Katie Hoertkorn

Katie was such a tough, determined, and vivacious person so it seems impossible to believe she is gone.

Katie was a special person. She was always gracious, kind, warm, had an infectious smile that lit up the room, and had a devilish sense of humor. She and I worked closely together when we were both on Ross Town Council. She was much harder working and more diligent than me. She would dig at an issue and really make sure she mastered it. She was the person that I shared the most in common with and felt we were kindred spirits in trying to do right by the Town and help improve its processes. Katie continued in the same banister she stepped down and monitored the latest developments and fought for the issues of concern to her within the Town, even though she had much greater priorities in dealing with her own health. I personally took a back seat and left it to others, but Katie was admiring her persistence and continued right up until her passing.

Katie was a great and generous friend, who gave great parties and was always the perfect hostess. She was the most tenacious person I ever met, and was immeasurably and rightly proud of her family. We will miss her dearly.

I met Katie about 2000 when she was at Wineshopper.com and I was at Silicon Valley Bank. Initially, I was completely intimidated by Katie's intellect, self-assurance and competence. I was beyond thrilled when she made it clear that she wanted to develop a friendship with me. I felt it was the highest compliment that someone of her quality -- as a professional, a leader, a woman of strength and, most importantly, of kindness and compassion -- enjoyed my company. And being Katie, she soon made me feel totally at ease with her, enjoying her warmth and humor and the love she radiated to all her friends. As life would have it, we didn't see each other that often in more recent years, but especially after I learned of her illness, I thought of her often and when I did see her, I was impressed by her courage and positive outlook. I am certain all of Katie's impressive qualities helped sustain her for the past decade since her diagnosis, but most importantly, she had such loving care from Rich and her devoted daughters and extended family -- I can only imagine the magnitude of the loss everyone is feeling without her. My deepest sympathy to all of those who loved Katie. She left her mark on all of us, and all of us are better for having known her. May her memory be a blessing.

My sister Joann and I met Mrs. Katie Schumacher n/k/a Mrs. Hoertkorn in 1974 when we joined the King's Crown yearbook staff at Rufus King High School. As sophomore students, we initially performed a variety of administrative tasks to support the upper-class team members responsible for preparing the annual yearbook.
Joann and I were both creative individuals, but we were willing to learn and took on additional yearbook tasks. Mrs. Hoertkorn took a special interest in us. As a result, we were given special reporting and layout design assignments to work on of increasing responsibility. Because Mrs. Hoertkorn saw our creativity and potential, by our junior year, Mrs. Hoertkorn had mentored and prepared us to assume the roles of Layout Editor (Joann) and Copy Editor (Barbara). During our senior year, we continued in our Layout and Copy Editors role; in addition to, serving as Co-Editors for the yearbook.
Working on our high school yearbook, under the guidance of Mrs. Hoertkorn, was a MASTERCLASS in the true sense of the word! Not only did we enhance our written communication skills, we learned how to manage a project, delegate, and set priorities which paved the way to our success in college.
It was a privilege and an honor for Joann and I to have Mrs. Hoertkorn in our lives during our high school years. Especially, when you're trying to figure out what you're good at, trying hard to maintain your focus and avoid the typical high school distractions while approaching your future with confidence. Mrs. Hoertkorn played a HUGE role in supporting, preparing, and inspiring us to attend college!

Joann and I want to extend our condolences to Mrs. Hoertkorn's family and friends. We recently loss our mother after an extended illness, so we know what you are going through. Nothing can take away your memories of Mrs. Hoertkorn. She will be forever in your hearts!

The Henry Sisters (Barbara & Joann)

Oh god MA this was crushing to see this early morning. Your mom faced many year of suffering with an incredible courage and resilience . Her bravery and determination were an inspiration - i will never be even HALF the woman she was. Even through her struggles, she showed a spirit that will not be forgotten.
I so wish I could be there - a tea party- how apt to celebrate her life. I am telling you to listen to Silent Noon by Ralph von Williams -i know she would have loved it. read poetry ! ah poetry! we shared it as a love—what is so rare as a day in June, right, Katie? What more to say. Courage to you all for the coming days and weeks.

