Kay Andrist

Kay Ellen Andrist, passed away peacefully on December 18, in Houston, Texas. She was 78. Kay was a beacon of light to her family and friends, known for her endless positive energy. She was a leader who made sure "The Plans" got made, so the good times and memories could commence.

Kay was born March 9, 1946, in Beloit, Wisconsin, and graduated from Beloit Memorial High School in 1964. She attended the Rockford School of Practical Nursing, and began her career working for Dr. Druckray at the Beloit Clinic. Soon thereafter, Kay spotted her future husband, a young Engineer from North Dakota, through a keyhole at a party. On June 3, 1967, Kay married Willard "Willie" Andrist. After a brief move to Aberdeen, South Dakota, the couple settled down in Owatonna, Minnesota. They had two sons, Wayne (1969) and Douglas (1971).

Kay was a most dedicated wife and mother. She was an active volunteer at Owatonna Public Schools and a Cub Scout Leader for McKinley Pack 351. She was a member of Associated Church where she taught Sunday School, served on the Fellowship Committee, Education Committee, Council, and was a former President of Circle 5.

Kay loved tending to her yard and garden, often hosting neighborhood gatherings; including an annual picnic and many evenings around the fire pit. She loved to listen to music and dance. She was a Charter Member of The Steele Steppers Square Dance Club. After the loss of her loving husband, Willie, to Leukemia in 1988, she found new strength and independence to lead her family.

Kay reentered Health Care during the mid '80's as a Steele County Public Health Nurse (5 Years), Family Vision Care (7 Years), and then to Owatonna Hospital (13 Years) where she worked in Admissions and Centralized Scheduling until retirement in 2011.

Becoming a grandmother to Elsa infused so much joy into her life, and the opportunity to witness her grow through life's special moments was an experience beyond compare. After spending four consecutive winters in Texas, Kay moved to Galveston permanently in December, 2015.

Kay relished retirement as travel, family visits, "play dates" with friends, concerts in the park, book clubs, weekly card groups, and trying new recipes being some of her favorite activities. She loved her years on the Gulf Coast, where she would gaze at the sun light dancing on the waves....just as she had gazed into the glowing embers of backyard fires in Minnesota....always with a good memory, story, and the close comfort of those she loved.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents: Marjorie (Stadel / 2000) and Delbert Goodsell (1971); and husband: Willard Andrist (1988). Kay is survived by her sons: Wayne (Fawn) Andrist of Sugar Land, TX; Douglas (Rosemary) Andrist of Tobyhanna, PA; granddaughter: Elsa Andrist of Sugar Land, TX; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Kay will be remembered for her commitment to caring for others and the warmth she brought to those around her. Her legacy lives on through her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing.

A Galveston Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 12th at The Lyceum, 2401 Winnie Street. A Celebratory Luncheon will immediately follow.

A Graveside Memorial and Internment will be held 11:00AM, June 28th in Owatonna, Minnesota. Forest Hills Cemetery, 400 Mineral Springs Road. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Owatonna Arts Center, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, 435 Garden View Lane.

Flowers, Cards, or a Memorial Contribution to the Houston SPCA are all welcome.

Website: houstonspca.org

In Memory of: Kay Andrist

Family Notification: wayneandrist@outlook.com