Katherine Jane Hunzelman

Katherine Jane Hunzelman, 72, passed away May 10, 2021. Kathy was born on April 27, 1949, to James and Lydia Thompson in Sioux City, Iowa. Growing up, Kathy enjoyed spending countless hours with her four siblings and many cousins at family gatherings and holidays. After high school, she attended UNI and later transferred to Drake University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1973. Kathy married her husband of 48 years, Marshall Hunzelman, on September 27, 1969, and the couple raised their family in Beaverdale and later West Des Moines.

Family was Kathy’s number one priority. She could always be found at her children’s numerous activities and later supporting her nine beloved grandchildren’s many pursuits. She never missed a ballgame or a dance recital. Kathy had a philanthropic heart, constantly volunteering at school, at church and within her community. Holidays were her absolute favorite. She loved to find the perfect Christmas gifts, overflow Easter baskets with goodies, and set a beautiful table for a home cooked meal. She enjoyed family vacations and spending time with cherished friends who were like family to her and Marshall.

Kathy will be greatly missed by her family: son, David (Martha Dennstedt) Hunzelman and their daughter, Abby; daughter, Alissa (Chad) Strauss and their children, Samantha, Henry and Charlie; son, Brian (Melissa) Hunzelman and their children, Madison and Sydney; daughter, Lindsey (Justin) Sheeder and their children, Kiersten, Claira and Reed; sister, Sheila (Ed) Pick; and many dear cousins and friends. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Marshall, sisters, Karen Simmons and Sally Casler, and her brother, J. Robert Thompson.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 16, 2021, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. A funeral service will be held Monday, May 17, at 11:00 a.m. at West Des Moines United Methodist Church, 720 Grand Ave., with burial at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. We kindly request that masks be worn. The funeral will be livestreamed at Hamilton’s website.

Memorial contributions may be directed to West Des Moines United Methodist Church or Suncrest Hospice. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Link to Katherine Hunzelman Service

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