Kathryn Lance Obituary

Lance, Kathryn

Kathryn (KL) Lance passed away January 29, 2022, she was born in the year of the gray pennies and was fortunate to spend most of her childhood in Tucson. From the time she could hold a pencil she wanted to be a writer, and much of her remaining life was devoted to eclectic reading and professional writing.

Her first book, Running for Health and Beauty (1977), the first guide to running for women, sold half a million copies, and was often credited with helping to start the running movement.

Over the course of KL's career, she published sixty books. Her favorites were the three books in The Pandora's Trilogy, a science fiction adventure that she felt encapsulated everything she had ever believed or cared about. The following quote from a review in Analog Science Fiction and Fact, a major science fiction publication, was the culmination of all she had worked for in her many years as a writer.

"Kathryn Lance paints beautiful word-pictures and has a fantastic sense for emotional truth. This is one trilogy that starts good and gets better with each book; Pandora's Promise (the third book) is the best."

In addition to writing, KL was passionate about the natural world, and expressed that love through outdoor activities, including several years as a volunteer at Tohono Chul and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Sadly, KL outlived her parents, younger brother and sister, and her husband, Stuart "Rocko" Herzog. At home, her love was devoted to a myriad of real-life and online friends, and her beloved cats, Tasha and Shala.

Memorial donations may be made to Tohono Chul, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum or any organization that honors and cares for animals or people.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Feb. 6, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathryn Lance

10 Entries

Aileen McKenna

May 24, 2025

I have her first book still, which inspired me to begin running, and now as I approach my 83rd birthday, I´ve picked it up and am reading it again, realizing the impact this book had on me as I separated and then divorced. I suppose the empowerment I experienced by starting a running program, was highly instrumental in my getting on with my life.

Ms Tobie A Russ

February 4, 2025

Miss you, Rocko, and the happy get togethers playing Charades at your lovely home . New Years Events at your home were great also, always think of you and Rocko on all of my New Years Eves'. !!

Maria Purk

July 8, 2024

Just now became aware of Kathryn Lance´s passing.
I read her book "Running for Health and Beauty" in 1977.
It so motivated me that I ran and completed the NYC 10K Women´s Mini Marathon in 2 months.
I was fortunate enough to meet her while picking up my number the day before the race. I told her that her book changed my life. She was so humble and gracious.
Ran 4 marathons after that, went back to school and earned a BS in nursing.
Owe it all to KL for getting me on the path to a healthier, happier, successful life.
God bless you Kathryn Lance.

Pam Green

June 17, 2024

My condolences for your loss. I bought her book Running For Health and Beauty when it was published in 1977. I am now 71 years old, and I still read it for it's valuable information. Also, I am still running 3 miles, 3 times a week, and participate in several races.

Meredith Parsons

February 12, 2022

Rest In Peace dear friend. Love, Merm

Tobie A. Russ

February 11, 2022

Just sent off condolence letter to dear Kathryn for her dearest and truest love; Rocko. Now she is with him. I am deeply appreciative of a short time of a couple years; enjoying her and Rocko's kindess and humanity during the Charades Gathering's. A good soul, both of them. May they rest together in peace, happiness and good visitations to all loved by them!

Janel Feierabend

February 10, 2022

I´m missing KL when I do quarterly bird counts at Tohono Chul. She always made great and clever "asides" during our 3 hour walks. KL was the person who was always enthusiastic about counting the white-winged doves. When the WWDs arrive with spring, I will know KL is there in spirit to count them. She will be missed at Tohono Chul.

Kathi Barber

February 9, 2022

I will miss KL. I will remember her when I am bird watching or walking the trails of Tohono Chul. I will remember her Pandora's Trilogy. I will remember her song writing with our mutual friends for the Tucson Gridiron Club. I will remember her each time I eat Gelato!

Rest in Peace friend. Such a kind soul you are.

Lacey Wootton

February 9, 2022

I knew KL primarily online, although I was lucky enough to meet her in person a few years ago. She was smart, witty, kind, and thoughtful, with a beautiful connection to the natural world. I feel lucky to have known her.

Doug Tepper

February 6, 2022

I'm going to really miss KL. She and my father enriched each other's lives for several years in the 90s, taking hikes, road trips, and competing against each other to complete the Sunday Times crossword. Kathryn remained a family friend long after.

As a teacher, I once read Going to See Grassy Ella aloud to my students, and they were thrilled when the author herself gave a surprise visit to our class once we were done with the book.

I loved chatting with her about the latest news with U of A sports, and about cats as well. I know my sister and she enjoyed talking about birding. Kathryn was so bright and witty, and a great cat mom. I'm sad for Tasha and Shala, and hope they have good new homes.

My condolences to her family. Thank you for your friendship, KL!

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