Kathrina Antwi

Kathrina H. Antwi
"Beloved Mother” "Generous Soul"

TORRINGTON- Kathrina H Antwi, 58, of Torrington has left her home in this world, as she was called back to be in the presence of her heavenly father on Nov. 15, 2022. Kathrina was born in Kete-Krachi, Ghana, on Sept. 7, 1964, daughter of the late William Henkel (Sr) and Abena Osore. Kathrina first arrived in the United States in 1988 at the age of 24 with her first born son. Over the next six years three brothers followed. It was then that she began to pursue her passion for being a caretaker, not only for her four boys but for her community as well. She first fueled this passion by becoming a certified nursing assistant.  Kathrina had a strong work ethic and a driving ambition. Having been a natural athlete as a runner and a swimmer in her native Africa, these attributes steered her into the fitness industry. She started out as a fitness instructor and personal trainer who gathered a large following by working in various health clubs in the Greater Torrington area. Her dream of being a small business owner was finally realized when she opened her own Fitness Center in downtown Torrington in 2001. Her client base grew very quickly as a result of her complete commitment and dedication to her students. Within a year the expansion of her business was necessary and resulted in more classes, more machines and more square footage. She masterminded all of this on her own, working many 12-16 hour days. Her business and life were the subject of numerous newspaper articles as well as a guest speaking engagement at The Warner Theater during one of their annual Forums for Women in Business. She also hosted various events and charity fundraisers at her studio in order to give back and support the community that had so enthusiastically supported her.

She was a mother who was a model of dedication to her family and a devoted Christian. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, positive aura and how steadfast she was in the face of adversity. She would often use her life story as a way to inspire others and lived by the motto "where there is a will there is a way."  She often found peace and relaxation through long-distance runs, classical music, and hosting events for others. These were times when she glowed.


Left to honor her memory, and cherish her legacy, are her children, Kwaku Antwi with his wife Erin Antwi, Michael Antwi, Samuel Antwi, and Gabriel Antwi, along with her brother and sisters  Elise Henkel, Juliana Henkel ,Rudolf Henkel, Rundstedt Henkel, Aurora Henkel, Aphrodite Henkel, Handel Henkel, Cleopatra Henkel, Theseus Henkel, Pericles Henkel, Emmanuel Amankwah, Rebecca Acheamponmaa, former love Guy Grenier, as well many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Kathrina's life will take place at Phalen Funeral Home, 285 Migeon Ave, Torrington, CT 06790 on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022 with calling hours of 5-7 with a memorial service from 7-8. Funeral service will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flower donations can be made to FISH/Friends in Service to Humanity of NWCT, inc.