Kathryn Brandis

Kathryn Jane Brandis, 75, of Corvallis passed away on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Kathryn was the third child of Art and Mary Goldblatt. She grew up spending time between Tulelake, Calif., where her mother homesteaded a farm, and Corvallis, living downtown, where her grandparents, Agnes and Julian McFadden, owned and operated the Julian Hotel. While in Tulelake, Kathryn trained on the piano and played beautifully, a passion that continued through adulthood. Identifying with Saint Francis of Assisi, she loved animals, and was especially fond of horses and dogs. Kathryn was a 1954 graduate of Corvallis High School. She spent time as an airline stewardess, and enjoyed traveling. As an active citizen of Corvallis, she also served on the Corvallis City Council. Primarily, she was the innkeeper at the Madison Inn, the Jefferson Inn and the Brick House. At the Madison Inn, Kathryn hosted many people, including Linus Pauling and Father Daniel Berrigan, S.J. She hosted many weddings and anniversary parties, making lifelong friends in the process. Kathryn was a humanitarian, and took great interest in people. She welcomed all to her kitchen counter. She had a generous spirit, and was engaged with all walks of life. Expecting nothing, she would surprise a college student with a new bicycle, treat a happy couple to lunch, have special signs made for her friends’ properties, and host large Fourth of July parties welcoming all Corvallis families. She cared deeply about the people in her life. Kathryn lived a life full of faith and laughter. She singlehandedly raised her six children, and they were her priority and focus. She was a proud supporter of her children, fostering their endeavors and encouraging them to live their dreams. Kathryn is widely known, and will be sorely missed. Her family and friends will remember her sage advice and amazing sense of perception. Her contagious laugh will be fondly cherished by all who had the privilege to know her. Father Bliven will preside over the services at 11 a.m. Monday, April 4, at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish, 706 Ellsworth St. S.W. in Albany. A celebration of fond memories of Kathryn will take place at 1 p.m. at Sam’s Station, 1210 N.W. 29th St. in Corvallis. As was her way, all are welcome to Sam’s. Condolences can be sent in care of Paige Down, 4206 N.W. Palestine Ave., Albany, OR 97321. Donations can be made to Apron Strings, a grant for Corvallis High School graduates to provide assistance to young people with a vision to pursue their dreams. Donations can be sent to the address above.

Kathryn Brandis

February 25, 1936 - March 30, 2011