In memory of Katie Degerberg

Katie

Memorial Services:
Thursday Feb. 4th, 4pm-9pm at Lakeview Funeral Home
1558 w. Belmont, Chicago, IL 60657
Friday Feb 5th, 10am at Our Lady of Mt.Carmel Church
708 w. Belmont, Chicago, IL 60657
12pm at Calvary Cemetery
Evanston, IL
Feel free to send flowers, make a donation to Doctors without Borders in Katies name, or if you wish you may make a contribution to help cover funeral costs.
If you have any questions feel free to email me.
Thank you ahead of time for all your support.
Danny

Diana and I are devastated by the loss of Katie. She was like a mother to the both of us. Katie was our voice of reason, our mentor, the go to person when we didn't know where to go. I met Katie my first day training at the Degerberg Academy over 25 years ago. Fred and Katie together have taught me so much and I owe so much to the both of them for helping me become the man I am today. Katie was the symbolic mother figure for Diana who always made time for her when life got overwhelming. She was truly one of the best people we will ever know and she will always live on in our hearts. We will miss you so much Katie.
Ron Balicki and Diana Lee Inosanto

Welcome to Katie Degerberg's Memorial Website.

"I have only slipped away into the next room, I am I and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Play, smile, think of me. All is well."

Katie even though petite in stature was a very strong classy woman and I always appreciated her wisdom and guidance. I had the pleasure of knowing her for about 30 years and she was loving and caring to Fred and always took great care of me when I visited my Degerberg family in Chicago. I will always cherish the memories with her and Fred when we vacationed and attended conventions together. I am so glad that I got to see you again last October and tell you about Debra. I will miss you Katie but will never forget you. Love Cliff
Cliff Lenderman

Katie: I loved all the chats we had... the giggles over Fred and the heart to heart talks over life, love, puppies and so much more. You had such a gift of compassion. You will be missed but will live in my heart until I see you again.. Huge hug to Fred and the Degerberg family and friends. Love you!!
KC LaVallee

The Kindness and Gentleness in the hearts of these Giants is never forgotton. May God Bless you Katie in your new home. We will miss you, but your presence will still remain here with us.
Terry Maccarrone

Master Degerberg--- my deepest condolances to you and your family in this time of loss. Know that we are thinking of you.
John Borter

Like relatives and friends, we sometimes loose touch with each other. Then there are times like this make it sad that we did not keep in touch more. I am so sorry for your loss. She was a good person and a sole mate that i am sure you will miss.
A few years ago I had a problem with people passing. I was given a book that talked about past lives of people as well the future lives of people. I don"t know if his book really helped my problem but it was an answer. Then a few months ago I was at a wake where a family member spoke. In her talk she mentioned that the person who gets her Mother"s soul will be a very lucky person. Somehow I was relieved.
Take care my friend.
Master Jerry Weiss

The D.K.K.C.I. Family and Myself personally express our deepest condolences at your loss. May God Bless You & Your Family in this time of need!
Soke Reginald Hoover

Master Degerberg--- my deepest condolances to you and your family in this time of loss. The Martial Arts community has lost a great person, she gave great wisdom, We will miss HER GREATLY. I *BOW* With Respect and I bend a knee in a prayer for your family, may peace fall upon your family
Mr. Traylor

Dear Grandmaster Fred, The international Hoshinkido hapkido and myself send to you and to your family our deepest condoleances in the loss of Katie.We are thinking of you
Grandmaster serge Baubil

When the sweet and kind people leave us, we realize how special they really are to us. I"m really sorry to hear of your lose, may god bless her.
Bill Bartolone

Our prayers are with you and your Family.
Sensei Jeff Mulvin

My deepest condolances to you and your family ..
Nicholas Curran

When someone leaves us their soul and spirit are always nearby. My condolences to Master Degerberg and and family, God Bless,
Kellard Walker

Hello GM Degerberg. It"s been a very long time since I was at your school and met you and your lovely wife. On behalf of the National Korean Martial Arts Association and myself, please accept our most sincere condolences. You and your family are in our prayers.
Rudy W. Timmerman

We will miss Katies wonderful charm and smile! Our Deepest Sympathy is with you! She fought a great fight! We will keep you and your family in our prayers! Dan & Mary
Mary Treacy Jansa

Katie :You will hear these words before we will. Well done my Good and Faithful Servant. We will all miss you, until we all meet again around the Father.
Mark & Robyn Gildemeester

