Aranza Anne Winkelman Kottmeyer, known as “Ranz” to her family and friends, was born in Sasebo, Japan on March 25, 1966 to Pam and Hank Winkelman. She passed away on September 27, 2018 in West Des Moines, Iowa.
A vibrant, thoughtful, and determined person, she always remained connected to extended family and friends - she will be missed by all. Naturally curious, caring, and easy-going, she could walk into a room full of strangers, and leave with a room full of new friends. A traveler and explorer at heart, she relished family trips, creating wonderful experiences and memories. Her marketing career began at Thornton Tomasetti in New York, which then took her to HOK in London and later St. Louis. Aranza attended Clayton High School in St. Louis and continued studies at Arizona State University and St. Louis University. In addition to her work in marketing, she was active in the civic community, working on political campaigns, as well as assisting in campaigns for community issues. She was involved with the Junior League of St. Louis, Children’s Advocacy Center and was also an active member in her church.
In 2005, Bill Kottmeyer and Aranza married and made their home in Bowie, Maryland along with their dog, Gracie. In November, 2006 she welcomed the love of her life, her son Max, into the world. In 2014, the family moved to Iowa where Aranza continued to be active in school activities and church.
Aranza is survived by Bill Kottmeyer, her adored son Max, her father and her siblings, Tam McGuire and husband John; Tanner Winkelman and wife Marianne; Sarah Holtrup and husband Paul, and the nieces and nephew that she adored: Mary and Bea McGuire and Catherine and Jack Holtrup. A service will take place on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 10:00 am at the Church of St. Michael and St. George in Clayton, Missouri.
A service to celebrate Aranza’s life will take place on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 10:00 am at the Church of St. Michael and St. George in Clayton, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any of charity of your choice.
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