My heart goes out to all of Katie’s family. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
When I was diagnosed with a very rare and aggressive cancer, I shared the diagnosis with my friend, Mary Ann, and she immediately said that I must contact her Mother. I wish so much that I had been able to know, in person, the remarkable Katie. But I am so deeply grateful for the time she gave me with phone calls and texts, while i was fighting for my life.
She was integral in my decision to ultimately go to MSK, which was definitely the right place for me.
I am eternally grateful for that. Even though she was facing so many of her own health challenges, she always took time to listen to me and to reach out to offer support. She was so incredibly giving and full of grace..and had a wealth of knowledge, which she freely shared. I’ll never it. I’ll never forget her.
Thank you, Katie. Rest in peace.

Katie and I met when I was a young manager at JICase in Racine, WI and she was a go-getter sales rep for DHL. We forged business solutions that were unthinkable at the time as leaders let two (supposedly) novice “girls” test ground-breaking, global programs with much success. Ever since those days in the 1980’s, it has been and forever will be my honor and pleasure to have known, worked with and enjoyed Katie’s friendship.

The days traveling the world; talking over tea in her living room until she was ready to sleep with a pillow on her lap as I kept talking into the wee hours; discussing complex business issues; bragging on our children and grandchildren; comparing notes on life’s learnings and experiences, it was always total joy right to her too-early departure.

No better friend, nor more lovely person with all the attributes already described by many, Katie remains an inspiration from the 1980’s through her fight to stay with us as long as her body would allow.

Beyond those early years, what a blessing to work with her at New Vine Logistics, and even a short time with CroMetrics staying connected to family and all she holds dear.

I, too, will miss Saturday’s gathering due to out of state travel and send my deepest condolences to Rich, Mary Ann and Sarah and the entire family and large fan club. We all are better for knowing Katie.

Celebrating her life and making her proud as the future unfolds. Love you Katie.

Katie and I started our DHL careers on this day in 1984, she in Milwaukee, I believe, and me in Phoenix, both inexperienced in outside sales. We didn’t meet until she came to visit our mutual customers, Honeywell and Motorola, but she was already on an arc exceeding mine as a national account manager. She was so poised and professional and my dream was to be like her. I held her in awe as she climbed upward in the company, while raising and loving her beautiful daughters and I treasured any time I got to spend with her. I feel lucky to have been in her orbit. I will miss her terribly, as we all will, but she will always be a beacon in my heart as a life well-lived. There will never be another like her.

Katie and I met on our first day of our Freshman year at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. We were two women in a class with 50 men for Calculus 101. We found strength in our new friendship. We then pledged the same sorority. Since my family lived close to the edge of the university, Katie would join me in my bedroom to study, learn to speak French and decide our futures. Nothing would have forecasted Katie's amazing life. Our friendship was family based. We both became close to each other's parents. Our children were the same ages which led to many fun stories and exchanges of parenting ideas. I moved away from Milwaukee with my husband and children which meant we were not in touch as much. We rekindled our friendship about 15 years ago. When we spoke, it was as if we never had been apart. Our focus continued to be family and faith. During our last Face Time conversation a few days before she passed, she reassured me that her faith was strong and she was at peace. Her concern and love was to calm me. This was who Katie was; always aware of how she might make someone else's life better.
She drew like souls to her. Prayers for her are unending.

I was lucky to have Katie as my first ever female boss when I first entered Corporate American transferring from DHL Middle East (Saudi and Iran during Gulf War 1). Katie managed the banking team for Americas region along with her other extensive responsibilities. She loved Lutece restaurant in NYC. She made me eat sweetbreads! . We didn’t like the Jean George new restaurant another time and so we politely got up from the table and went back to Lutece.! Always determined ! My mom passed in the west of Ireland where I grew up in Nov 2024. Katie among all the lovely messages I received is the one that helped me with getting over my grief. It was as only Katie can do .. succinct insightful and kind. God speed to Katie.

