MILFORD, IOWA – Kate Williams Nelson, 71, of Milford, died Monday, August 10, 2026, surrounded by people she loved.
A celebration of Kate’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 17, 2026, at Turner Jenness Funeral Home, 1101 10th Street in Milford. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 to 2 p.m. A reception will follow at 3 p.m. at The Ritz, 394 U.S. Highway 71 South in Arnolds Park. No burial or interment has been announced.
Kate was born February 13, 1955, in Fort Knox, Kentucky, to Bonnie and Bert Williams. The sixth of eight children, she grew up in the Garwin and Marshalltown area.
Kate was the mother of two daughters, Amy Hennies and her husband, Jason, and Kari Jacobsen and her husband, Heath. She took great pride in her grandchildren, Tegan and Jaxon Hennies and Asa and Raya Jacobsen.
Known for her outgoing personality, Kate enjoyed music, art, celebrations and time spent laughing with others. She brought energy to social gatherings and had a talent for turning ordinary occasions into lasting memories.
Kate treasured her longtime friendships with Debbie Griffiths and Janis Leiss, relationships that grew into bonds much like family. She also found happiness and companionship in later years with Jeff Hawn.
Kate is survived by her daughters and grandchildren; siblings Judy and Clyde; her partner, Jeff; and many friends and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Dennis, Bill, Linda, Cindy and Mel.
Turner Jenness Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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