In loving memory of Katharina (nee Sehr) Prugel, who gracefully touched the hearts of all who knew her. Born on July 9, 1933, in Aurelheim, Romania, Katharina brought warmth and joy into the world as the daughter of Anton and Magdalena (nee Wiesner). Her journey in life came to a peaceful close on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Katharina's warmth and kindness illuminated the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Katharina was a devoted wife to her late husband, Heinrich Prugel, and a nurturing mother to her beloved daughters, Lori (Bob) Prugel-Decher and Susie (Bob) Prugel-Johnstone. Her role as a grandmother, or "Oma," was one she cherished deeply, and she showered love upon her grandchildren: Lindsey (Brett) Hambrick, Tony Prugel, Kim (Pat) Sinnard, and Heather (Chris) Hayes. She took great pride in being an "Uhr Oma" to her five treasured great-grandchildren: Colton, Carson, Jackson, Joey, and Nathan. Katharina shared a special bond with her dear brother, John Sehr. Her unyielding love for her family radiated through every moment they spent together, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and cherished memories that will echo through generations.

During WWII, in September of 1944, Katharina with her mom and brother left their home in Aurelheim with what they could take with them because the Russian army was advancing.  They traveled by train, truck, and ferry through Romania.  The travel through Yugoslavia was very dangerous and luckily no one was hurt.  Entering Hungary provided some hope as farmers harvesting fruit gave the people on the train baskets of grapes.  They arrived in Germany 10 days after they left home.  They endured moving from city to city, bombs, and very little to eat.  In 1952, the family was finally granted the ok to immigrate to the United States.

Katharina dedicated much of her life to caring for her family before she began her career as a seamstress at McAlpin's and Dillards in 1973, where she poured her creativity and passion into her craft for 25 years. Her meticulous craftsmanship and keen eye for detail brought joy to countless individuals. She was not only skilled with a needle and thread but also deeply involved in her community as a cherished member of the Donauschwaben. Her passion for participation led her to join the Ladies Auxiliary Group, where she served at the Treasurer and joined the Trachten Dance Group, expressing her love for her heritage where her spirited contributions brought people together as she contributed her talents of cooking to help cater for weddings and used her seamstress talents to create countless outfits for various celebrations, reflecting her commitment to her Donauschwaben community.

To honor her memory, a visitation will take place at Donauschwaben Reception Hall on December 6, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, where family and friends will come together to share their cherished memories of Katharina. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Little Flower Church on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM, In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Donauschwaben Youth Group or Affinity Hospice in Katharina's honor. As we celebrate her life, let us carry her spirit of love, community, and kindness in our hearts forever.

Katharina's love for her family and friends was evident in every aspect of her life. The laughter and love she shared will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were touched by her spirit, and her memory will be celebrated through the stories and smiles she inspired.