Katherine “Katy” Smeltzer

Katherine “Katy” Smeltzer, 84, passed away on September 22, 2025. She was born in Covington, Kentucky, on February 21, 1941, to Paul and Dorothy Schulte. Katy was the beloved wife of the late Len Smeltzer, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage until his passing in 2021.

Katy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her children Melanie Lennon, Ann Smeltzer, David Smeltzer, and Carrie Katz; grandchildren Jeff Smeltzer, Michael Smeltzer, Shawn Smeltzer, Kaayla Allen, Talon Lennon, Conrad Smeltzer, Ben Katz, and Carson Katz; siblings Paul Schulte Jr., John Schulte DMD, and Cindy Schulte; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Len Smeltzer, her son Jeff Smeltzer, her sister Patricia Ernst, and her parents Paul and Dorothy Schulte.

Katy lived her life with elegance, humor, and a vibrant spirit. She found joy in bridge club, keeping up with the royal family, oil painting, camping, and traveling. Her favorite place in the world was Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she and Len created lasting memories rafting, hiking, and camping with their family.

To those who knew her best, Katy was the very definition of a mother—strong, caring, honest, and full of life. Her warmth and spunk will be deeply missed, but her love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Services will be held privately by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Autism Speaks in her memory.