Macalester student Katie Boyer died at her home in North Carolina on September 4. The cause was a rare blood disorder that she had since birth, but her death was unexpected. Katie was 20 years old.

Katie was born in Yokosuka, Japan but grew up in Carrboro, North Carolina. She planned to travel to Japan in the spring. A Japanese Studies major, she would have graduated in 2006. Her friends remember her intricate handmade clothing, her love of snowball fights and long walks, her collection of unusual hats, and her many books. Katie was proud of her black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Katie was loving and always compassionate. Her sense of humor and upbeat attitude earned her the admiration of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her many friends.

Katie is survived by her parents Vicki and Tom, her brother Michael, and her grandmother Johnnie.