Katie was my little sister Melissa's Godmother, one of my mother's best friends for life, and a huge part of our childhood lives. She was the most beautiful woman I knew (besides my beloved mother of course!), the absolutely best cook who made the most scrumptious treats at the holidays (and all year round), and was always ready with her gorgeous smile, big hug, and genuine interest in my life. Her family was a part of our family, and her daughters were like cousins. Sarah and I still have a relationship today which I am so grateful for. Our families had and continue to have a "heart connection", a true Gift from God. As an adult, Katie and I connected through our Faith, and became very close. The first time I ever remember asking for a Miracle was in the Marian Chapel at my home church in Asheville, after Katie's cancer diagnosis. I didn't think myself worthy to ask of the Gift, but I found the courage to beg Our Blessed Mother's intercession to save Katie's life. I know that my prayers joined hundreds of others, and in His Infinite Goodness and for His Glory, our prayers were answered favorably, and we were blessed by Katie's life for another decade. It truly was a Miracle. After this experience, I became devoted to Katie's cause.
I was overjoyed to discover that Katie and I shared a passion for praying Novenas, and over the years prayed many of them together. We lived on two different Coasts, but I felt as close to her as being just down the street. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to me- a reminder to be slow to anger and quick to kindness, a propensity to trust and be courageous, and to always maintain a genuine appreciation for the life God has given me- no matter what. She is the epitome of Redemptive Suffering and ultimately Surrendering to His Plan. Her strength, courage, grace and most of all love...it will go on forever. I will continue to look forward to the day I see her welcoming smile in the halls of Heaven, and hear her voice, and her laughter, as I, with God's Grace, enter my everlasting home with Our Lord. Eternal Rest Grant unto them, O Lord, and let Perpetual Light shine upon them. And may the souls of the Faithful Departed, and all those who have died in the Mercy of God, Rest in Peace. Amen.

I met Katie when she was a freshman at UWM. We were in the same sorority and we were roommates with 2 other women. She was a bridesmaid in my wedding. She also was the Godmother of my younger daughter, Melissa, and I am the Godmother of her younger daughter, Mary Ann. We both stayed home to raise our children who were the same ages. We talked on the phone almost every day while we were doing our household chores. We got together for birthdays, holidays and a lot of other occasions. We were in a Gourmet Cooking Club together with two other couples. Everyone tried to be as good a cook as Katie, but I never felt I measured up. She was the best. Katie’s the one who started me “having tea”, which I still do almost every day. I wanted to be just like her. I have so many memories which I will always cherish. I haven’t seen her much in recent years, but we always have kept in close touch. I well always have her in my heart and never forget the loving person she was.

First, my deepest, heart felt condolences to Rich, Sarah, Mary Ann, Phil and Charles and other family members.

Katie was the first friend I made when we were freshman at UW-Milwaukee. Going to college in our hometown meant we got to know each other’s parents and siblings. There can be no illusions between friends when you go back that far.

Katie was sophisticated, smart and beautiful inside and out. We lost touch after she moved from Wisconsin but by some miracle reconnected years ago. I followed her cancer journey with true amazement. I told her many times that God must love her so very much to keep her on this earth for so long. Her faith and a devoted husband sustained her through it all. Along with her family and friends who loved her so. She will be missed.

Katie and I worked together at WineShopper.com. Her sweet, petite, and beautiful nature belied her invincible strength and off-the-charts smarts. A stylish and refined force, she approached every pursuit—even her battle with cancer—with unbounded energy and enthusiasm. I never saw her without a smile on her face and a wink in her eye.

Katie was like a fine wine: bright and flowery, with a strong backbone and a long, smooth finish. She aged with absolute grace and we were all incredibly lucky to drink from her cup.