Katie was probably the sweetest and wisest lady I"ve known. I have many fond memories of sitting with her and Fred at the Degerberg"s kitchen table drinking coffee and talking for hours. She was always so kind and thoughtful (And a great cook as well) She will be missed by all who new her. I love you Fred. My family will be sending a special blessing to the both of you.
dave kovar

I will never forget you! I thought of you as a big sister I never had. I am glad to have known you! Katie, you have inspired all of our lives. We will miss you! Fred we love you my entire family sends you our love and prayers.
John L Herault

I have nothing but wonderfull memories of Katie through the 30yrs. I"ve known her. Always giving of herself, caring for others, thinking of you ,not herself. She guided the school through the early years, kept it together, kept it running, but always in the backround, never in the spotlight. Now it"s her turn to shine, forever. We loved her and we will miss her.
Nick Zartler

To my dear friend and wonderful lady We know you are happy and with your maker Some day we will all meet on the beach!
Ned

So very sorry for your loss, my thoughts will be with you and your family.
Kyosh Jeff Burlingame

t is with our deepest heartfelt sympathy to hear of the passing of Katie.We have gotten to know and become friends over the years.We will miss you.Fred you are in our thoughts and prayers
John & Laura Beluschak

Master Degerberger - We only recently met through EFC, and I wish you condolences from our family to yours. My most sincere thoughts are with you in this difficult time.
Kathy Olevsky

Our prayers are with you and your Family. You will always be in the thoughts and prayers of the love ones that you touched.
Kyoshi Tim Thompson

Master Degerberg,
As long as I can remember you and Katie were (as Forrest Gump put it) like "peas and carrots." She will be missed by many. My prayers are with with you. !
Jason Kifer

My heart is a broken today as I learn of the passing of one of the most kind, gentle, and beautiful people I"ve ever known. Katie, your life on this earth was a blessing to many, and I was one of the many. Fred my friend, you are one of my favorite people. Your "larger than life" personality is truely one of a kind. I cry with you my friend, and at the same time celebrate the gift of the many years to had with this incredible woman.
Rick Bell

Hello G.M.Degerberg, On behaf of the World International Combat Martial Arts Society and myself,Please accept our condolences to You and Your family are always in our prayers.
G.M.Soke Dr.Jagdish Singh Khatri

May God Bless you and your family during these tough times.
Lamon Kersey

My depest condolases even ,Iwill lite an insens in front of Buddha asking to let her soul enter the promes land.USH!!!!
Master Edgar Nazario Saniel

This is sad new"s and our condolences to you and your family. You will be in our prayers...
Bob Brewer

Fred, our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Katie was a wonderful woman who will live on in the hearts and minds of those that knew her. God Bless
Harry & Linda Grimm

As martial artists we have lost a VERY kind & special friend. Katie ALWAYS was good to everyone. Thank you for guiding me in the martial arts as well as life. You are missed already. I will continue to share & be kind to others as you were to me & so many others. God Bless. Fred we are here for you.
Kathy Faust

Grandmaster Degerberg,my deepest condolances to you and your family in this time of loss. Know that I thinking on you.
Sifu Sinisa Ivanji

Dear Friends, From the: International Shim Shin-Do Martial Arts Federation we send our condolences to you and all that knew her. May the Lord comfort with his peace and love. Psalm: 23
Grandmaster / Founder Sergio Barriga

ime and distance have seperated us but knowing Katie and Fred has been a bright spot in my life. Brother Fred, you have my sympathy.
Lee Wedlake

please accept my condolences. From Sri Lanka
Dinesh

Master Degerberg--- my deepest condolances to you and your family in this time of loss. The Martial Arts community has lost a great person, she gave great wisdom, We will miss HER GREATLY. I *BOW* With Respect and I pray for your family, may peace fall upon your family master PARISI QI KWANDO
MASTER PARISI UK

Fred, Sometimes don"t know why things happen. But! we do know that the memories, and the time and space spent with Katie will live with us forever. Just as I remember Katie"s outstanding home cooked dinner for Dan and I, and the students who you invited to your home. My Prayers and Condolences to you and your family. Aloha
Richard S. Bustillo

I had the pleasure of meeting Katie at Chuck Norris" inaugural KDOOA event in Chicago in 1997. Fred always spoke of her so fondly and would let me know how she was doing through the years. I"m so sorry for your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Theresa Ortega

