Symonette, Kathy Ann

Kathy Ann Symonette, 78, of Cedar Rapids, died Sept. 1, 2011, at West Ridge Care Center following an extended illness. There will be a Memorial Service to celebrate Kathy's life at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories. There will be a visitation immediately before the service starting at 9 a.m. There will be a private burial in Swisher at Anderson Cemetery.

Survivors include sons, Thomas (Celeste) Symonette of Salem, Ore., and Christopher (Pam) Symonette of Indian Land, S.C.; daughter, Cindy (Paul) Hills of Swisher, Iowa; and grandchildren, Michelle, Maranda and Kayla Symonette and Hunter, Annie, and Walker Hills and Yinhua Symonette.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Anna Louise Symonette; and brothers, James and Dr. Raymond Shank.

Kathy Ann Symonette was born June 15, 1933, in Milwaukee, Wis., the daughter of Raymond and Kathleen (Simsrott) Shank. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin. Kathy worked as an insurance underwriter for 20 years with United Fire and Casualty. She also volunteered at Prairie Woods Spiritual Center and very much enjoyed spending time with family.

The family would like to thank West Ridge Care Center and St. Luke's Hospice for their exceptional care for Kathy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Camp Courageous.

Online condolences may be left at  under obituaries.

Published Sept. 4, 2011, in The Gazette