Dr. Kathryn Simons Wurster-Schmidt

It is with a heartfelt sense of loss that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Kathryn (Kathy) Wurster-Schmidt of Ankeny, IA on July 21, 2024, at the age of 81.

Kathy was born on October 8, 1942, in Morristown, NJ to Stanley and Kathryn Simons and grew up in Morris Plains, NJ. Her career in healthcare began as a candy striper at the local hospital while in high school. After graduating from Morristown High School in 1960, Kathy went on to study nursing at Alfred University where she graduated in 1964. Driven by her love for helping others, she worked as a critical care nurse in New York City, before marrying and returning to Morris Plains to raise a family.

Once her children were grown, Kathy returned to the healthcare field to become a chiropractor. She graduated from the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA in 1992 and settled in Ankeny, IA. “Dr. Kathy” was passionate about her work and ran her own chiropractic practice in Ankeny for many years, until she retired in 2013.

Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, John Patrick Schmidt. She is survived by her brother, Lewis Simons; her four children, Suzanne Wurster Agnello, David Wurster, Marc Wurster, and Christopher Wurster; her four grandchildren; and her first husband, Charly Wurster.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Red Cross in loving memory of Kathy.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print

Leave message

Kristin Howe

07/28/2024

Dr. Kathy had a profound impact on my health both physically and emotionally. Her 'version' of chiropractic was helpful beyond all others. I was her patient for a few years until her retirement and I have missed her and her treatments since then. I regret losing touch with her since her retirement. I've thought of her often and longed to reach out to her to let her know that the energy healing portion of her treatments guided me to find my own intuitive and energy healing gifts. Had it not been for her, I would not have recognized it when it was presented to me. For that, I am forever grateful. Dr. Kathy unknowingly helped to guide me on my journey to finding and recognizing my life's purpose. She was phenomenally gifted and I feel very fortunate to have crossed paths with her on our journeys through this life. Her legacy will always live on in my eyes, as I credit her for opening my mind to what is possible. She was a true blessing and as 'real' as they get. My sincerest condolences to her family. The world was a better place because she was in it.