"Master Degerberg our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. Behind every great man is always an even greater woman and your wonderful wife will be missed by all, God Bless.
The Anderson Family
Master Dan J. Anderson

Dear Fred,
My family sends you and Katie, love and respect. I will call you --and am thinking of you both.
Love,
Tom Callos

Fred,
Katie loved you very much. You could see it in her eyes and feel it from her heart. We will all miss her.
Joyce Santamaria

I am very sorry to hear this news. Definitely, a huge lost for all of us and to the entire Karate community. May God Bless you and your family during these tough times.
On behalf of Miyagi Dojo and my family, I wish to expend our deepest sympathy to the Master Degerbergs family.
Fatih Ince

Master Degerberg, Jennifer and I are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Bill Taylor

In the Martial Arts World Katie and Fred Shine Bright as a wonderful couple. My prayers and concern go out Fred and the family. The wonderful spirit and life of Katie made the world a better place. Her spirit will live in the minds and hearts of all she touched here! She is now at rest with the Lord and in Peace. We will miss her and appreciate her kind contributions.
My condolences to Fred and Family.
John Godwin

Greetings Master Degerberg; my mother recently has gone on to be with the Lord! Even though we have never met in the physical since. It is with the spriit that we connect, and understand that it is a very difficult thing when your love one moves on to their resting place. It is all the good times, the real love, the experience, and history; it is faith, that heolps us continue on! May God"s Grace and Mercy be with you and your family... Mark Waler Schools Of Moses Powell.............Peace
Mark Walker Dai Shihan

Dear Grandmaster Fred, The Armed Services Judo & Jujitsu Academy and extended family members extend to you and your family our most sincere condoleances in the loss of your best friend and companion Katie. You are always in our prayers and thoughts. od bless. Grandmaster Robinson, Pensacola, FL.
Grandmaster H. G. Robby Robinson

Fred, We share in your grief, Katie will be missed by her many friends. Our prayers for her will continue long after she reaches Heaven.
Tom and Theresa Saviano

Mother has gone but only for a short while, as when our time comes, we will see Mother again. Katie was a very special woman with a very special gift of love. The capacity in her heart was larger than life and I am blessed to have known her and love and miss her. Thank you Katie for being in our lives and you will never be forgotten. Good Journey.
Jaime Garcia

Dear Fred,
I" am so sorry for your loss. I am sending you my deepest sympathy as I can not be there.
Gary Raffanti

Katie was like a second mother to me. She had a presence that could pleasantly ease everyone in a room, no matter what was going on. When I would go visit the Fred & Katie in their home, she was so welcoming and friendly (as was Fred, of course). She was nothing but hospitable and caring, and would really make you feel at home. Anytime things were difficult for me, whether I was a child, adolescent, or adult, she would make me feel better just with her warming, compassionate company.
Katie was one of the strongest women I have known. Even when she was ill, she would still show up to events, and greet everyone in the same gentle yet fiery spirit that had been there the days we all met her. Her spirit was always there, and it still is among us. It is a sad time, but I am choosing to look back on the memories of her presence. We have all had comforting, unforgettable memories and of her, and we will continue to look back, but also look forward, as she would want.
We will miss you Katie. We love you dearly.
Ida Dolce

Katie was the rock behind everything Degerberg. May she rest in Peace and continue to watch over us as she always has! Prayers and thoughs to Fred and the family.
Rita Figueroa

George, Alex and I love Katie very much. She was always such a loving and caring person and had such a great soul. Katie, along with Fred always made us feel like part of their family. We are lucky to have known Katie and we will miss her very much.
Angela Gibson

The strength of a woman can carry the weight of the world. Katie was the strength of our Degerberg family. We will miss her greatly. My thoughts are with you, Fred.
Linda Kurtos

DEAR FRED,SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,KATIE WILL ALLWAYS BE A GREAT SPIRIT IN ALL OF OUR LIFES. OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY FROM ALL OF MY STUDENTS.I WILL CALL YOU. LOVE,J.G.
JOE GANGI

Mr. Degerberg im very sorry for your loss my prayers are with you and your family.
Dennis Wright

sorry to know that the martial art world as lost the wife of an grate martial artist may god grant you and your family pace.
Professor Christopher Norville

