Kathy DeSmith, 74, of the Left-Hand Ranch in Wellington, tragically and accidentally passed away on July 5, 2014. She died with her boots on at the ranch she loved so well.
Kathy was born in Sodas, N.Y., to Bill and Geraldine DeSmith. When her family moved to Colorado, Kathy realized she was in “her place.” After graduating from Colorado State University with a major in physical education, her love of ranching and the rural life led her to teach in small, rural schools. She taught at the Grover school for 17 years, and continued to substitute teach at Grover and Wellington schools after retirement.
Those left to cherish and honor Kathy’s memory are three sisters: Mary Decker (Darryl), Julie DeSmith (Jackie Parker), Gerry Gentry; brother, Fred DeSmith (Elaine); special friend, Tom Mulhollund, and Kate Hendren, life partner.
The world has lost a beautiful person, a woman who touched countless lives, a woman always ready to lend a hand, share an experience and give advice. She was a nonjudgmental person who lived life on honest, hard-working principles — too rare today.
We lost a friend, a love, a ray of light throughout any gloom. She was never too busy, always welcoming, and loved by many. We will miss you; your time was well-spent.
A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Aug. 9, 2014, at Heart of the Rockies Church. 6501 Brittany St. in Fort Collins. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kathy DeSmith Fund at Pawnee School District, PO Box 220, Grover, CO 80729.