Kathryn "Kathy" Sue Powers

life story

In Loving Memory of Kathryn “Kathy” Sue Powers

Kathy was born on October 5, 1956, in Des Moines, Iowa. She passed away on October 21, 2026, at the age of 70 from respiratory failure.

Kathy lived a full life and deeply loved her family, who remained an important part of her life.

Kathy dedicated 18 years of her career to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, where she worked as an admissions coordinator. Through her work, she was part of an organization devoted to helping individuals and families affected by addiction find hope and recovery.

Above all, Kathy cherished her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Ricky Powers; her daughter, Sarah (Kris); her son, Adam Powers; her two beloved grandchildren, Taisuke and Mieko; her sister, Teresa (Tony) Hunter; her brother, Garret (Deb) Shepard; her sister, Lee Ann (Bill) Shogren; her sister-in-law, Melissa Shepard, wife of her late brother, Douglas Shepard; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sue Shepard; her father, Arlin Shepard; her son, Joe Torres; her brother, Douglas Shepard; her grandparents, Cloryne “Nano” and Fred “Bompo” Volkamer; and her best friend, Lori Day.

Kathy’s life was filled with experiences, memories, and connections that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered by her family and friends for the life she lived and the love she held for them.

A celebration of life will be planned for a future date. Details will be shared when arrangements have been made.

May Kathy rest in peace, forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.