Whenever we saw Katie, we only saw her smiling, sharing her wisdom and showing her concern for all those around her. She was a strong lady with a positive spirit. We were saddened to hear of her passing. Although we haven"t seen her and the rest of the Degerberg family in a while, we look back fondly at all our memories there. Fred you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Damlos Family

met her only once and fell in like with her.......Fred i have known you many years and give my condolences and prayers for her ,you, and your family. God be with her and you
mike francisco

You both have been such a very special part of my life. Katie was a shining light during a dark time in my life, and for her love, advice, friendship and grace, I will always be thankful. There is a special place in my heart for both of you. Katie will be missed, and yet will always be with me. My love to both of you.
Jim Dougherty

Katie, in my experience, has always epitomized the classiest lady I"ve ever know. She is full of grace and decorum and takes on as many hats that is necessary at the time with whomever she is with. She had a timeless style. Katie had the most sensible nature. When something had to be done, she was the first to dig in. We are all better people because of her. Through her loving guidance and tender discipline she help mold and shape an army of dedicated friends. I will always love Katie. She was my friend, confidant, sister, and Auntie to my children. I will miss Katie.
Jodie Nigro

Dear Fred, I was so sorry to hear about Katie. Hard to believe it was 33 years ago when we first met. We had a lot of good times together. I remember all of the parties you had and all of the hard work Katie did to make each one successful. I know she was your rock, the one who worked quietly behind the scenes to make sure the academy ran so well. I know you will miss her but know that she is in the loving arms of God and he will take care of her now. All my love,
Sue Cruz

Fred I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you.
Cindy Blue Reissinger

Our hearts and thoughts are with you during this difficult time - please know you have our deepest sympathy
Harry & Linda Grimm

Fred, sorry to hear of your loss. Deepest sympathy from all of Master Abbate"s students.
Sifu Jennifer Wallace

Katie was a warm, funny, vibrant woman who always made me feel welcome. I enjoyed swapping stories with her and I am so glad to have met her. Fred, I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss her and hold you in my thoughts. Much love.
Dorian Anderson

Dear Fred. My deepest condolances to you and your family. Am sorry that I will not be at the service due to my work schedule, but know in your heart that my thoughts and prayers are with you. Linda (Manuel) Gubin
Linda Manuel Gubin

Dear Master Degerberg,
It is with a heavy heart that we type this note to you. Mrs. Degerberg was a very special person to so many. She was able to keep you in line. No easy task. We are so sorry for your loss. She will be greatly missed. Mrs. Degerberg was always very kind and considerate. I still remember her hospitality when we visited you. She made us feel welcome and at home. On the 31st of January 2010, we lost a Saint on this earth and Heaven gained a powerful Angel Please know that you and your family are in our prayers, Sir. If you need anything at all, let us know. Take comfort in knowing that she is in a better place and is at peace. Also, take comfort in knowing that there are many families across this country that Mrs. Degerberg and you touched. As a result, there are many families that have you and your family in their thoughts and prayers.
With great sympathy,
Garland & Bridget Johnson
Garland & Bridget Johnson

From My very first day at The "Deg", Katie welcomed me into the "Family". I remember being out on the road on a photo project, and called Fred and Katie to say thanks for having the academy, allowing me to train there. And Katie said to me " Rick, you were just ment to be here,welcome to the Family, we Love you". She Always, had a warm Hug, for me, and always asked me how my life was going. and always, always, invited me over for dinner. she will always remain in my heart.
Rick Stewart

Katie"s passing is sad beyond any words. I have known Fred and Katie for nearly 17 years and can truly say together they were like a second set of parents. I believe I am in the place I am because of them and the school. They created a home for those of us that needed it. This is a great loss... she will be missed more than most people could ever imagine. I for one am very thankful to have met someone like Katie. My heart, as well as my family"s, go out to Fred and the rest of the family.
Marchello Michaud

Aloha Fred, it is a testament to what you both bring to the world by the out pouring of emotions people are sharing here. Life is full of good and bad times, recall the good one"s and know that you both are loved. Aloha, Joshua St.Ives
Joshua St.Ives

FROM THE GEE-RYU KARATE DO SYSTEM IN THE CARRIBBEAN ,WE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS AND SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
GRAND MASTER PAUL CLERY FROM ST.LUCIA

Katie"s passing is sad beyond any words. I"ve known Fred and Katie for nearly 17 years, and can truly say that together they were like a second set of parents. The school was a home they created for those of us who really needed it. I believe I am in the place I am now because of them and the school. I am thankful I had the chance to meet a person like Katie in this lifetime. My heart, as well as my family"s, go out to Fred and her family.
Marchello Michaud

My condolences to Fred Degerberg.
Observed from a distance within the community of Degerberg Academy, Katie Degerberg was always full of kindness. Katie & Fred"s relationship and support of each other, working together, was a blessed testimony as they truly lived out the vow of marriage and portrayed the true image of "love" for each other...
maria m.

