Kathy Rae Connor (née Cervine) passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on January 24, 2025, in the Heartwood House memory care center at Northcrest Community following a sudden illness.
She was born to Kenneth Cervine and Ruth (Irvine) Cervine of Fort Dodge, Iowa on August 7, 1942. Kathy attended Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) where she met her husband, Glenn Connor, before going on to earn her master's degree in education from Iowa State University. Kathy was an Ames resident for almost 60 years and enjoyed a 25-year career at Iowa State University, teaching in the College of Education and overseeing the student teaching program.
She was an active member of P.E.O. International (Chapter LN) and Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (Eta chapter), and a longtime member of Bethesda Lutheran Church. Kathy was a loving mother and wife and enjoyed spending time with both family and friends. She was especially known for her quick wit and sense of humor and never missed an opportunity to celebrate life.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Kenneth and is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, Glenn; son Anthony; and sister-in-law, Mary Cervine. Kathy also leaves behind many dear family members and friends, including her "Knit-wits" club, her coffee pals, and so many more. Per Kathy's wish, there will be no public service.
Donations in memory of Kathy may be sent to the Northcrest Foundation Heartwood House Endowment, 2300 Northcrest Parkway, Ames, IA 50010.
Online condolences may be directed to wwwgrandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
Tributes
Scott Sonksen wrote on Feb 12, 2025:
"Glenn and Tony-
So sorry to hear about your loss. I have so many fond memories of Kathy, as she was a very close friend of my mother, Kay. My God bless and comfort you during this time of loss. As believers, we will all be reunited in His glory.
Scott Sonksen and family
Linn Creek, MO"
Barb Van-slyke wrote on Feb 1, 2025:
"We are so sorry for your loss. Extending sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Neil & Barb"
Sara (Gunnerson) Prehm wrote on Jan 31, 2025:
"I'm deeply sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. Please know that you are in my thoughts."
Shannah Eitter wrote on Jan 31, 2025:
"I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of your family during this difficult time."
Carole Magilton wrote on Jan 29, 2025:
"Glenn,
I just learned of Kathy's passing. I remember her as such a gracious lady with a beautiful smile. She will be greatly missed by many. I, also, just learned of your visit to the hospital due to a heart attack. Mind the nurses and get that heart healthy again! My condolences to the rest of your family. I so enjoyed working with you while at Mitchell School.
Carole Magilton"
patty tolle wrote on Jan 26, 2025:
"im sure she was such a nice lady worked in her building isu and glen was my art teacher my heart goes out to glen and her son"
Janet and Henry Gray wrote on Jan 25, 2025:
"Kathy will be greatly missed but never forgotten and our thoughts and prayers are with you, Glenn and Tony and all whose lives she and you have touched in our earthly journey of life. Love and prayers from Janet and Henry Gray"
JANE RIPP wrote on Jan 25, 2025:
"GLEN AND TONY ,
ARE PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME. SHE WAS A GREAT FRIEND AND A MEMBER OF OUR KNIT WHITS GROUP. JANE RIPP"
Jan/Don Heuss wrote on Jan 25, 2025:
"Prayers for all who knew Kathy and will miss her greatly. May God?s comfort wrap you in loving arms and carry you through the days ahead. We will always remember her ?witticisms? that she added to our Northcrest neighbor gatherings. God bless
Jan/Don Heuss"