Rachel Kathryn "Kat" Wilkes Kaushagen

Rachel Kathryn “Kat” Wilkes Kaushagen, 44, of Beaufort, North Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at her home.

A memorial service to honor Kat’s life will be held at 4 p.m., Saturday, December 2nd at Munden Funeral Home in Morehead City, officiated by Rev. Jim Daub.

Kat was born on March 14, 1979, in Morehead City, North Carolina, to Richard and Linda Wilkes.
Growing up in Havelock, she attended and graduated from Havelock High School. Her passion for helping others led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University, where she honed her skills and deepened her understanding of criminal justice.

With kindness and dedication, Kat embarked on a career as a social worker for the State of North Carolina. Her expertise and empathy made her a valuable asset to the community, particularly as a juvenile court counselor. Her commitment to advocating for the well-being of others made a significant impact on the lives of numerous individuals and families.

Kat's warm and loving presence extended beyond her professional life. She was a devoted wife to her husband Matthew, with whom she built a life filled with love, joy, and companionship. Kat's unconditional love and support were the foundation of their relationship, creating a lasting bond that will forever be cherished. Together, they loved to fish and travel. Kat was also passionate about surfing, shelling, animals, and photography.

Kat was a compassionate and dedicated individual who touched the lives of many through her work and kindness.

Kat will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, Matthew Kaushagen; mother, Linda R. Wilkes of New Bern, NC;  brother, Ryan Wilkes and wife LeighAnn of LaCrosse, Wisconsin; father-in-law, Luke Kaushagen of Thief River Falls, MN; nephews, Clayton Wilkes and Lucas Moen; niece Emily Wilkes.

Kat was preceded in death by her father, Richard B. Wilkes; grandparents, Bo and Rachel Abernethy; grandmother, Ruth Wilkes Hagle; grandfather, Russell Wilkes; mother-in-law, Larae Kaushagen; and sister-in-law, Lona Moen.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to AIM at Melanoma Foundation, 5729 Lebanon Rd., Suite 144-305, Frisco, TX  75034.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.