Celebration of Life

Waconia, MN - Catherine Mary Warner—known to most as Katie, to her grandkids as Meemaw, and to just about everyone as a Baking Extraordinaire—passed away on April 14th, 2025, surrounded by friends, family, and a whole lot of love.

Though she was born and raised in Edina, MN, Katie's heart beat to the rhythm of the whole world. Her adventures stretched from Japan to Egypt and far beyond, always chasing beauty, culture, and connection. She packed light—just the essentials (kidding): and always came prepared with a smile that opened more doors than any phrasebook ever could.

She was a master of hospitality, a second mom to many, and the kind of person who made everyone feel instantly at home—whether you were family, a friend, or just someone lucky enough to pass through her kitchen.

Preceded in death by Father, Raymond Martin, Katie and Stephen were married for 35 year and raised two sons, Chadwick and Nicholas Warner with unwavering love, and more recently shared her life with partner, Rory Merlino.

Her home was filled with laughter, good food, and a rotating cast of very spoiled pets—three dogs and two cats who adored her (and her treats) just as much as the people in her life did.

Katie had a gift for silliness, a heart made for helping, and a way of turning even the simplest moments into something worth celebrating. She didn't take life too seriously—and maybe that's exactly why she lived it so well.

She made the world a softer, sweeter, funnier place—and it won't be the same without her.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Catherine, please visit our Tree Store.