Stephanie "Kat" Gatrost

Stephanie “Kat” Gatrost passed away on November 7, 2026, at the age of 34. Born on January 14, 1992, Kat will be remembered as a bright and outgoing soul who had a gift for making friends wherever she went. Her warmth, her lively spirit, and her deep love for others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Kat embraced life with enthusiasm and heart. She worked as a haunt actor at Waverly Hills Sanitarium, a role that reflected both her love of Halloween and her spirited personality. She found joy in animal welfare, thrift shopping, spending time in nature at Buttermilk Falls, and simply being with her friends. She was an animal lover, especially devoted to her cats, and her caring nature extended easily to both people and animals alike.

Among the things Kat held most dear were her family and the life she built with them. She was proud of being together with Hayden for five years, and she treasured the birth of her children, Amelia and Colton. Those closest to her knew how deeply she loved her family and how much happiness she found in sharing life with them.

She is survived by her husband, Hayden Gatrost; her children, Colton and Amelia, her mother, Katherine Riggs; her father, Steven Foster; her aunts, Tina Martin and Cassandra Merriweather; and her best friend, Delashawn. Each of them carries forward cherished memories of Kat’s laughter, friendship, and love, and each was blessed by the special place she held in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Christine Kaelin and Lillian Foster; her grandfather, Ralph Foster; and her son, Edward Leo. Their memories remained part of her story and part of the love that shaped her life.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on November 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Louisville, 10304 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40272. A funeral service will follow there at 4:00 p.m.

Stephanie “Kat” Gatrost will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her vibrant heart, her devotion to those she loved, and the joy she brought into the world. Her memory will remain a lasting comfort to her family and friends.