Obituary of Katie Diego Pittelkow Bunn

April 2, 2026

Katie…

A beloved wife, fur-mom, daughter, sister, and friend, Katie lived a life defined by adventure, unwavering faith, and a kindness that made everyone feel seen. She had a radiant smile that could light up any room, a reflection of the joy she carried and shared so freely with others. Whether someone had known her for ten minutes or ten years, Katie had a rare gift for making people feel valued, cared for, and truly important.

Katie embraced the world with an adventurous spirit, traveling to 36 countries in her short lifetime.  She sought out beauty in the unfamiliar and lived fully in each moment, always chasing experiences that deepened her connection to others. She lived for the sunshine, always finding time to pause and soak it in, reminding those around her to slow down and appreciate life’s simple, beautiful moments.

Katie’s strength showed in both her character and her competitive spirit. From playing basketball with the Rams in high school and in college at Georgia Tech, to homecoming tricycle races with her Phi Mu sisters, to winning volleyball championships in New York, she brought energy and determination into everything she did. She loved to compete, not just to win, but for the people and moments that came with it. Once she set her mind to something, there was no wavering.

As an industrial engineer, Katie brought that drive and care into her career with Anheuser Busch, where she made a meaningful impact across roles in import logistics, warehouse leadership in the Bronx, and innovation strategy. She was respected not only for her work ethic and determination, but for the way she showed up for the people around her, always leading with care.

Her faith was a cornerstone of who she was and shaped how she moved through the world. A devoted Catholic, Katie lived her beliefs with quiet strength and intention, from her time working at Georgia Tech’s Catholic Center to serving as a Eucharistic minister at St. Paul the Apostle in NY. Katie had a unique ability to help others trust in God’s plan, offering comfort and hope through life’s most difficult moments. She had a way of shining God's light just by being herself.

Katie had a natural ability to bring people together. She loved hosting, cooking, and creating spaces where friends and family could gather. A room filled with conversation and laughter was always where Katie wanted to be.

At her core, Katie was deeply devoted to her relationships. She was one of the most loyal people you could know, standing by her friends through every season of life with unwavering love. Her love for family was constant and deeply felt, from her early days as first mate on her family’s boat, to beach days with her mom, and giggles with her sister. She carried a special connection to her Chamorro roots in Guam, treasuring those memories and sharing that part of her identity with the people she loved.

Katie met the love of her life, Nick, in St. Louis through Anheuser Busch, beginning a love story built on adventure, laughter, and partnership. Together, they traveled the world, moved to New York City, and built a life filled with shared experiences and memories. Along the way, they brought together the people they loved, including a combined bachelor and bachelorette celebration with over 40 close friends, an iconic reflection of the life they built together.

As their life grew, they took on new chapters side by side, including adopting their first dog, Lucy, who quickly became part of their family. Through every step, they supported each other through both the highs and the hardest moments. In 2024, they were married under the stars, a night filled with joy, dancing, and a slip and slide that perfectly captured Katie’s spirit.

Katie was taken far too soon at the age of 30, but the life she lived was full, impactful, and deeply meaningful. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, faith, and love. While her absence is immeasurable, her smile, her light, and the way she made people feel will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

On Saturday, April 18, a funeral mass will be held in New York City at St. Paul the Apostle (405 W 59th St) and live streamed from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, with a celebration of life to follow at The Long Room (120 W 44th) from 2:15 to 5:00 pm. All are welcome.

Funeral Mass

Saturday April 18, 2026

1:00-2:00 pm

St Paul the Apostle

405 W 59th St, New York, NY 10019

 

Celebration of Life & Reception

Saturday April 18, 2026

2:15-5:00 pm

The Long Room

120 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

 

The family asks in lieu of flowers to continue to share your compelling stories of Katie’s light and to consider donating, in her name,  to:

St. Paul the Apostle, NYC

and/or to

The American Cancer Society

 

Cards and condolences may be sent to family:

2244 Jackson Ave., Apt. 4002

Long Island City NY 11101

And/or

1371 Shady Knoll Ct

Longwood FL 32750