Cordes

Katherine Carolyn (Rodiek) Cordes, better known as Katie to her family and friends, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 14, 2025, in Portland. Born on Sept. 7, 1933, in Fayette County, Katie lived a life marked by laughter, love, and a warm spirit that drew people to her.

Katie was the beloved matriarch of her family. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Ivan Cordes, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories. They were married for 71 years. Her legacy is carried on by her children, Gene Cordes and his wife Catherine, Nancy Knobles and her husband Gary, Cheryl Brown and her husband Wayne; her adoring grandchildren, Michael Appling and his wife Amy, Nicholas Brown and his wife Jenni, Kyle Cordes and his wife Amanda, Kathryn Simpson and her husband Chris; and her precious great-grandchildren, Hannah Emshoff, Bobbie Appling, Laynee Appling, Griffin Cordes, Penny Susan Cordes, and Alexander Simpson. Katie was also a treasured sister to Gladys Schmidt, Ruby Jergens, and Bernice Faye Hanath. She also leaves behind her beloved kitty, Itty Bitty.

After graduating from Fayetteville High School, Katie became a Navy wife. She spent many years dedicated to taking care of her husband and children. Upon Ivan’s retirement, Katie channeled her entrepreneurial spirit into becoming the self-employed co-owner/ operator of Cordes Corners in Warrenton. Her work ethic and friendly demeanor made her a well-known and respected figure in the community.

Katie’s interests were as rich and varied as her personality. She had an unwavering love for crocheting, solving crossword and word search puzzles, and could often be found enjoying her favorite television shows. She was recognized and received a special award at a Cattleman’s Association State Conference. Katie was also well known for her cookies.At the Cattlemen’sAssociation fund raisers, Katie’s cookies were auctioned off for high dollar amounts. She made dozens and dozens of cookies for some of the grandchildren’s weddings. “Granny’s Cookies” were a big crowd pleaser. She spent many hours crocheting afghans, baby afghans, prayer shawls, and Christmas stockings. Her sense of humor was infectious, and her friendly nature made her a joy to be around. Katie’s laughter was a common and comforting sound to all who knew her.

As someone who lived her life with a smile, Katie’s life can be summarized by a quote from Dr. Seuss that reflected her own outlook: “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” This simple yet profound sentiment encapsulates the joy with which she lived her life and the positive impact she had on those around her.

Katie’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, humor, and determination. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories and laughter she left behind.

Visitation will be from 1 - 7 p.m. at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The family will be present from 5 - 7 p.m. to share memories and honor the remarkable woman she was. Funeral services will be celebrated on Friday, April 25, 2025, beginning at 2 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Warrenton. Burial services will follow at Florida Chapel Cemetery. Her light and love will continue to guide and inspire her family and friends for generations to come.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Warrenton.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.