Kathy Burk Hanson, age 68, of Ames, died Friday Dec. 2, 2016, at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. A gathering of friends and family will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care in Ames, with a celebration of life memorial service to be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8 at Collegiate Presbyterian Church in Ames. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Fort Madison, Iowa.
Kathy Ann Burk was born on June 29, 1948 in Burlington, Iowa, the first daughter of William and Marguerite Burk. She graduated from Fort Madison High School in 1966. She attended Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois before coming to Iowa State University where she received a Bachelor's of Science, Master's degree and finally her Ph.D. in 1993. In 1982 Kathy married Scott Hanson, and this union was blessed with two beautiful children, Sarah and Jeffrey. The couple later divorced. Kathy worked as a professor and researcher at Iowa State University for over 30 years before retiring in 2010. She was an active member at Collegiate Presbyterian Church, serving as a deacon, elder and most recently as president of trustees. She served in the PEO Chapter MI in Ames since 1969, and was its longtime president. Along with these activities, Kathy enjoyed gardening, caring for her cats, cooking, hiking with her friends "the walkers," reading with her book club and traveling; but any of her friends know her true passion was for her family, especially her granddaughters. Kathy's selflessness and joyful spirit made her a wonderful mother and grandmother, and her sense of humor made her a wonderful friend. She held onto these precious qualities even in her final days.
Kathy is survived by her children, Sarah (Dustin) Adams of Bondurant, and Jeff (Laura) Hanson of Grimes; two granddaughters, Lily and Layla Adams of Bondurant; brother, Denis (Vicki) Burk of Wever; and brother-in-law David Mortensen of Ely. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Nancy Mortensen.
For those who want to make a donation in Kathy's honor, please make checks payable to "Animal Rescue League of Iowa" or "PEO Chapter MI, educational loan fund," (this helps women in severe financial need to get their degree).
Online condolences may be directed to: www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
Sarah and Jeff,
My deepest sympathy at your loss. Your Mom and you were great neighbors on Hickory Drive and she was a great person to work with in her professional role at the university.
Her wonderful smile will be greatly missed,
Diana
Dear Sarah & Jeff,
Your mother, Kathy sat be me at ISU Women's Volleyball games last year and also the first game this year. She was funny, she was smart and could not keep from being happy. She was a real delight. She so suddenly learned that she was ill and how quickly, she left us. She was so proud of her families and the newest grandchildren. Why a quick trip to Omaha to assist in their care of the grandchild was pure joy and she always had pictures for proof. I miss her already, but treasure the time we had together. My condolences to you as you get used to life without her.
Dear Sarah and Jeff:
You have my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. I always enjoyed visiting with her when you had your appointments with me.
It was an honor to call Kathy my friend the past 3 years. As a fellow retiree, we had a GREAT time working our part time job together, talking about our little grand daughters as well as the Cubs vs Cardinals. I will always treasure those memories. So sorry for the loss of your wonderful mother!
Kathy was a wonderful neighbor to my parents on Woodland Street for many years. She died too soon. Sad news.
We will miss Kathy so much, but we know she is a blessing in heaven!
Visitation
Ames, IA 50010
Service
Ames, IA 50014
Sign in to add your memory
Let the family know who you are using one of the quick sign-in options below.
Just for verification: we never spam!
Share Photo/Memorial Tributes
Add to Your Calendar
Obit Checkin
Obituary Notifications
Get Updates - tribute notifications
Get Updates - SMS notifications
Help show your support by providing a gift of flowers and spreading the word.
Spread the Word
Help friends and acquaintances of Kathy leave memories by sharing to Facebook
Share on Facebook