Katherine Jane Small Elig

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She had an unwavering belief in those she loved and a gift for making each person feel valued, confident, and capable.

Katherine Jane Small Elig passed away peacefully early Saturday morning. She was born on December 4, 1934, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Katherine married Harold Elig and was the mother of six children. She devoted her life to her family, finding her greatest joy in the success and happiness of her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughters, Karen Garrett of San Juan Capistrano; Cynthia Kallmeyer of San Diego; Dawn Marchinke of Murrieta; Margaret Elig-Leone of Los Angeles; and her son, Daniel Elig of Molalla, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her son, Jerome Elig.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Rachel Garrett, Robert Swesey, Stephanie Cramer, Raymond Kallmeyer, Ryan Fox, Dalton Paceno, Madison Leone, and Santino Leone, as well as four great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her brother, Marvin Small, and was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth Small.

She will be remembered for her calm, loving, and supportive nature. She raised her children to be strong and independent, always offering encouragement without judgment. She had an unwavering belief in those she loved and a gift for making each person feel valued, confident, and capable.

Her family was her greatest pride and joy. Though she will be deeply missed, her kindness, quiet strength, and unconditional love will continue to guide those who knew her. She will live on in the lessons she taught, the values she instilled, and the memories her family will always cherish.