Katherine Andrea Dudek

Katherine Andrea Dudek, 35, died on September 16, 2019 in Atlanta, GA. Katie was born on August 15, 1984 to Thomas Dudek and Allyson Cox in Bangor, Maine. Katie graduated from Messalonskee HS in Oakland, ME and studied at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, MA. She was known and loved for being unapologetically herself, and by example, helped many others find the courage to do the same. Katie was an artist in every sense of the word. She enjoyed catching eyes with her colorful hair, funky clothing and jewelry, and her silliness and eccentricity. Much of the time her clothing and jewelry were of her own making. She poured countless hours into artistic creations for the family and friends she loved. Katie also loved animals of every shape and size, including cats, hamsters, and on one particular occasion, a snake that got lost in her apartment and is probably still tormenting the neighbors. From the time Katie was in junior high, she exhibited a deep-rooted sadness that never went away. She struggled with depression and addiction issues for most of her adult life. Her family and friends will forever miss her laughter, compassion, and creative spirit, but we pray that she is at peace now and no longer in pain. Katie is survived by her parents, Tom Dudek (Laura) and Allyson Cox, her brother Jason Dudek, her sister Elizabeth Musacchio (Jeffrey), her grandmother Janice Cox, several nieces and nephews, and a large extended family. She is also survived by a very special friend, Herbert Fritz III. Memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date. To honor Katie’s memory and to help others who struggle with similar issues, a fund is being set up in her honor at Camp Mechuwana. Donations to Katie’s fund will be used to support the needs of campers with mental illness. Donations can be made online at mechuwana.org or by mailing check to Mechuwana, P.O. Box 277, Winthrop, ME 04364.