If the suicide of Kate Spade did not cause her family grief enough, there was more in store.
The following statement was sent to the Kansas City Star at 2:58 p.m. on Thursday, two minutes before Spade’s funeral services were to begin at Redemptorist Church in Kansas City:
“We are deeply saddened to announce that Katy’s father, Earl F. Brosnahan, Jr. (Frank), passed away last night at age 89. He had been in failing health of late and was heartbroken over the recent death of his beloved daughter. He was at home and surrounded by family at the time of his passing.”
The obituary of Brosnahan’s daughter Katy, born Katherine Noel Brosnahan, lays out the arc of Spade’s illustrious career from her grade school days at Notre Dame de Sion to high school at St. Teresa’s Academy to her many successes in the world of fashion.
“To most of the world,” the obituary concludes, “she was Kate Spade, the beautiful embodiment of her brand and a glamorous cultural icon. Everyone knows of her global fame as a fashion designer responsible for the wildly popular and successful products that still capture the hearts and fancies of women everywhere.”
“Many women today recount their first experiences with the Kate Spade brand and the inspiration they drew from its namesake. However, there was so much more to Katy and her life. Those who knew her personally can share stories of a phenomenally loving, giving, humble, warm and affectionate woman who tragically left this world far too soon.”
“Katy’s determination was matched only by her generosity. Loyal almost to a fault, Katy could be counted on to support her friends and family in times of trouble without question or judgment.”
“Her sense of humor was one of her most enduring and charming qualities. Her quick and infectious laugh still resonates in the minds of all who knew her. Katy was always perceptive. She always aspired to put the best interests of others ahead of her own.”
“Katy will always be remembered lovingly for her conscientiousness and empathy. She loved animals. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter and sister. Katy was kind beyond words to describe. She will be dearly missed by those who knew her and by the millions she inspired.”