Kathi Sidney McGaffigan (Lundquist)
November 10, 1954 - January 15, 2025
Katie, a force of nature wrapped in kindness, humor, and creativity, left this world on January 15, 2025, after a courageous nine-month battle with glioblastoma. She exited this life with the same grace and strength with which she lived it, leaving behind a legacy that will forever inspire those who knew and loved her.
Born on November 10, 1954, Katie packed a lifetime of purpose into her 70 years. She raised two children, Alanna and Patrick, who grew up with her as their guiding star, and shared the last 27 years of her life with Bruce, her partner and soulmate. Together, they built a life of love, laughter, and riverside adventures along the St. Croix.
Katie dedicated her entire career to 3M, where she brought her intelligence, creativity, and strong work ethic to everything she did. Her contributions were as impactful as the relationships she built during her years there.
Katie had a knack for turning the ordinary into extraordinary. She could walk into a Woodbury garage sale and emerge with treasures only she could see the potential in. She could design an interior so unique and captivating you'd need to pause and marvel at every detail. While she couldn't parallel park to save her life, no one wore a hat better. She delighted in Fourth of July fireworks, a good book, a well-told movie, Nelson's ice cream, and the soulful rhythm of the song "September," which will forever bring her spirit to life for those who hear it.
Katie was smart, funny-sometimes hilariously so-and fiercely independent. She was a thinker and a doer, a dreamer and a realist, a lover of people and a respecter of boundaries. Her honesty was refreshing, her opinions were well-considered, and her ability to balance what mattered with what didn't was an art form in itself. She sought to understand what she didn't know, valued learning as a lifelong pursuit, and found joy in being herself-a bold, creative, and beautiful soul.
She loved her family with all her heart, and being a grandmother brought her immense pride and joy. Whether it was sharing the serenity of the river, marveling at eagles soaring overhead, or simply spending time together, Katie's family was her center and her joy.
Katie didn't just live her life; she designed it, much like she did her interiors-with intention, creativity, and heart. She tried new things, knew when to let go, and always sought ways to show who she was through her actions and creations. She was a good friend, a thoughtful companion, and a loyal confidante. To know her was to be reminded of the power of kindness, the magic of laughter, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself.
As we say goodbye to Katie, we carry her with us in the lessons she taught, the love she shared, and the countless memories she created. She leaves us better for having known her, and we are forever grateful for the gift of her friendship and love.
Please join us in celebrating Katie's remarkable life on Tuesday, January 28th, at The Loft at Studio J in Stillwater, MN, from 4:30 to 7:30pm. She wanted us to throw a party-let's not let her down!
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the U of M Brain Cancer Research Center.
Katie wants everyone to know that "she's gone to Brigadoon."
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
4:30 - 7:30 pm (Central time)
The Loft at Studio J
Visits: 421
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors