Katie B. Rocke, a beloved resident of Lakewood, Colorado, passed away on Monday morning, August 5, 2024. Born on December 18, 1946, in Port Sulphur, Louisiana, to Johnny and Ruby Brandt Burton, Katie’s life journey took her from the bayous of Louisiana to the majestic Rocky Mountains she so dearly loved.
Growing up in Port Sulphur, LA, Katie completed her grade school and high school education before moving to Hammond, LA. There, she pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University, earning a master’s degree in accounting. Her academic achievements laid the foundation for a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant. While in Louisiana, she married, later divorced, and was blessed with three children: Steve, James, and Ginger.
A pivotal moment in Katie Rocke’s life came during a vacation with friends in 1984 when she discovered the captivating beauty of Colorado. By 1989, she made Colorado her permanent home, embracing the outdoor lifestyle it offered. Katie was an avid hiker, camper, and snowshoer, finding immense joy in exploring the Colorado wilderness. Her dogs were her cherished companions on countless walks, and she felt deeply connected to everything the Colorado outdoors embodied. In her younger years, Katie’s passion extended to leading hikes and organizing group camping expeditions to Utah, Nevada, and various scenic locations throughout Colorado, sharing her love for nature with others.
Professionally, Katie Rocke excelled as a self-employed Certified Public Accountant. Her prior experience with the IRS proved invaluable in assisting her clients. She found fulfillment in her work and dedicated herself to her profession until the very end of her life, demonstrating her strong work ethic and commitment.
Katie was predeceased by her parents, Johnny and Ruby Brandt Burton, her sisters, Ruby Key and Elaine Armstrong, and her eldest son, Clinton Stephen (Steve) Raacke. She is survived by her brother David Burton (Judy), her sister Jean Burton (John), her son James Burton Raacke (Tammy), her daughter Ginger Raacke McKinney (Jeff), her grandchildren, Jacob Raacke, Sammy Raacke, Britney McKinney, Sarah McKinney, Lacy McKinney, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
In accordance with her wishes, Katie Rocke will not have a formal service. Instead, her children will honor her memory by setting her free in the Colorado mountains, a place she held so dear to her heart. Her spirit will forever resonate with the landscapes she explored and loved.
