Saratoga Springs, NY - Katie Hawthorne passed away quietly in her sleep May 1, 2021. Beloved daughter of Gerard and Brenda Hawthorne, she was born October 20, 1978 at Saratoga Hospital. Katie was one of God's miracles, a ray of light that shone brightest around her family and anyone who got to spend time with her. She touched so many lives with her warm loving smile and her loving heart. Her strength was our strength from the moment she graced her presence into our lives.

An Angel on Earth. Being born with Down's Syndrome at first was scary and quite the challenge for us. We worked with her as did family and friends tirelessly to make a loving and positive atmosphere. Bumps along the way did not stop us from our goals. Health issues led to many surgeries over time. At 11 months old she had open heart surgery to repair holes in her heart. During recovery she had passed away in our arms only to be revived by the Albany Medical staff. Several pace makers were also installed over the years.

She was reading and writing by the age of 5 and was mainstreamed in school and was the first child with Down Syndrome to walk across the stage at SPAC with the graduating class from Saratoga Springs High School. She was an avid swimmer and won many medals, which included Gold Medals at the New York State Games.  She also loved bowling, movies and spending many hours hanging out with friends at dances and parties.

Over the years Katie was involved in the County Day Hab Program and worked several jobs including clerical worker, laundry room at Sheraton Hotel, YMCA in Malta and the Saratoga County Animal Shelter. She was the #1 Beatles Fan if there ever was one. All things Beatles was her passion but also enjoyed many types of music. She also enjoyed reading. Her biggest passion though, was spending time with her family, her wonderful friend Sandi as well as so many holiday gatherings with loved ones. Katie went on many family vacations over the years. Most memorable being all together on a family trip to Las Vegas and a month long road trip to Florida with many site seeing stops along the way. What especially made it special was her three younger brothers flying down to Florida and joining us for a week.

Her brothers Daniel, Shane and Travis were such a big part of her life. She was also survived by many loving Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

Katie had a wonderful life surrounded by so many who loved her. She has left us with so many great memories that we will cherish forever. Though she will be missed we know she is at peace in Heaven with her grandparents, Kate and Blondie Hawthorne, Tom and Jean Lloyd as well as her favorite Beatle John Lennon.

Relatives and friends are invited to call from 4-6 PM on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518-584-5373).

Shine on our Beautiful Girl. Forever in Hearts!