59, of Granger, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 6, 2023, at her home. She was born on August 18, 1964, in Concord, CA to the late Alton Wayne Carmon and Barbara June (Dutey) Carmon.

Kathy is survived by her daughters, Miranoctis (Quintin Bartylla) Freel and Stephanie Rhiannon (Robert Doan) Freel; brother, Michael Duncan; mother-in-law, Sandy Podelwitz Carmon; nephew and niece William and Mallory; sister-in-law, Suzette Bartylla; best friend of 38 years, Lisa Nussel; and feline companion, Isis, along with her other beloved fur-babies. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Cremation was chosen and will take place at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorial Donations may be given directly to Kathy's daughters, to help alleviate funeral expenses.

Kathy was an independent, free spirited, and loving mother, sister, and friend. She worked as a deburrer for over a decade and was a member of the United Auto Workers Union. Kathy was a very talented seamstress who would make intricate and gorgeous costumes for her daughters. She also enjoyed creating jewelry and would make beautifully unique pieces.

Kathy had a hard life, but loved the world deeply and fiercely in spite of its flaws. She loved the peace and beauty of nature, especially sunny beaches, verdant forests, and the glimmering night sky of the countryside. She professed to prefer animals to people, but still showed her love of humanity through constant generosity and unyielding compassion–if she had anything to give, she did, whether strangers or loved ones, humans or animals. She found the magic of the world best captured in fantasy works, from books and movies to renaissance faires. Kathy enjoyed the occasional Dean Koontz novel and would watch action and horror movies with her daughters, quick to critique the films on their flaws or accomplishments. She also enjoyed playing cards, board games, and puzzles of all kinds.

Kathy's generosity, fierce fully loving heart, and uplifting spirit will be greatly missed by her loving family and many friends.

"Once in a million years a lady like her rises," - Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac, Rhiannon