Kathryn "Kathy" Yvette (Ortiz) Paredes

Kathryn Yvette (Ortiz) Paredes, age 56, passed away on January 9, 2021, due to complications from COVID.

Kathy was born on February 20, 1964 to Arthur and Teresa Ortiz in Aurora, Colorado. Her early childhood was spent in New Mexico before moving to Topeka. Kathy always loved to claim her birthplace of Aurora as her real home.

Kathy worked at Hallmark for many years. Most recently, she worked at the YMCA daycare at Jay Shideler. She loved being around all the children there and they loved Ms. Kathy back. They brought her so much joy. She loved having people around and many of her children’s friends called her mom.

The love of her life was her four children, who survive her: Alex (Stacey) Gonzalez, Jaime Gonzalez, Carlos Gonzalez and Syera Paredes (German Garcia) all of Topeka, in addition her eight grandchildren: Madison, Jaden, Emma, Rhett, Aaliyah, Gabrielle, Iverson and Marzia. She is also survived by her siblings: Roseanna (Mike) Haugen, Arthur (Chellie) Ortiz and Monica Zarazua, as well as her father, Arthur Ortiz of New Mexico, and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Anthony Ortiz, and her mother, Teresa Ortiz.

Kathy had the heart of a lion and was the strongest person we know. She never gave up. The family ask that you wear purple the day of her service, even if you are unable to attend. It would make Kathy smile.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M., followed by a Rosary at 10:30 A.M. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 A.M., all at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home to help offset expenses. Contributions can be left or mailed to the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit Kathy’s memorial webpage at www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6^th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.