Sending solace to her loving husband Rich, devoted daughters Mary Ann and Sarah, and their large combined family, in hope they may find peace in her passing.

I was so fortunate to get to know Katie as my manager at wineshopper.com/Wine.com. She was truly a force of nature on a petite scale. She was savvy, observant, and supportive. She took me under her wing, as she did all of her direct reports, and gave the best advice, much of it focused on putting more commitment into my job and proving my value. I took her lessons to heart throughout my career.

I visited her house once and I remember all of the gorgeous orchids everywhere - she had a gift with these beautiful, delicate blooms. She went to Paris at some point, and I was so touched that she thought of me and gifted me the most beautiful scarf that I still wear today. In fact, I'm pretty sure it started my lifelong passion for scarves.

My condolences to all of her many family members and friends – she was such a bright light.

Katie and I worked together at Wineshopper and became good friends. I'll always remember her epic dinner parties, her quick wit, deep intelligence, and her huge heart. She was a mentor to me in both work and life, and she will be dearly missed.

My very first memory of Katie goes back to when she visited Sarah at Smith College in the late 1990's. She treated Sarah and me to an extraordinary weekend in New York City. It was my first time experiencing a high Episcopal church service, high tea, Broadway, and Fifth Avenue shopping. Even then, in her early 40s, Katie was strikingly beautiful, stylish, intelligent, and perceptive. What shone through most of all was her immense love and pride for her two daughters. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known such a remarkable, warrior of a woman.

Reading Katie’s obituary, I was struck by how perfectly it captured her essence—everything from the values she held dear to the way she moved through the world. The final quote, "Though she has passed from our sight and is irreplaceable, the love that bound her to her family and friends remains whole and unbroken, for love is stronger than death," is exactly how I feel, too.

I believe Katie knew how much I cherished our friendship. It was a bond that felt like God’s design from the moment we met over 35 years ago as sales professionals and single moms. I’ve always admired her for so many things: her pride in her family, the beautiful legacy she built in her girls and her grandkids, and her endless supply of kindness and integrity. Whether it was her sense of style, her sharp wit, her incredible cooking, or her leadership as a CEO and Madam Mayor, she was always authentically herself. I feel so lucky that I got to sit at Katie's table so many times; enjoying an exquisite meal alongside engaging conversation is the ultimate recipe for a memorable dining experience with the Hoertkorns and their friends.

When she moved to the Bay Area in 1994, it felt like destiny. I only wish we’d found a way to live closer, so we could have had more cups of tea in a thriving garden and a few more laughs. We spent almost every conversation catching up on our kids and grandkids—we had so much fun sharing those stories. Seeing all the family photos posted today was heart warming. Since our birthdays were just weeks apart, we made sure to celebrate with a fine-dining treat. I brilliantly always let Katie choose the latest San Francisco or Marin hot spot, and then we’d "glam up" for the occasion with a glass of very nice bubbly and, perhaps, her favorite chocolate dessert.

I think back to that week in the spring of 2017 when I was with Katie for her treatments at MSK in NYC, where she received such extraordinary care. I was there as a stand-in for Rich, and I remember her working as Mayor of Ross right from our hotel room while she navigated those first steps of healing—and, funny enough, even taking an unusual request call from a future governor's mother-in-law (a surprising request that was firmly denied!). We walked 1.2 miles to and from her treatments every day, sometimes twice a day for her integrative therapy, special light-touch massage, and acupuncture. And, naturally, we still managed to fit in a spa facial at our hotel. Rich was, of course, her steadfast rock by her side through every part of her journey. Katie told me many times just how much his love and support meant to her, and I saw that devotion firsthand.

I still smile thinking about the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon, that she and Rich took my husband, Don, and me to in September 2018. She was rocking her new curly pixie-cut—styled by chemo—and had this natural gift for creating connection and joy; her smile really did light up any room she was in.

