Kathryn (Katie) Anderson

Kathryn (Katie) M Anderson, 97, of Des Moines passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025.  Born on November 9, 1928, in Des Moines, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Mildred (Smalley) Voitel.  Her father had a life-long wish to be a farmer; thus, she grew up in a farming family that rented and moved several times during the depression before buying a farm north of Norwalk.  While attending Norwalk schools, she played basketball.  After graduating in 1946, she worked at Equitable Life and for the Iowa legislature.  Employed with the Office of Veteran Affairs for 34 years, she enjoyed retirement and could be found most often outside tending to her gardens.  She enjoyed traveling to visit relatives in Colorado, California, Arizona, and toured England.  Found in the bleachers cheering at ball games, horse shows, cattle shows, dog shows, track meets and even car races, Kathryn was faithful to attend all events involving the grandkids.  Known for her Banana Nut Oatmeal cookies, she hosted The Tri-T craft group, volunteered at the Botanical Center and worked the election polls.  A member of the Indianola Heights Christian Church, she was also a member of South Gate Eastern Star for 50 years.

Kathryn was predeceased by her husband James (Jim) Anderson who passed in 2008, Robert (Bob) Geil who passed in 2001 and her brother William (Bill) Voitel who passed in 1986.  She is survived by two sons, William (Judy) Geil of Lancaster PA and David (Carol) Geil of Indianola IA; five grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.  

Services will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Chapel (7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines IA).  Family will greet visitors at 10:00 AM followed by service at 11:00 AM.  Interment will follow at Norwalk Cemetery.