Dear Fred. I can still remember as though it was yesterday the first time Denise and I met Katie. It was at Rauls. She looked at me as though she knew me. As we all learned later during dinner, it wasn"t me, but my dad who she knew as one of her cancer patients. She took great care of my dad during his illness, just as she has taken great care of you and all of her Degerberg family. She was a kind, warm, generous soul, and as anyone who ever enjoyed dinner at your home would know, a GREAT COOK! She gave and gave until there was nothing left to give. Denise and I are sorry for your loss and will miss her greatly.
Ed Kress

Master Degerberg, Katie was one of the most friendly and pleasant human beings I "ve ever met. Loved to talk about our dogs. She will be missed. My family and I send our condolences and heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Everybody"s loss........
Allan Ross

Fred, you have our deepest sympathy and I"m sure Katie is watching over you in this trying time. You both were very special people in Jim"s life.
Randy & Sherry Dougherty

Katie was like a mother to us and especially me. I love her and Fred always and will never forget Katie. I have so many fond memories of her incredible strength and wisdom. One time in particular during a sparing match, I connected shins with my partner from a roundhouse that burst a vein in my leg. In a leg immobilzer I came to the dojo to teach my class intending to do so sitting down, and there was KATIE who just so happen to be at the front desk. Just like my loving mother, she ORDERED me to go home and rest then told Danny not to let me in the school. I also remember how she knew I was going to have a migraine before I did. The only other person able to do this is my mother. Katie, I miss you more than words can say, and Fred means just as much to me. Fred, I know how much you must miss Katie and how much she meant to you and I pray the pain of your loss is not unbearable Sensei. Love and respect, Rodney Gamble, Degerberg student forever!
Rodney Gamble

Master Degerberg, The Cultural Research Institute sends our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Sidney D. Arnold

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST I PRAY THAT GOD CONTINUES TO BLESS YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME OF GRIEF. BE STRONG.
INSTRUCTOR GENE HARRISON JR.

Fred, Katie changed many lives just by being who she was. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Life is eternal and it is only a little while until we are all together again. I look forward to getting to know Katie better . . .
Dana Stamos

Our condolences from one family to another, I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love. Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower, We will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind.
May the blessings of love be upon you, May its peace abide with you, May its essence illuminate your heart, Now and forever more.
Sifu Stephen Mcdonald, Staff and, Students. God Bless
Macs Kungfu Institute

I will miss you, Kate. You possessed a rare set of gifts and you used them benevolently. You were more than a friend. I can probably say nothing more important than this: I thank God that my daughters knew you, and learned from you what a woman should be. You have my love forever.
Paul Rosenberg

Our hearts, Our thoughts, Our Symphathy. May you feel the love that surrounds you today and the caring thoughts that are with you now. Katie will always be in our hearts, Fred you will always be our family. With symphathy,
The Brenka Family

We did not know either of you on a personal level but all this love from so many, our hearts and prayers are with you. Be strong & God bless.
Dale, Mary & Jordan Hestermann

If one word could describe my almost 20 year experience at the Degerberg Academy it would have to be "Family". We have lost our Matriarch. Through her gentle approach, loving guidance, wisdom, and the biggest heartfelt love and acceptance she offered everyone at the school I feel like one of my teachers of life has passed on into the next life. I have known Fred and Katie since I was 11 years old and having spent many nights watching movies in their livingroom, eating dinner, or just talking about how my life and relationships were going which she had some great answers to my questions, I felt like these were my adopted parents and they really genuinly loved all of us and cared about where we were headed in life and if they could help in any way they would and did. We can all remember the great times we had in Katies presence and all she taught us. She was truly a Black Belt in life and a true champion fighter. I can remember how she would be the one keeping us "Boys" in line and even Fred when we would be joking around a little to much or saying things off topic all she would have to do is say one word or someones name and you just knew it was time to turn it down. There was never yelling or screaming just this powerful commanding yet gentle voice that had us all under control and helping us stay on track. I cannot express in words how I feel about this great loss to me personally. I am deeply saddened and express my most heartfelt condolences to you Fred and the rest of your family. Rest now mother and watch over us from above. Keep us on the right track as you have always. I love you Katie and will miss you greatly.
Michael ILIC

