Makenzie Rose Stixrud

With profound sadness yet immense gratitude for the beautiful life she lived, we announce the passing of Makenzie Rose Stixrud, a cherished soul whose warmth and joy touched everyone she encountered. Makenzie, fondly known as Kenzie, left this world far too soon on April 18, 2025, at the age of 29. She was born on October 18, 1995, in Madison, Mississippi, and spent her life soaring to great heights, both literally and figuratively. Kenzie was a beacon of light, known for her unwavering passion for aviation and her heartfelt dedication to her loved ones. She is now reunited in peace with her beloved parents, Karen Sue and James Michael Lake, and her dear sister, Abbie. Her legacy lives on through her devoted husband, Michael Ray Stixrud, her precious daughter, Madeleine, her sister, Abigale Lake, and her father-in-law, Tom Holt. Kenzie met the love of her life, Michael, in the most serendipitous of places—the Denver Airport—nine years ago. Their love story blossomed into a beautiful marriage on January 25, 2021. Together, they crafted a life filled with adventure and love, first in Dallas, Texas, and then in Puyallup, Washington. A proud graduate of Denver High School, Kenzie’s fascination with flight led her to serve her country with honor in the United States Air Force from 2014 to 2017. Following her service, she pursued her dream career in aviation, initially as a flight attendant with Frontier Airlines, then with American Airlines, and ultimately achieving her goal of becoming a captain with Southwest Airlines. Kenzie’s love for flying was rivaled only by her love for her family. She was the epitome of kindness and care, always exuding happiness and pride in her work. Her infectious smile and caring nature left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Kenzie also cherished her pink Barbie Jeep, a symbol of her vibrant spirit and a nod to the life she had always dreamed of living. In her spare time, Kenzie enjoyed taking to the skies in her cherished Cessna airplane, a testament to her lifelong passion for aviation. Her family is eternally grateful to the first responders with Central Pierce Fire for their assistance and to the entire team at Southwest Airlines for their unwavering support. Kenzie Rose Stixrud’s life, though brief, was filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and unbridled joy. She will forever be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend whose spirit continues to soar in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Kenzie’s honor, as a tribute to the generous and caring spirit that she embodied throughout her life. May Kenzie find eternal peace in the skies she loved so dearly.