Julie Suzanne Kathan, 54, of Federal Way, died Sunday, December 16, 2012, of brain cancer. Julie was born in Pensacola, Florida, on July 25, 1958. She spent the majority of her youth in Miami, Florida, until she moved to Washington when she was 23. There she met her husband and soulmate, Jeff Kathan. They were married on February 26, 1988. They have two daughters, Brittni, 24, and Dayna, 22, and one step-daughter, Brandee, 30.

Julie was well known in the Federal Way community through her work as a real estate agent. She was vivacious and loved sunshine and wearing high heels, no matter what season it was. She loved music and could recite any lyrics she had heard at the drop of a hat. Her smile lit up the room and she had an infectious laugh. Julie loved to dance and did so often. She loved her three longhaired Chihuahuas – Rocky, Coco, and Chachi. Julie was a passionate woman, who cared deeply about her family.

She is survived by her husband Jeff; her daughters Brittni and Dayna Kathan; her step-daughter Brandee Kathan; her mother Ruby Forehand; and her brother David Padgett. There will be a private service on the morning of Saturday, December 22, 2012, followed by a public service from 3:30-6 p.m. at the Temple Theater located at 47 Saint Helens Ave. Tacoma, Washington.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to HEADRUSH a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a cure for brain cancer (headrushwisconsin.org).

“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” –The Beatles