FAYETTE/WATERLOO — Katherine "Kathy" Ann Lincoln Sigrist, 68, passed away Monday (May 20, 2024) at home with her loving family by her side.

In keeping with Kathy's wishes, there will be no calling hours or service. A celebration of life will be 1 PM to 4 PM Saturday (June 15) at the home she loved, 3589 Yost Rd., Waterloo, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Seneca County House of Concern, 22 Locust St, Waterloo, NY 13165 or United Way of Seneca County, 19 Cayuga Street, Second Floor, Seneca Falls, NY 13148.

Kathy was born August 28, 1955, in Buffalo, NY, the daughter of Rev. M. Edward and J. Carol Bassett Lincoln. After high school, she followed her life-long dream of being a teacher and earned her Associate's Degree in Education from Cazenovia College, a Bachelor's Degree in Education from William Smith College, and a Master's Degree in Special Education from Nazareth College. Kathy first worked as a teacher aide in the Waterloo Central School District prior to taking on the role of special education teacher for Geneva City School District, for 23 years. She retired in 2010. Her love for her students was evident in her outstanding efforts to ensure each child felt cared for, and her ability to connect with those that had lacked the guidance and support they were searching for. Kathy continued her passion for teaching after retirement by supporting adults in their endeavor to earn their High School Equivalency diploma at Finger Lakes Community College and tutored students working through middle and high school, often finding creative ways that helped them learn. For a brief time, Kathy served as Executive Director of Seneca County Literacy Volunteers, where she took pride in her efforts but encountered resistance to change.

Kathy not only dedicated her life to her students but also supported her husband's dream of owning and operating Nugent Hardware and Rudolph & Co. in downtown Waterloo, solidifying her place and establishing her active participation within the community. She was a former Seneca County 4-H leader, past President of the Waterloo Rotary Club, and a five-time Paul Harris Fellow. She served on the Celebrate Commemorate (Memorial Day) Committee, and most recently enjoyed actively serving on the Boards of Directors for the House of Concern and MOZAIC.

Kathy was an avid sewer, making creative gifts for family and friends, and most recently enjoyed the freedom she felt on her e-bike. She loved having friends and family in her home and was known for delicious cooking and even better baking. Her raspberry pie was loved by all and won top prize, facing a bidding war at the Seneca County Fair! She enjoyed spending time in Vermont, both as a child at her grandparents' lodge and over the years with family in Stowe.

The family would like to thank the care team, and in particular Carolyn, on 2 West at Thompson Memorial Hospital in Canandaigua, NY, who cared for her with great attention and compassion during her final stay.

Kathy is survived by her loving husband, William H. Sigrist of Waterloo, NY; son Michael Sigrist of Waterloo, NY; daughter Erin Sigrist of Essex, VT; mother J. Carol Lincoln of Horseheads, NY; brothers Edward (Erin) of Pittsford, NY, and Tim (SueAnn) Lincoln of Waterloo, NY; several nieces; six special grand-nephews; and one very special grand-niece, Arianna.

She was predeceased by her father; and a close aunt, Ruth Carlson.