Kathryn McMonagle, age 80, died after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy of intellect, advocacy, and deep devotion to family.

At her best, Kathryn was vibrant and fully engaged with the world around her. She possessed a sparkling intellect and a deep curiosity about life. Highly intelligent and thoughtful, she loved to read, to write, and to stay current—always interested in ideas, conversations, and the broader world. She brought insight and perspective into the lives of those around her, often quietly, always generously.

Family was at the center of Kathryn’s  life. She treasured her connections—with her children, grandchildren, sisters, and extended family—and took genuine joy in time spent together. She was especially proud of her role as a mother and grandmother, roles she embraced with intention, love, and fierce commitment.

Kathryn also loved music and movement. Music was a constant companion—jazz, classical, country rock, and everything in between—and she loved to dance, finding joy and expression in rhythm and sound.

Beyond her family, Kathryn was deeply proud of her advocacy and the work she did to support women. She mentored, encouraged, and stood beside many young women and women within her family, offering guidance, strength, and belief when it mattered most. Her influence reached far beyond what could ever be measured.

Kathryn lived with purpose, intellect, and heart. She will be remembered for her love of learning, her passion for justice, her devotion to family, and the steady, meaningful ways she lifted others.

She is survived by her daughters; Lisa (Michael) of Florida and Alicia McMonigal; her sisters, Mary Ellen Ritt of Florida, Patti (Tom) Frazer of White Bear Lake and Shelly Kuhn of N. St. Paul. She is preceded in death by her husband Medcaw and sister Marie Jeanne Ranallo.

She will be deeply missed and always remembered.