Kathryn A. Hart

Kathryn Ann Hart, 93, died peacefully April 27, 2025 surrounded by her loving daughter, Alice Anne and son-in-law, John G. Swenka. Visitation will be from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in West Des Moines followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines.

Kathy was born March 25, 1932 in Des Moines to Ruth Jewel (Deeringer) and Benjamin F. Coon. She became interested in piano at age 3 and began piano lessons in the 3rd grade. Kathy played for school musicals at Roosevelt High School, where she graduated in the class of 1950. She began additional piano classes at Drake University in the preparatory department and organ performance for 5 years. Kathy married Hugene “Gene” Wilson Hart on September 2, 1950 and they had two daughters, Alice Anne and Shari Sue Hart.

Kathy and Gene loved the Lord Jesus and were active in every church they attended throughout their lives. They met at Westover Baptist Church in Des Moines where Kathy was playing piano on Sunday and the rest is history! They moved to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Urbandale in the early 1960’s where she played both piano and organ. A new opportunity to become the resident pianist at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church arose and she accepted the responsibility. Kathy enjoyed her role in music and Gene was active in Evangelism, and they officially retired from their roles at the church in 2017. Throughout her life she played piano for many civic organizations, along with numerous church events and clinics.

Kathy and Gene were married for 72 years! They traveled the country and Europe and extended their blessings to family and friends willingly. Always being mindful to give credit to the Lord!

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gene; daughter, Shari Sue Hart-Powers; sister, Barbara Henderson; and niece, Mindy Sue Henderson. She is survived by her daughter, Alice Anne (John G.) Swenka; grandson, Lane (Katherine) Swenka; great-granddaughter Stella Sue; and brother-in-law, Larry Henderson.

Memorials may be directed to Shepherd of the Valley Music Ministry, Alzheimer's Association of Iowa, Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation, or the American Cancer Society.