Kathryn Ann Coleman

Kathryn (Katy) Ann Coleman, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024. Born on March 12, 1954, in Pennsylvania to Thomas and Helen Baatz, Katy’s life was a vibrant tapestry of creativity and love.

Katy was renowned for her imaginative quilting designs, where her use of color and creativity shone brightly. Her artistic talents extended beyond fiber arts; she was a gifted choreographer and designer for high school color guards, dance teams, and show choirs throughout the Midwest. From 1987 to 1995, she served as the color guard choreographer for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Cornhusker Marching Band, leaving a lasting legacy.

Katy is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Helen Baatz. She is survived by her loving husband, Dennis Coleman; her daughter, Amanda Bowers (husband Josh); her sons, Benjamin Coleman (wife Casey) and Christian Coleman (partner Lisa Charles); and her cherished grandchildren, Scarlett and Sullivan Coleman, and Micah and Lucy Bowers. She also leaves behind her sisters and brothers: Elaine, Ellen, Carolyn, Mark, John, Paul, Phillip, Lisa, and George and their spouses. Additionally, she is survived by many nieces and nephews, and countless marching band students who considered her their “band mom.”

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 29, at 6 PM at Summit Church in Apex, NC, with family visitation starting at 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, Katy wished that memorial contributions be made to the Apex Friendship High School Bands Program at https://tinyurl.com/AFHSBands and Greater Impact Dance Studio at https://tinyurl.com/DanceKT .

Katy’s warmth, creativity, and dedication touched the lives of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.