What wonderful memories I have of you and Katie. Many laughs and always a caring heart behind her every word and action. You are both in my thoughts and prayers.
Chris Rappold

What we remember about Katie the most was her big, sunny smile. We loved seeing Fred and Katie arm in arm. They turned heads when they entered a room. What a great couple -- role models for all the other couples running schools. Fred, we will keep you in our hearts and payers. Blessings to you.
Dennis and Andrena Brown

The world has lost an amazing lady. Katie had a heart and a smile that was so genuine and warm. Her grace and poise is unforgettable. I send many prayers and love to Fred and family. D. Eddy
Dee

There are no words to ease the pain of a loss like this. It was my pleasure to know her and I want you to know that my heart is with you in this difficult time. My deepest sympathy, Gina Ybarra
Gina

You where lucky find such great lady like katie.You loved her ,as she loved you.So many will miss her.
Jarvis Richards

Mr. Degerberg my condolences and God bless you.
MM

Fred, I feel blessed to have such fond memories of Katie and to have both of you in my life. She will live forever in the minds and hearts of the many lives she touched. Know that she and you are loved by all of your children in the Martial Arts. God Bless
Steve LaVallee

Mr. Degerberg my condolences to you & your family. She will be missed.
Vic & Peaches, Sitinos family.
vic sitinos

As your friend of 50 years, I feel the loss as if I have lost family. Judy and I and the Lombardo Family offer our condolences and wish you strength and love in this most trying of times.
Carlo Lombardo

Fred and Katie gave me my first job when I moved to Chicago. I would not be the person that I am today without them. My heart goes out to Fred and the Degerberg family.
Mary Heinz

I have been struggling to put into words my feelings of loss at Katie"s passing. My personal loss and the individual losses of each of us seem rather insignificant compared to the loss Fred must feel. Fred and Katie were unique and cut from the same cloth. They have been simply Fred and Katie to us for as long as I"ve known them. No need for titles. Master or Sifu or Shihan was never necessary. Respect was automatic. The humility of Fred and Katie was natural, comfortable and awe-inspiring. They both led, we all followed. They taught us all how to live. How to enjoy the moment. "Drop your BS and be." I had the unique privilege to be a confidant of Katie"s. From time to time, even recently, when troubled, she would ask me for advice. Me? I am not worthy, I am not wise. Yet she sought me out. I suspect even then she was trying to do me a favor. Preparing me for her passing. Building my strength to endure and to be there for others in the way many cannot. To assure that her only true love, Fred, would be looked after. She led simply by putting others first. Through humility, charity, good will, compassion, acceptance and lack of pretense she taught us what so many martial artists think they teach and fail at. How to live. How to be a good person. How to be better and better. In 1984 on my first meeting of Katie and Fred I remember quite clearly both of them saying at different times, "this is just a vehicle to learn how to be a good person, how to live and how to love." I am not afraid of life without Katie, for Katie still exists in Fred. He has the same qualities, the same compassion, thoughtfullness, kindness and concern. I will follow their philosopy, their example, their path. I will do my best to consider others ahead of myself. To be patient, to listen, to not judge. Above all else, to love. For that is what this tiny woman was made of. Pure unbounding love! My deepest and sincere sympathies to you Fred. I will always be there for you.
greg znajda

Dear Fred,
I am so sorry for the loss of your Katie. She is lucky to have lived a life with someone who loved her so much and remembers her so well. Sadly, I only met Katie a few times before she was ill, but I feel like I know her so well through your vivid stories of her. Katie will live on in your heart and memories and the hearts and memories of those who knew and loved her. I grieve for your loss and look forward to knowing Katie better through future stories. I only wish I could have known her better myself.
Meredith

Grandmaster Degerberg, our hearts and prayers are with you. Grandmaster Abbate always had kind words to say about you and Katie. And those of us at Cobra Kai that were fortunate to meet Katie are truely blessed, she was a great woman.
Cobra Kai Kung Fu Club

