Obituary of KimAnne Koontz

KimAnne Koontz (Beardemphl)

March 4, 1957 - April 26, 2021

KimAnne passed away suddenly on Monday, April 26th, surrounded by her family. As a beloved wife, mother, grandmother (Nama), daughter, sister, aunt, teacher, and friend; KimAnne filled each role with compassion, joy, and grace.

She was our biggest cheerleader, our brightest light, and our most faithful companion. She put her excellent memory to use frequently, as she took the time to send cards with personalized, handwritten notes to those close to her for birthdays and other important life events. KimAnne was always there when help was needed. She was the first to arrive and the last to leave, providing comfort and support in whatever form the situation called for.

She found her calling early in life, first by caring for her younger siblings, and then by spending two years after high school caring for children in an orphanage in Mexico. KimAnne loved to be around babies and children. She intuitively knew the needs and wants of every child she cared for, and it brought her great joy.

KimAnne taught preschool in Tacoma's co-op community for 22 years, where she was affectionately known as ‘Teacher KimAnne’. She developed close relationships with her preschool families and remembered every child that ever came through her classroom doors. We joked she was the family rockstar, as she was recognized by her students almost every time she was out and about around town.

KimAnne was a lifelong and faithful parishioner of Saint Patrick's Catholic Church. She was a servant of God and spread His love to every person she encountered. She found great comfort and peace in the word of the Lord, especially the rosary. Whenever she found out someone was going through a tough time, she would faithfully recite the rosary in dedication to them, and they would be added to her extensive prayer list.

KimAnne is survived by her husband of 41 years, Cliff, daughters Melissa (Terry) and Amanda (Jesse), son Joshua (Katie), grandsons Ethan and Leo, parents David and Iris Beardemphl, siblings Ron (Jan), Pamela (William), Kristi (Gerald), Jeffrey (Sheri), Michael (Stephanie), Terilinn (Alejandro), Mark (Kristy), and David, and many beloved nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

We appreciate everyone who has already reached out with kind words, prayers, love and condolences. KimAnne’s love and compassion has left a mark on all who knew her. She will be dearly missed.