Katherine Louise Daw

Katherine Louise Daw, 96, passed away peacefully in Albuquerque, NM, on August 12, 2025. To most, she was always Louise. She was born on June 25, 1929, to Katherine and Clifford Ramsdale.

Louise grew up in Columbus City, IA, Fresno, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, in a spiritual, musical family with her three siblings. During her childhood she learned to play the piano, which she enjoyed throughout most of her life. Her father's career as a Presbyterian minister significantly impacted Louise. She dedicated many years to the Presbyterian Church in the role of a deacon, sang in the choir, as well as performed in the bell choir.

At the Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles, Louise discovered a deep passion for literature, which guided her towards majoring in English and Education at Monmouth College, IL. After graduation she followed her dream to be a teacher, which concluded after thirty years of public school service. Within this time, she earned a Master's Degree in Education..

Louise met Edwin W. Daw at Monmouth College and the two were married on June 16, 1951. Louise and Ed raised two daughters, Debbie and Joan, in Riverside, IL. She was a loving mother who unknowingly modeled independence, determination, passion, and a zest for learning. These qualities manifested often, but particularly with her desire to learn to ski, play tennis, and golf with her friends and family. Besides these qualities, Louise also inspired her daughters. Debbie became an ordained Unity minister, and Joan became a career public school teacher and principal. Besides her many interests, Louise loved family vacations, especially in the Rocky Mountains.

Throughout her life, Louise cultivated numerous long-lasting friendships with her infectious smile, laughter, and embracing personality. She loved to dance, and she made her own clothes in order to have the perfect outfit. Playing bridge became a favorite social pastime. In her final years, she loved the challenge of word puzzles.

Louise is predeceased by her parents, husband Edwin, and brother Joseph Ramsdale. She is survived by her two daughters, Debbie O'Connor, Joan McQuade and husband Mark, two sisters, five grandchildren, and one great granddaughter; and many nieces & nephews.

We would like to thank Manzano del Sol Senior Living, Beehive Four Hills Assisted Living, and Presbyterian Hospice for the care and support they offered Louise in her later years. We would especially like to thank Carolyn Sena, her long-time caregiver, for her never ending love and compassion.

A service honoring the life of Louise Daw will be held on Tuesday, September 16, at 1:00 p.m. at Unity Spiritual Center, 9800 Candelaria Road, Albuquerque.