Master Degerberg, our sincere sympathies, thoughts and prayers to you and everyone in the Degerberg school and family.
Laura, Nathan, Dillon

Katie was like a mother to us all. She always was there for us in our times of need, and took care of us like we were lost children. I will miss her advice, sincereness, cooking and most of all her warm smile. She was one special person.
Bill Economos

I am so sorry for your loss. Both you and Katie have always had a special place in my heart. Both of you have given so much to me and my family, I will miss her very much. She was a special lady.
Justin Northage-Orr

Dance...like no one is watching.
Sing...like no one is listening.
Love...like you"ve never been hurt before.
Live...like heaven begins tomorrow.
Katie- I will never forget the strength you had to dance, sing, love and live life to its fullest. You were my inspiration through all my years of training at Degerberg! I know in my heart you will always watch over Fred and your Degerberg family. Even though we may live all over the world, we all have "that Degerberg connection"!.
Fred - Love you and will never forget the lessons you instilled in me. :) Keep Rockin" and stay strong!
Michael, Stef and Dean send their love and we will always remember our MA roots!
Helene Whitman

Fred,
Please accept my deepest condolences in your loss. Katie wil always be a special person.
Nate Defensor

How sad to hear that Fred-- and the world-- has had to say farewell to one of its sweetest stars. It"s been a long time since I was at the Degerberg, but Katie"s smile is still fresh in my mind. Somewhere up above, she shines down on us all.
Yvonne Navarro

Dear Fred,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. With love and respect - always...
Sheila Buti

Master Degerberg,
My deepest condolances and sympathy for Katie"s passing. She will be missed and her memory preserved by the many, many people that she influenced, and the world is better for her.
Stuart Hatch

Master Degerberg, our hearts and our thoughts are with you and your family. Though our interaction with Katie was limited, it was always filled with her smile and compassion, always a warm "hi", always a happy nod and giggle at the kids being kids. Our family will miss her and the strength she has brought to the Degerberg family. Our deepest and sincere sympathy.
Sandra Moon & Andrew,Ross,Natalie Myren

Master Degerberg,
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy. We are very sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Katie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your famiily. peace
Allan & Bonnie Ross Gangi Kung Fu
Allan & Bonnie Ross

Fred. Tammy and I wanted to let you know how special we know Katie is to you and offer our prayers. Katie was very gracious to us and we weill never forget that. I know you will stay strong. God bless. Dan & Tammy Timlin
Dan Timlin

Katie Degerberg was a woman with a warm soul who always had a smile for me when I saw her in the halls at Degerberg. I didn"t get a chance to know her as well as some, nor as well as I wish. My family and I pray for Katie as well as for Fred.
Adam Fultz

Sorry to learn of your familys loss .peace
Darin Dorethy

On behalf of La Bocca della Verita", where Katie graced us with her shining presence for so many years, I offer our sincere condolences to Fred and the entire Degerberg organization. She will be missed.
Mary Ann Cascella

Dear Mr. Degerberg:
Mariah Geroulis and I would like to extend our heartfelt sympathies to you and your family in this most sorrowful occasion. May G-d give you the strength to endure the passing of your beloved wife . Sincerely,
Phyllis A. Sherman
Mariah S. Geroulis
Phyllis A Sherman

Rik & I are sorry to hear about your loss. I only met Katie once, but everyone always spoke of her in such high regards that I knew she was a great person. Our thoughts are with you.
- Heather Brown
Heather Brown

Dearest Fred, I know I speak for the entire Rogin family when I say how much Katie will be missed. You both shared and contributed so much. Continue on in her memory. Love, Anne
Anne Geer

Everyone is special but Katie was one of a kind. She had a vibe that put you at ease when you met her and could settle down a contentious group just be walking into the room. She had a perfect balance of warmth and fire, strength and gentleness. She seemed to have an effect on everyone she met and I"m privileged to have known her. Thanks, Katie.
Ron Dolce

dear grandmaster fred,Sorry for your loss.my prayers and thoughts are with youand your family.master dan spears
master daniel spears

Dearest Katie. Powerful angel. With your very presence connected with all of us so fully and deeply. Willed us each to see ourselves in the most special light. Gave yourself as paragon of how to teach and heal. Thanks to Fred for sharing you.
Lucila Espedido

