Kate Lutrey, a self-described “troubleshooter” who helped countless students solve problems over her three decades at MSU Denver, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Two memorial services will be held: The first service will be held Friday, Nov. 16, at 3 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 9371 Wigham, Thornton 80229 (off the Thornton Parkway).  A second service for the campus community will be held Nov. 28 from noon to 1 p.m. in the King Center Recital Hall, room 130.

Lutrey was a single mother scraping to get by when she joined MSU Denver in 1982 as business manager of The Metropolitan student newspaper. She earned her diploma in journalism from the University in 1988 and she served as director of student media three different times. Lutrey also was executive assistant to the vice president of student services.

In her last role at MSU Denver before retiring this past summer, she served as concierge director, managing the information desk in the Student Success Building.

“My biggest loyalty is to the students at Metro,” she said in an interview earlier this year. “I can relate to them having been one, but I also can relate to them having struggles in life and in school. I really enjoy helping them by getting to the right place or by simply listening.”

“Kate’s student-centered attitude and professionalism made this a better place to work and learn,” says Emilia Paul, associate vice president for student engagement and wellness. “We are all grateful for her contributions and dedication.”

Yolanda Ortega, a former longtime administrator at MSU Denver and Ms. Lutrey’s former supervisor and friend, described her this way: “Kate was the ultimate leader! She loved her work at MSU Denver. She loved the students and wanted to just make their educational journey a truly meaningful experience.”

Please send cards to her family to: Tom Lutrey, 9190 Raleigh Place, Westminster 80030. Flowers or donations in Ms. Lutrey’s name may be sent to the Dr. Maestas Patient Assistance Fund, Clinica Tepeyac, 5075 Lincoln St., Denver, CO 80216.