FIND AN OBITUARY
Service information is posted on our website only with approval from the family.
If you are seeking information not listed below, please contact us.
Kathryn Baumgarten
10/03/1938 — 02/05/2026
From West Richland, WA | Born in Adams City, CO
Kathryn Baumgarten
Kathryn (Kathy) Baumgarten was called home by her loving heavenly father on February 5th, 2026. She was born to Larry and Marie Sandberg October 3, 1938 in Adams City, Colorado. She attended 17 different schools before returning to her Adams City roots where she graduated from High School. She briefly attended Denver University before she fell in love with George Baumgarten. They eloped in 1957. They were both employees of DC Trucking.
They settled in Westminster, Colorado before moving their three children to Grand Junction, Co. Kathryn continued her education at Mesa College receiving an associate degree in applied science. She worked as a librarian for the school district.
In 1978 they moved to Richland, WA. to work for her brother who owned Tri City Fence. In 1981 Kathy and George opened Baum’s Candy. This was her lifelong dream, a job she loved so it was never work. George drove for BFT so she could afford her “expensive hobby”. They owned and operated it for 27 years. A tradition that carried on until 2024.
She liked to write about her experiences and left two unpublished books and several articles. Her passion was cooking, always trying new recipes with ideas for a cookbook. She enjoyed church, traveling, being a seamstress, painting, gardening, remodeling, bowling, plays, concerts, movies, sports, casinos, fine wines, good food and friendships. Any talents and possessions were gifts from God.
She is preceded in death by her parents, four brothers: Larry (Skip), Ronald, Howard and Andy. Her beloved husband, George, a son Jeff and a fiancé, Ken.
She is survived by her children, Brenda (Eric), Scot (Linda). Her daughter-in-law Donna. Nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and their extended family. She is also survived by her sister Tonia (Gary), several cousins, nieces, nephews and many wonderful long-time friends. Services to be held at Richland Lutheran Church on February 21st, 2026 at 11:00 AM. There will be a celebration of life at Kathy’s residence in West Richland, WA. following the service
She was a very special lady.
She will be missed.
RIP Kathy
Mrs.Baumgarten was a wonderful mother. Her children were my friends. I grew up with them feeling like family. Had many meals and sleep overs . She will always remain in my memories. RIP
I had the privilege of working for Kathy at Baum’s candy while I was in high school and during college breaks. I have such fond memories of Kathy and her family during my time there. We shared
lots of laughs! I will always hold a special place in my heart for Kathy.
Kathy was a joy to have on our Sr. Bowling team. She was a good bowler and had quick wit to keep up with the rest of our humor. We looked forward to being with her every week and she left a big hole when she was no longer able to attend. She will be missed by the other league bowlers & friends. Before Kathy sold her candy shop, my Aunt would give us choclates from her shop in Richland every year for Christmas. Later, Kathy would share her chocolates with her team mates also during the holidays. Rest In Peace to our dear friend.
Our dear friend Kathy stayed with us several times after we moved from the Tri-Cities to North Las Vegas. Such a dear, wonderful, special friend. We were addicted (especially) to her Dark B-52 Truffles. I ordered them by the dozens for the holidays — and days in-between, of course. She even made a batch for us at home to carry on the plane when she visited us. So delicious! We loved the chocolates, but we loved Kathy more. Such a gracious lady. As customers, we would chat as long as possible. As friends, we would relax, savor one another’s company, and enjoy wines and special foods. We shared October birthdays, and we will offer a special toast to you this October. Rest in peace.
Remember when her little candy shop was located in Westgate shopping area off of VanGiesen in Richland. The HAIR HUT girls were next-door and loved to stop over for a little snack and talk with Kathy. She had the best peanut brittle in the county. She also had classes at her shop, which was great. Bonnie,Jan,Lois and I really enjoyed her friendship too!
RIP Kathy. Condolences to her family. I remember how stopping by the shop in Richland many times over the years. I especially loved the caramels and the “turtles.” Really good chocolates. Great memories!
To say that we will miss you Kathy is an understatement! You have been a wonderful neighbor and a dear friend to us for many years. We have taken lots of trips, played lots of cards , laughed and drank lots of fine wine together🥰. And did I mention you made the BEST chocolates‼️ We are so thankful that you came into our lives‼️
Now we will cherish all these wonderful memories ♥️
Wth lots of LOVE and SYMPATHY ,
Levi and Aspasia
Guestbook for
Kathryn Baumgarten