Katherine Ann Kroening

ROCHESTER, MINN:Katherine Katie A. Kroening, 77, of Rochester, died Friday, January 6, 2012 at Saint Marys Hospital due to complications from pneumonia. Katie was born on September 27, 1934 at Saint Marys Hospital in Rochester, MN to Michael and Amanda Keefe of Stewartville.She had two brothers, Michael Keefe of California and Pat Keefe of Stewartville.She grew up on the family farm and graduated from Stewartville High School in 1952. Katie married Duane H. Kroening of Rochester in 1974.They made their life together on Duane's farm in Haverhill Township.Duane passed away in 1998.Katie then moved into the city of Rochester.She was employed at Norwest Bank in Rochester for 37 years. Her fondest memories were of summer gardening, both vegetables and flowers on the farms.She enjoyed the fall season, she liked racking the fall leaves.She considered her career at Norwest Bank a great accomplishment because she was able to meet and help so many people.She enjoyed bowling, traveling and sports.She was an avid Twins and Packers fan. Katie was an active volunteer.She felt thankful that she was able to help others at the community clothesline, Salvation Army and Samaritan Bethany Home on Eighth.She was a member of the Rochester Senior Center, where she loved to play cards.She was delighted to spend time with her two Red Hatter groups, going on fun outings and spending time with friends.Katie stated that her philosophy was, If it is to be, it is up to me. Katie is survived by two step-sons, Mike (Carrie) Kroening and Randy Kroening, both of Rochester; two nephews, Tory Keefe and Brett (Dena) Keefe, both of Stewartville; five nieces, Kristin (Steve) Paulson of Rochester, Debbie Keefe and Belinda (Dale) Langdon, both of California, Vicki (Tom) Keefe of New Hampshire, and Sharon (Rick) Magdaz of Missouri.She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; both brothers; and a sister-in-law. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at Peace United Church of Christ, 1503 - 2nd Ave NE, with the Reverend Paul Bauch officiating.Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.Interment will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens.