Fidelio Cruise mourns Katja Wassmer

'Katja epitomized dedication, hard work and concern for both colleague and customer alike,' the company said in a note. During her more than a decade with Fidelio Cruise, she became the resident SPMS subject matter expert.

'Her efforts over the years have without a doubt helped propel Fidelio Cruise forward. Her co-workers will miss her greatly,' the company said.

Off the job, Wassmer's interests included running marathons and SCUBA diving. She was an avid outdoors person and an animal lover who doted on her two dogs, Emily and Gilmore.

Wassmer is survived by her husband Carl, and her parents Renate and Rolf.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to one of Wassmer's favorite causes, the Humane Society of Broward County.