Kay Marie passed away peacefully at the age of 83 years old. Kay was a wife, Mom, Grammie, friend, dance instructor and a business owner. She was one of the founders and co-owner of Kay Marie and Carol’s School of Dance. Dancing was her life, it’s what she lived and breathed. She taught children and young adults not just how to dance, but how to carry themselves, how to work as a team, how each person on that team mattered, she taught them discipline, respect, and how a young woman with a dream and determination could be a successful entrepreneur and household name. She touched lives across multiple generations, and students and families alike became close friends over the years.

Those who knew Kay knew that she was a natural leader, the first one on any dance floor, and that she was always dressed with the most coordinated attire in the room. She had a purse for every occasion, likely shoes with a little bit of bling, and matching jewelry for each holiday. Her organization and attention to detail was well thought out in her work, her décor, and any event.

Her dancing would not be complete without a loving partner, one that could follow her lead and compliment her dance through life. Kay Marie and Robert “Bob” Rau were married for 32 blessed years. They enjoyed traveling, spending retirement enjoying their home together, being involved in their church, and hosting any event. They never missed an opportunity on a dance floor and were always happy as long as they were together.

Kay Marie leaves this world as a legendary entrepreneur, leader, director of poise and perfection, unison and grace. Today she doesn’t enter or exit from stage left or stage right, she is amongst all of us, probably trying to find a window or a door (for all of you dancers out there). We curtsy to what you leave behind and bow to the paths you paved ahead for every dancer or leader of their kind. We toast you with a glass of white zin with every eight count you hear and every rhythm you find. We hope you dance.

Kay Marie is survived by her best friend and husband, Bob Rau; and many family and friends.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents Ron and Irene Kreatz; sister, Carol Singleton; good friend, Anne Dubois; and grandson, Carter Herberg.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Thursday, September 10th at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes, MN 55014. Visitation at the church from 10-11 AM Thursday, September 10th. Interment St. Joseph's Church Cemetery.

Memorials preferred to:

Ronald McDonald House Charities - Upper Midwest (RMHC-UM)

621 Oak St SE | Minneapolis, MN 55414

or online: https://www.rmhc-uppermidwest.org/Support/

Please note Kay Marie in the Tribute Section online, or memo line of the check."

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