In Loving Memory of Kathryn Mary Oberst

Kathryn (Katie) Mary Oberst, age 40, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away on April 15, 2026. Born December 1, 1985, Katie was a woman of remarkable strength and a creative spirit that resonated like the music she loved so dearly.

Though disabled since the age of one, Katie never let her circumstances define the boundaries of her world. She led a full and vibrant life driven by an enduring love for the fine arts and travel. Katie's life could be defined by her connection to song; whether she was singing in a choir or attending a concert, music was her greatest joy. When she wasn't singing, she was often found writing or lost in a book, fueled by a lifelong love of reading.

One of the most cherished highlights of Katie's life was a recent trip to Paris. Spending a week in the City of Light with her mother and sister was her ultimate wish--a dream fulfilled that served as a beautiful testament to her adventurous heart.

Katie's memory will be carried on by her father, Lawrence Oberst, and mother and stepfather, Kimberly and Frank Shelanskey. She is also survived by her older sister, Sara Oberst, and nephew, Elliot Erlbaum; her older brother, David Oberst, his wife Nicole, and niece, Claire Oberst; and her stepsister Jeanne Rietter, her husband John, and nephew Marshall Haskamp. She leaves behind a community of friends and extended family who will forever miss her voice, her resilience, and her kind heart.

Services will be held on Monday, April 20th at 11:00am at Ada Bible Church, 2045 68th Street SE, Caledonia. Visitation will precede the services at 10:00am.

Donations in Katie's honor can be made to Wings of Hope Hospice https://wingsofhopehospice.com/donate/ or the East Kentwood High School Drama Department:

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