Katie E. Hawzen

Katie Hawzen, 38, passed away on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.

She is preceded in death by her father Chris Hoekstra, uncles: Mike Hoekstra, Jim Barela; maternal grandmother Ellen Barela, maternal grandfather Vern Hoekstra and paternal grandmother Mary Hoekstra.

Katie is survived by her husband Chris Hawzen, son Brooks Hawzen, mother Tammy Shipp (James), brother Luke Hank (Kara); step-brothers: Gregg Shipp (Leslie), Jacob Dusenberry , Tyson Lamb; sister Stacy Hank; step-sisters: Erin Watson, Samantha Berrones; grandfather Joe Barela; aunts: Brenda Barela, Liz Brecht (Rick), Connie Hoestra; father and mother-in-law: Gary and Diane Hawzen; brothers-in-law: Matt Hawzen (Jackie), Greg Hawzen, Paula Hoekstra; also several nieces and nephews who adored her.

Katie was born on November 7, 1984 in Iowa City. She graduated from Wilton High School in 2003. In 2009, she graduated from the Dental Hygiene Program at Kirkwood Community College. After graduation Katie worked as a dental hygienist in Oklahoma City. On October 22, 2011 she married the love of her life, Chris Hawzen in Albuquerque. Katie and Chris welcomed their son Brooks in February of 2015. She naturally took on the role of a dedicated, amazing, and loving mother. In August of 2019, they relocated to Albuquerque where Katie continued to work as a dental hygienist and Chris continued his career in the United States Air Force. Katie enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, but above all loved spending time with her son and husband.

Katie will be remembered most for her outgoing and vibrant personality. She could light up a room with her smile and infectious laugh, along with her sense of humor, silly faces and voices. Katie was a kind, positive, and selfless person who was a friend to all. She will never be forgotten and will remain in our hearts forever. Katie truly was one of a kind.

Katies Life Celebration will take place on Sunday, August 13, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Wilton Community College located at 1215 Cypress St, Wilton, IA 52778.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Katie Hawzen Memorial Fund or donations can be sent to P.O.Box 672, Wilton, IA 52778.