Kathy Van Liere, 82, of Broomfield, Colorado, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025. Born in Denver on November 16, 1942, she was the beloved wife of David Eugene Van Liere for over 61 years, having married on January 26, 1964.

Kathy dedicated more than 25 years to education, teaching Spanish, German, and Russian at the high school level, concluding her career at Wheat Ridge High School. Her passion for languages reflected her love of connecting with people and exploring the world. She and Dave traveled extensively together, making more than 10 trips to Europe, as well as journeys to South America, Africa, and Australia. Africa held a special place in her heart, though she cherished their time in Europe, particularly Germany.

For over 40 years, Kathy was an active member of a German cultural group, and she occasionally engaged in political advocacy. Everyone who met her was touched by her kindness, thoughtfulness, and genuine interest in others. Her favorite childhood memories were of growing up on her family's ranch in Evergreen, gazing at Black Mountain.

Kathy's greatest achievement was not built on wealth, prestige, or status, but on love. Growing up in a difficult family situation, she didn't know what a healthy, functional family looked like. However, during a trip to Europe with her Aunt Mick, she witnessed two people being kind, thoughtful, and loving to one another, and she decided that such a life was possible for her. When she met Dave, who had grown up in that kind of loving household, they quickly fell in love. Through her own conscious choice and determination, Kathy transformed the trajectory of her life, creating for her children the loving home she had never known. Today, her children and grandchildren live lives filled with love because of the foundation she and Dave built together.

Kathy is survived by her devoted husband David; her sons Dean Van Liere and Kevin Van Liere; and several grandchildren who were the light of her life.

A celebration of Kathy's life will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hope House Colorado in her memory.