Katherine "KT" Chaperon died September 24, 2014 in Kennewick. She was born aboard a ship in United States territorial waters off the coast of Mississippi on April 23, 1936. Her education began early. At the tender age of four, she started attending boarding school in Switzerland. She also attended boarding school in India. Her academic career included multiple undergraduate degrees as well as a PhD in Biochemistry and Microbiology. She also obtained an M.D. in Infectious Disease Control. She was employed by the Veterans Administration and various industrial companies as a consultant and manager in Safety, Health, Environment and Quality. She taught a graduate level course in Engineering Statistics at Louisiana State University and substitute taught in Baton Rouge, Louisiana public schools for several years. She read voraciously for pleasure on a wide range of subjects. Her mind was always active. Musically gifted, she played the violin, dulcimer and the sarod. Bridge, Pokeno and Mah Jongg fired her competitive spirit. Engaged and engaging, she was a people person. Family, friends and sometimes strangers were blessed by her friendly, open and welcoming spirit. She held strong opinions and a gentle heart. Those of us blessed to be touched by her spirit will miss her always. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, sister, and daughter Laura. She is survived by her brother Jeff; her husband of 31 years David O'Brien; daughters Carolyn Chaperon and Tamara (Doug) Coleman; son Thomas O'Brien; four grandsons; and several nieces and nephews. At her request, no special services will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.