Katherine Schell

Madison - Katherine "Kati" Marie Schell, age 37, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2011 at Meriter Hospital surrounded by her family and friends. She was born on June 11, 1974 to Ronald Schell and Kathleen (Candiello) Schell in Houston, Texas. She grew up in Albany, New York, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and here in Madison. She graduated from Madison Memorial High School in 1993 and from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1997 with a degree in social work. She had a deep commitment to the disadvantaged here in Madison and took up a banner first with Head Start and then in 2004 became a housing specialist for the homeless at the YWCA's shelter on the square where she worked until her death. She was an aggressive advocate for her clients and pushed them as hard as she did housing and service providers. With her quick wit and outgoing personality she brought joy to all those with whom she came in contact. In addition to her daytime responsibilities, she enjoyed catering and bartending at a variety of facilities in Madison and quickly developed a following wherever she chose to work. Kati is survived by her parents, identical twin sister Valerie, older sister Kristin and younger brother Nicholas in addition to many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 16, 2011 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison with a reception immediately following at the Marquis Ballroom, 6220 Nesbitt Road in Fitchburg. The family would appreciate if all would bring a favorite picture of Kati to the service on Sunday, to contribute to memory albums. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the YWCA - Housing Program, 101 E. Mifflin Street, Madison, WI 53703.