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Kathe R. Shortner passed from this life into eternity with Our Lord at 1L:55am on December 24, 2019. She was able to celebrate Christmas in Heaven this year with her beloved Edward, her body now healed and whole. Kathe was born in Baden-Baden, Germany on February 20, 1935. Her early years were very difficult, having to live under the Nazi regimen. Her father was called into the German Army and was killed while serving on the Russian front when Kathe was only 14 years old. Her mother and siblings were left nearly destitute and Kathe helped support her family by working in a bakery. Many days the only food she had to eat was a piece of baked goods from that bakery. She worked other jobs as she grew up and finished her education but never forgot the early hard times and lived frugally, even when she could afford to "splurge" a little. In the years to come, she met her husband, Edward John Shortner of Karnes City, Texas while he served in the US Army, stationed in post-war Germany. Over the next year-plus, with his help and that of one of her girlfriends, Kathe learned enough English to communicate with Edward and their courtship blossomed. They were married on March 22,1963 in Germany and continued to reside there until Edward was transferred back to the US in 1966. Kathe became a US Citizen in June 1980 and, although always "German to the core",loved and truly appreciated her new country. They made many trips back to Germany over the years, both per military assignment and later on vacations to visit her family. Kathe was preceded in death by her beloved Edward, who passed from this Iife on January 2, 2016; her parents, Ernst Latzer and Frieda Heiland Latzer and siblings. Kathe is survived by their son, Anthony Glenn Shortner, born on May 17, 1954, and resides in New Braunfels, Texas. Kathe's biggest concern was always that Glenn would be well-cared for, that all his needs be met, and she conscientiously saw to it that he would be provided for when she left this life. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, James Shortner (Robbie) of Karnes City and two sisters-in-law, Annabelle Biemer (Fabian) of San Antonio and Henrietta Fenner of Karnes City and nieces and nephews. Kathe had resided at The Waterford Senior Community since June 2O17 and made many friends among other residents and staff. She appreciated the good care she received there and at Fresenius Dialysis Center. ln recent years, her best friend and "adopted" sister was Ann Parsons (David), who will miss her greatly but is happy to know that Kathe is now well and happy with God and Edward. An informal Memorial Service will be held at The Waterford on Thursday, January 2, 2019 at 2:00pm. Visitation will be 9am-11am on Monday, January 6th, 2019 at Mission Park North followed by a 1:00pm graveside service and interment at Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery.

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Kathe Latcer Shortner

February 20, 1935 - December 24, 2019