Katherine Grace Guinan

Katherine “Kitty” Grace Guinan was born November 7, 1951 to James and Lucille Hawkins in Seattle, Washington. Born during Leonid’s Meteor Shower was foretelling of the bright light that she would become for all those in the world who knew her. She grew up as the middle child of five in a travelling family, spending most of her early years in Yakima (WA), Honolulu (HI) and Kirkland (WA). Kitty graduated from Lake Washington High School,was elected Senior Class Secretary; and as the Annual staff photographer she began her life-long love of photography. She captured and catalogued many photos that will remain treasured memories for family and friends. Kitty earned her degree in Special Education from Washington State University. Teaching wasn’t just her career for over thirty years, it was her passion; she taught and inspired generations of children at Emily Dickinson and Thoreau Elementary in Kirkland. After retirement she devoted herself to volunteering in Special Education and was recognized with the Golden Acorn Award, granted to volunteers who provide exceptional service to children in a school community.

Kitty was united in marriage to Bob Guinan for 30 years until his passing in 2007. They shared birthdays one day apart and she was known for throwing him some amazing surprise parties. They were blessed with two children. They built and lived in one home on Lake Washington for their entire lives. They cherished their home and community. When they weren’t admiring the sunsets over the lake at home they enjoyed traveling. Hawaii was one of her favorite destinations; Kitty most recently had her seventieth birthday celebration on the Big Island. Her zeal for life was contagious and there was “never a bad day”. She loved walking, sipping her lattes, exploring the Pacific Northwest and spending time with her kids, her beloved granddaughters and many friends. To know Kitty was to know a loyal friend, a devoted sister and a loving mother and grandmother. She passed away peacefully on November 18th, 2024 in her home in Kenmore, her kids at her side. She had been courageously battling cancer for the last four years. Her family and friends gave their endless support and love during her journey. She is survived by her daughter Kristin (Marcus) Shoup, son Tommy (Robyn) Guinan, sisters Trudi Syferd and Heidi (Kevin) Stigile, and brothers Randy (Janet) Hawkins) and Scott (Gale) Hawkins). She has two granddaughters, Maizie and Lucy Shoup. Kitty was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Bob. She will be greatly missed but her legacy of strength, courage, love and friendship will live on forever.

There will be a celebration of her life held at The Lodge at St. Edward Park in Kenmore on Friday, February 21st from noon to 4 pm.

Please join us in wearing your favorite bright color to celebrate Kitty’s life. Speakers will start at 12pm with food and refreshments served afterwards.

Please bring your WA State Parking pass to park in the state park lots around The Lodge, otherwise, valet parking at The Lodge is available or daily or annual parking passes can be purchased on site.

Celebration: Feb. 21st, 2025 from 12:00pm-4:00pm in The Remington Room at The Lodge at St. Edward State Park, 14477 Juanita Drive NE, Kenmore WA 98028.