Kathryn “Kathy” Faye Vorwerk returned home to her Lord on Monday January 27, 2025, after battling a brief illness. She was born in Continental, Ohio, on July 10,1934 to Fred and Dorothy (Shawver) Howell. Kathryn learned early on the meaning of hard work, self-sufficiency, and helping others. Kathy embraced a life filled with various endeavors, but none was as special to her as using her self-taught skills as a seamstress. From making draperies for Deluxe Cleaners and Andersons to custom projects for members of the community, Kathryn became known as the local go-to seamstress even designating a special spot in her home for all of her sewing projects.
Kathy’s true passion was serving others, a commitment she upheld tirelessly throughout her life. Up until the last few months, she could always be found lending a hand, whether to friends, neighbors, church members, or local organizations. Kathy devoted her time and energy to causes close to her heart, including creating blankets for the unhoused of Henry County, supporting the Henry County Senior Center, and volunteering with the Deshler Bavarian House.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Fred and Dorothy Howell; her brothers, Naval Commander, Fred Howell Jr. and Rolland Howell; as well as her spouses, William “Bill” Ranzau and Dorence Vorwerk.
She is survived by her daughter, Theresa Bowen, Ph.D. (Michael); her grandchildren, David Heller, Amanda Bowen, and Michael Bowen Jr. (Ariana); and five great-grandchildren, Nichelle Heller, Daija Heller, Zac Olson, Zara Bowen, and Charles Bowen.
Family and friends are invited to honor Kathryn’s life with a visitation from 11am to 1pm, followed by a service at 1pm, on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home in Napoleon. Memorial contributions in Kathy’s honor can be made to the National Forestry Foundation or the Arbor Day Foundation. Online condolences and messages may be shared with the family at rodenbergergray.com.