She became an incredible advocate for herself, learning so much about her care, yet she never lost focus on what mattered most: her family, her friends, her colleagues, and her community. Katie’s faith was a light for all of us. She was actually one of the reasons I found my way back to my own faith 30 years ago. Her simple, gentle reminder to take time to thank the Lord in church each week stayed with me and truly shaped how I live today.

Recently, I was able to hold her hand and tell her "thank you." I wanted her to know that her life is a testament to love, courage, and faith. She touched so many more hearts than she could have ever imagined. Through it all, she gave us her laughter, her warmth, and that rare ability to put others first. Even when things were hardest, she made you feel seen, cared for, and lifted. By the way, those recent visits came with a foot massage while I watched her enjoy whatever favorite food she desired!

Don and I are sending our deepest love and comfort to all of Katie’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We regret missing her service on Saturday as we are out of town, but we are with you all in spirit.

You will always be treasured, Katie. With all our love.

Katie was a hugely important person in my life. I always said I won the in-law lottery as I was lucky enough to get to spend a huge amount of time with both Katie and Rich. A few particularly impactful memories:
When we met for the first time: She was the CEO of a venture funded company and I was running my own small startup. The line of questioning was rough, but appropriate - clearly Mary Ann and I were serious.
When I flew up to Napa to ask her for Mary Ann's hand in marriage. Tears of joy were shed by both of us the moment we saw one another.
After Sadie was born she would come over and help out, while also being CEO of a VC funded logistics company. Taking calls while cooking and never complaining or slowing down - that unstoppable energy that everyone who knows her is familiar with.
When she was mayor, people would drastically underestimate her and try to think they'd be able to steamroll her and get what they wanted. WRONG. One time she even had to tell Rich to stop talking at a public meeting because his time was up!
Spending time with her grandkids, particularly at Christmas - she loved reading to them and instilled a lifelong love of reading in the grandkids. She'd even do it over Zoom right up until the end, and when she couldn't read anymore, they'd read to her!
Teaching Eleanor how to bake both in person and over Zoom. Somehow she was able to understand what was going on enough to be effective in helping her.
She's leaving a big hole in our lives and will be sorely missed!

The Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam teaches us to repair and improve the world, leaving it better than we found it. Katie lived this value every day, touching the lives of others with compassion, warmth, and grace, including my own.

Namaste Katie

To Rich, Sarah, Mary Ann and all of Katie’s family,
You have my deepest sympathy. I have loved Katie since she and I were beginning English teachers in 1972 at Rufus King High School. We were both 21; I was 11 days older than she. I learned so much from her.
It is hard for me to comprehend that she is gone. I am very sad. That said, I am grateful for every shared experience and conversation I had with her through the years.
I know these last 10 years were not easy for any of you and I was constantly amazed at how she faced every challenge even until the very end. She loved you all so much and found so much joy in her grandchildren.
I envision her now somewhere in the cells of the universe sharing her faith and beliefs with C.S. Lewis. I was reminded of that faith every Christmas when I received her card, first as homemade block printed ones and then the religious art ones, always with a little note in her distinctive handwriting.
Katie inspired, guided, and loved so many. Please know I am thinking of you and the journey you are on at this moment.

It gives me great sorrow to know that my dear friend of more than 50 years is no longer with us. No matter where life took us, we never lost touch. Katie had two girls, and I had two boys, all about the same age. One of my best memories was when we took the kids skiing on a small slope on Forest Home Avenue in Milwaukee. That experience had a tremendous impact on my eldest son, Marshall. Marshall now lives in Colorado and has become an avid skier. He credits the ski trip with Katie and her daughters with lighting the match for his skiing adventures.

It’s no surprise that Katie and I shared many traits, as we were both Virgos with birthdays just a week apart. Katie was highly opinionated and never hesitated to stand up for what she believed was right and just. She was determined, persistent, and rarely accepted no for an answer. She would have made an excellent debater.

