Kate Hofstetter

In loving memory of Kate Hofstetter, who passed away suddenly at home on May 25, 2026, following a recent illness. She was 90 years old. Born on March 1, 1936, in Watervliet, Michigan, Kate was a cherished daughter of the late Walter Mathias "Nat" Smith and Ruth Helen Smith. She was predeceased by her parents and her beloved siblings, brothers Don, Jim, Dick, and Ken, as well as sisters Barbara and Beverly. Kate's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and dedication. She was a devoted wife to George "Pete" Hofstetter, whom she married in 1983, and before him, to Donald Roberts, whom she married in 1955. Her legacy of love continues through her children, James Roberts (Patrice), Dawn Roberts Stetka (Joseph), John Roberts (Wilma), and Michael Roberts (Katy), and her 17 grandchildren: Shannon Schaeffer, Matthew Stetka, Lindsay Stetka Pike, Claire Stetka, Pieter Roberts, Paul Roberts, Andrew Roberts, John Roberts, Benjamin Roberts, Sara Roberts, Keith Roberts, Nicholas Roberts, Dennis Roberts, and Lauren Roberts Kuehnert. Kate was also blessed with 20 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. Kate's sister, Natalie Hartstein, along with many nieces and nephews, survive her, cherishing the memories they created together. A proud graduate of Watervliet High School, class of 1955, Kate embarked on an incredible journey through life. She served her country with distinction as an army wife from 1958 to 1965, residing in Tokyo, Japan, and Heidelberg, Germany. Her experiences abroad enriched her life and broadened her perspective. Kate's professional life was as varied and vibrant as her personality. She worked as an editor of a local newspaper, a real estate agent, and a closing officer for a title company. Her passion for writing found expression in a monthly column for Discover Smith Mountain Lake magazine, where her creativity shone brightly. Kate's hobbies were a testament to her zest for life and her boundless creativity. She found joy in gardening, refinishing furniture, sewing, birdwatching, playing tennis, cooking, crocheting, knitting, and word games. Her love of nature and her incredible sense of humor brought warmth to all who knew her. Her family and friends will forever remember Kate for her kindness, her devotion to loved ones, and her unwavering love of life. Her warmth and personality touched everyone she encountered, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. A service to celebrate Kate's remarkable life will be held on May 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM. As we gather to honor her memory, we do so with gratitude for the time we shared and the love she generously gave. Kate Hofstetter lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for the beauty around her. Her legacy will continue to inspire and bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.