Kathryn Lee Michael

Kathryn Michael of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by her family.

She was born on March 28, 1942, to Marie and Manuel Michael in Fort Morgan, Colorado. After graduating from Fort Morgan High School, Kathy moved to Denver, where she began building a life and career of her own. She had a fun-loving personality, a beautiful smile, and a contagious, unmistakable laugh that often trailed off into a long sigh.

On June 8, 1970, she welcomed her daughter, Danielle Michael. While raising her daughter and working as a bookkeeper, Kathy continued her education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Metropolitan State University in May 1983. Completing her degree while balancing work and motherhood as a single mom was one of many examples of her
determination. Kathy was also fortunate to have the loving support of close friends and family as she raised her daughter. Beryl Higgins and her family, including Jack, Brenda, and Ralph, were an important part of their lives, as was her dear friend Mary Lou Drummond. Kathy also remained close to her family, and regular gatherings with her parents, siblings, nieces, and
nephews were an important part of family life throughout the years.

Kathy loved sports and was a devoted Denver Broncos fan. For many years, she held season tickets at Mile High Stadium in the South Stands, where she cheered on the Broncos through
rain, sun, and snow. Her love of sports extended to her family as well. Some of her greatest joy came from watching her daughter compete in sports and, later, cheering from the sidelines at her granddaughter’s softball and volleyball games. She loved being there to watch and support them.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Danielle Michael; her granddaughter, Isla Chermack; her sisters, Barbara Burr and Rosemary Hood; and her brother, James (Jim) Michael, along with
many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Manuel Michael; her sisters, Connie Michael and June Michael; her brother, Ronald Michael; and her dear friend Mary Lou Drummond.

Kathy will be remembered for her generosity and for the way she was always there for the people in her life. She was always willing to help a friend, family member, or coworker who
needed support. Her daughter and granddaughter will especially miss spending time with her —in the stands, sharing holiday meals, enjoying pizza and movie nights, and in the everyday
moments of their lives together.