Kathy Vander Ecken

Kathryn "Kathy" Vander Ecken, 68, of Lacona, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at her home. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.
Kathy was born on February 2, 1956, to Tom and Sally (Evans) Stephenson in Lacona. She grew up with her two brothers, Scott and George. From a young age, Kathy was known for her kindness, generosity, and warm spirit-qualities that stayed with her throughout her life and made her a beloved member of the community.
Kathy spent much of her career working closely with the public, which suited her nature perfectly. She worked for 25 years as a waitress at Rudy's Rendezvous and dedicated 23 years of service to the SEW School District. Her approachable personality, caring demeanor, and hardworking ethic made her a fixture in the lives of many in the community. She enjoyed her time spent with her friends in the Lacona Beautification Comittee, where they tirelessly worked to improve the Lacona Community.
Kathy's heart was forever entwined with that of her true love, Kevin Vander Ecken. After meeting, they married and began building their life together in Lacona, Iowa. The couple was blessed with two daughters, Gretchen and Johnna, and Kathy poured her heart into being a loving mother and grandmother.
An avid reader, Kathy found joy in literature and was an active participant in her book club, where she shared her love for stories and ideas. Outside of work and family, she was known for her quick wit, infectious laugh, and the warmth she spread to everyone who crossed her path.
Kathy's kindness, generosity, and love will forever live in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in her life.
Kathryn will be greatly missed by her husband, Kevin Vander Ecken; father, Tom Stephenson; daughters: Gretchen (Jeff) Burch and Johnna Vander Ecken; grandchildren: Jasper, Ryder, and Oliver; siblings: Scott (Patti) Stephenson and George (Debbie) Stephenson; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. she was preceded in death by her mother, Sally Stephenson. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sally Stephenson.