Dear Grandmaster Fred Degerberg,
I am sorry to hear of our loss. Training at the academy with all the legends are some of the best memories in the martial arts that I have. Everyone is so hospitable. This type of ettiquette is rare in a city setting. I remember Katie so helpful and a wonderful expample of service to others. It"s clear the staff follows her fine example. My thoughts & prayers of comfort are with you during this difficult time.
Ray Shure, Full Instruct

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU FRED. MAY GOD BLESS YOU, RENEE(ERIKA"S COUSIN)
Renee Quail

Mr. Degerberg, please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. May God give you the strength to endure these tough times, my prayers and wishes are with you. God Bless. Respectfully Zulfi Ahmed
Zulfi Ahmed

Sir,
Please accept my condolences, My thoughts are with you.
Randy Reid

Uncle Freddie,
I am so sorry. I love you and miss you. My prayers are with you.
Erika Degerberg

With my utmost respect and deepest sorrow may i extend my condolences to the entire DAMA family, especially to you Fred. I feel blessed that I have had the honor and the pleasure to be considered a friend. Katie will be missed certainly, but never forgotten. We love you both very much.
Jerry Fett

Words can not express the loss of an Angel like Katie, Judy,Alexis and I grieve her passing, but feel blessed to have had her as a friend. She is the sweetest most loving person we have had the pleasure of knowing. We will miss her but know she is with God and in His loving care. Our prayers go out to you Fred and you know BBB, Judy and Alexis love you , God Bless You , Greg,Judy and Alexis Tearney
Greg Tearney

Our deepest condolonces to you Grand Master Degerberg. You and Katie have always made us feel like part of the Degerberg family. We will think of her sweet smile, kind demeanor and great sense of humor.We now have another angel watching over us.Our family was very lucky to have known her and for having you both as friends and mentors.
Robby, CK and Taz Johnson

Dear Sir, I have been out of the fold for quite a while, and just got the news. I am deeply sorry. Rob and I will never forget how several years ago Katie reached out to our family when we had some difficulties, even though she wasn"t well herself. She was always good to be around, which is something few of us achieve. Please accept our love and condolences.
Meredith Yolles

Fred,
Katie was the ideal Yin to your Yang. She was worldly and wise and had a wonderful, welcoming spirit every time I saw her. I know she will sadly missed, which is a testament to her time among us.
With the deepest condolences and respect,
John Graden

The world will not be the same without you. May the Angels be with you and yours forever...
A. Rafa Ram

Dear Fred, I remember the first time I mate Katie and you at the Bake Shop Cafe in Lincoln Square when you were planning your martial arts" studio. So much excitement in developing your dreams. Then years later ending up as a new yoga teacher at the studio. Katies" support and encouragement was deeply felt. Her powerful influence, her gentle caring ways are remembered and held in my heart. Your loss is deeply felt. My prayers and love to you and yours. Lillian
Lillian Irene Lovas

There are many measures to a life...yours was full of anything but common experiences. You gathered friends who loved you from all walks of life and the beauty you walked with continues to touch us and flower in our hearts. You can visit me anytime in my dreams. We loved your visits to Healing Earth....
Dawn Silver and Michael Wisniewski

Master Dergerberg,
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Katie was a wonderful person and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jim and Kim Andrello

I"m so very sorry. My deepest sympathy and condolences go out to you at this time. I will call you soon.
Rick Herbster

GM Fred: Expressing our sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. -With love and respect from all of us at USA Martial Arts Arizona.
John Nottingham

Fred, I just learned about Katie. You and Katie have been, and always will be, in my prayers. Think of you both all the time.God bless you.
Stephen Markovich

Dear Fred,
I had subscribed to your newsletter some time back to keep up and it occurred to me that I hadn"t seen any news for a while. So, I just learned about Katie this morning.
I am so sorry. I"m stumped as to what to type because a flood of old memories just came roaring back.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and I"ll pass this along down here. I"ll make sure to resubscribe to your newsletter before I leave this site. You guys take care of yourselves and God bless you, Fred.
John Bultmann

My heart is broken to know Katie is no longer here. Back in the late 80"s when I was just 15, I joined the academy. Both Katie and Fred helped me thru some tough times and treated me as a daughter. Katie"s care and strength has made me such a better person now and I attribute it to her. I will miss you greatly. Rest in Peace.
April (Shah) Cobb