Katherine Renee Holcomb

The world became a little dimmer with the tragic passing of Katherine Renee Holcomb, 34, lovingly known as “Renee,” on June 17, 2026.

Born on September 11, 1991, Renee’s journey through life was one marked by joy, love, and a warmth that touched all who were fortunate enough to know her. Renee was the cherished daughter of Lawrence and Rosanne (Roberts) Holcomb. She was one of seven children and grew up in a happy home full of laughter and unwavering love. She loved her family, and her bond with all those she cared for was one of unconditional support and generosity.

Though the years were far too short, Renee’s life and legacy are remarkably bright. She graduated from Albert Lea High School in 2010 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing at Winona State University. She developed a love of nature and adventure and in the years after college traveled extensively while working across the country. Wherever she was, she shared photos on Facebook and Instagram [@freefallin11] showing the beauty of the world she saw while hiking, biking, snowboarding, mountain climbing, and more.

She made many friends along the way with whom she shared countless beautiful memories. She always gave perfect, meaningful gifts to share her love of life and had a unique authenticity that inspired and connected everyone. Her family has received a flood of messages from her friends, family, coworkers and classmates with stories of how special Renee was to them. Her family is blessed to know how much she meant to so many people and how many lives her spirit, smile and heart touched in her lifetime.

While words fall short in expressing the full depth of loss, the memory of Katherine Renee Holcomb’s kindness, resilience, love and humor remains ever-present. Those who grieve her passing take comfort in the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love and spirit of adventure that will echo in their hearts always.

Renee is survived by her loving parents, Lawrence and Rosanne Holcomb; her siblings: Amelia (Joseph) Holcomb Bliven, Lawrence Holcomb, Elizabeth Holcomb, Rachael Holcomb, Patrick Holcomb, and Evalyn Holcomb; her partner Eamon O’Leary; her nieces: Elena, Maya, Clara, and Lydia; and by her many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Lawrence Holcomb and Patricia Conety Printy of Granville, NY; and her maternal grandparents, Richard and Elizabeth Jessie Roberts of Granville, NY.

In honoring Renee’s memory, her family invites all who loved her to gather in remembrance and gratitude for the time they shared. A wake will be held on June 26, 2026, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Bonnerup Funeral Service, 2210 East Main Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007, with a prayer service followed by a time for sharing memories of Renee beginning at 6 PM. A funeral mass will be held at St. Theodore Catholic Church, 315 East Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007, on Saturday, June 27, at 10 AM, with a time for visitation beforehand beginning at 8:30 AM. Services will be streamed on Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Service’s website for those unable to attend in person. Following services Renee will be laid to rest in St. Theodore's Cemetery.

The livestream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Service.

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