Obituary of Kathryn Baumgarten

Baumgarten, Kathryn “Kay”

Bay City, Michigan

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, Shirley Kathryn Moss Baumgarten, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at McLaren Bay Region, at the age of 90.

Shirley, known affectionately as Kay, was born on December 6, 1934, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Paul and Ruth (Walsh) Moss. She grew up in Saginaw and graduated from St. Mary Cathedral High School. She went on to attend Michigan State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Kay was also an active member of Chi Omega Sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships that she cherished throughout her life.

After graduation, Kay returned to Saginaw and began her teaching career at Fuerbringer Elementary School. She later met Albert Baumgarten III, fell in love, and married him on December 26, 1959. Together, they raised their four children, creating a loving and supportive home.

Kay was a faithful member of St. Dominic Parish-St. Stephen Catholic Church. She worked for many years at Jacobsons and Talbots, where she built lasting relationships with both coworkers and customers. Kay also spent cherished time at the family cottage in Point Lookout, Au Gres, where she made countless memories with family and friends.

Kay had a kind and caring spirit, always eager to help others. She devoted much of her time volunteering for St Mary’s Hospital Gift Shop, The Children’s Free Ward Association at St Mary’s Hospital, the Assistance League of Saginaw and she was a member of the Junior League. Kay enjoyed many years in Garden Club V. An avid sports fan, she passionately followed football and basketball, particularly cheering for Michigan State, Notre Dame, and all Detroit sports teams.

Kay's warmth, generosity, and vibrant presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her including her children: Michael (Terri) Baumgarten and Mary Baumgarten; her beloved grandchildren: Mike, Nick, Aaron, Alyssa, Brandon, Briana and Jaclyn; sister, Patricia “Pam” (Neil) May; several nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Baumgarten III; daughter, Julie Baumgarten; son, Patrick Baumgarten; sister and brother-in-law, Judith (Jack) Mann; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jack (Barbara) Baumgarten.

SERVICE: A funeral liturgy for Kathryn will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 11, 2025 at St. Dominic Parish – St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1310 Malzahn St., Saginaw, MI 48602. Family and friends will gather at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Private burial of Kathyrn’s cremated remains will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Saginaw.

MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Michigan State University, https://givingto.msu.edu/ways-to-give.cfm or St. Dominic Parish – St. Stephen Catholic Church or a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. Saginaw, MI 48603. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com