Although I didn’t see Katie often, she was always on my mind and in my heart. Her courage was undeniable. I will always treasure our times together.

My long lasting memories of Katie

Katie was especially warm and kind to me and my family. When I moved out to California from NY in February 2005 to become COO of Katie’s company, I left my family back in New Jersey so my younger son could finish out the school year and graduate high school, and continue his treatment for Leukemia. For 5 months I lived alone in Yountville and Katie would frequently invite me over to Katie and Rich’s house in Ross for Sunday meals, so that I would not feel alone. She was an incredibly nurturing person.
When my son, Carlton, had to move back home to Yountville and take a leave of absence from USC for further cancer treatments, Katie would make a point of inviting us all over to make sure Carlton had added community to his life. She always had time for others.
My wife and I were fortunate enough to attend the Aspen Food and Wine Festival one year and stay at Rich and Katies Snowmass house for several days with Rich’s daughters with Katie making sure we were made part of all the family activities.
I worked for Katie for 2 years at New Vine Logistics and got to appreciate her hard work, dedication, and professionalism in the entrepreneurial world of VC backed companies. She was a tough one! But everyone loved and appreciated her, and she was a great advocate for her employees and respected within the wine industry.
After moving on to my own entrepreneurial adventures, I always kept in touch with Katie, always trading Christmas cards and having long chats on the phone once or twice a year. She was a good friend and comrade, and I will miss her.

Ron Scharman

I first heard of Katie, as a brand new Sales Executive with DHL New Zealand, and recall thinking how amazing this woman must be to have a top position in DHL USA. After a short stint with DHL in London, I took a role as a Global Account Manager in Detroit, and got to meet Katie in person. We became friends over the years, and although it’s been quite some time since I last saw Katie in person, we kept in touch. She was of huge support to me during my late husband’s decline with stage four cancer, and sent me messages regularly to let me know she was there. There is no doubt Katie was an incredible person, friend, mom, grand-mom, and quite the force of nature—unforgettable in so many ways. Indeed, she has left an indelible mark on me, and will always be in my heart. Love and blessings to everyone that loved Katie, and there were many. 💔💔💔

Thanks Katie, our work together was too short, but I enjoyed your sharp mind and quick wit tremendously.

I met Katie in 1999 when I applied for the position of her assistant. My French name may even have helped me land the job! I have fond memories of quick escapes from the office to check out a new restaurant in the Napa Valley or visit an old favorite.

Over the years, Katie’s role in my life evolved from co-worker to mentor, friend, and ultimately, an inspiration. Although our careers eventually took us in different directions, we never lost touch. No matter where life led us, Katie never failed to respond whenever I called or emailed. Her words of support and guidance meant the world to me.

Katie will always be my Chanel Girl. I miss her dearly and will forever cherish the time I was fortunate enough to spend with her.

A true force of nature, trailblazer and leader.

Very Saddened to hear of Katie’s passing. Blessed to have known such an amazing person. She and Richard were very good customers of mine and my Fathers for over 30 yrs. Always made sure the girls got a gift at Christmas time and special occasions and Richard made sure Katie got her special gift.
Her warmth, resilience and good nature will continue to be in everyone’s heart and soul.
Deepest condolences from
Ray and Ben
Ben Moses Jewelry co NYC

Katie’s confidence was contagious. She had a remarkable ability to lead you beyond your own expectations, always seeing potential you hadn’t yet recognized in yourself. She embraced her peers across the world with genuine warmth and generosity. She was a true warrior — strong, steady, and loyal — and an even better friend.

But above all, Katie’s greatest pride and deepest joy came from being a mother. Her love for her girls was fierce, tender, and constant. She spoke of them with a light in her eyes that made everything else fade into the background. They were her heart, her purpose, and her greatest accomplishment.

I will deeply miss knowing she was just a call away — always welcoming, always glad to hear my voice, always ready to lift me up. Her presence made the world feel a little lighter, and her absence will be felt by all who were lucky enough to know her.