Catherine "Katy" Louise Wamel-Petermeier

Catherine “Katy” Louise Wamel-Petermeier

Katy was born November 2, 1975 in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2025, at the young age of 49 at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona. She had been battling cancer for the past year. Her infectious positive attitude, shimmering smile, joyful laughter, and pure kindness towards everyone will definitely be missed by her family and many friends.

Although Katy was born in Las Cruces, she grew up in the small towns of Animas and Playas, New Mexico. She attended school in Animas and participated in volleyball, basketball, and track. In her high school years, she excelled in volleyball, earning her a scholarship to Trinidad Junior College where she received her associate’s degree. She later attended New Mexico State University, graduating with a bachelor’s in business marketing.

After graduating, Katy was employed by several medical institutions (marketing or director positions) though her true talent was entrepreneurship – conjuring up new and creative ideas with no fear. She successfully started two new medical businesses. During this time, she was also involved in many different community organizations helping however she could.

On March 19, 2005 Katy was married to the very lucky Alex Petermeier, and soon after they started a family of three boys, Keaton (19), Brock (15), and Zane (13). FAMILY was Katy’s true purpose, passion, treasure, and her greatest love in life. She was the center, the driving force, the bright light during the darkest times, always there to comfort, encourage, support, not just for her boys, but all her family and friends.

Katy is survived by her husband Alex Petermeier and three sons: Keaton, Brock and Zane; her parents, Van “Skip” Martin Wamel and Connie Wamel, one brother, Van Wamel (wife Susan); two nieces, Jayde Talbot and Jordyn Wamel; one uncle and two aunts; Steven Wamel (wife Teresa), Susan Pierce; and all of her extended family.

All family and friends are welcome to join us for a Celebration of Life at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 5:30PM.

In lieu of flowers please donate to cancer warriors or St. Jude's