Kay Ann Esbeck North

Kay North, 70, of Ames, passed away June 2, 2012 at her home. A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 7th at Memorial Lutheran Church at 2 PM, followed by refreshments at the church. A visitation and celebration of her life will held for family and friends at Stevens Memorial Chapel, in Ames, Wednesday, June 6th from 5-8 PM.

Kay was born Oct. 20, 1941 in Moline, Illinois to Howard and Ruth Esbeck. She was raised on the family farm in Elk Horn, Iowa where she excelled in school and 4H. She was a graduate of Iowa State University and had attained nearly a doctorate in Education. Kay was an educator who had a passion for learning that was contagious. She taught sixth grade at Fellows Elementary in the Ames Community School District and was a tireless champion of gifted education. In addition to leading the Ames district as ELP coordinator, she served as president of the Iowa Talented and Gifted (ITAG) Association, ITAG conference chair, and was an ITAG Distinguished Service Recipient. She presented collaborative research at the National Association of Gifted Children (NAGC) International Conference. Countless students and teachers were impacted by her character and dedication. All who knew her were astounded by her drive and work ethic. In retirement, her leadership and desire to serve was used for numerous organizations, including the Danish Immigrant Museum in Elk Horn and the Eta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma.

Kay always found ways to laugh and enjoy life, and she had such a spirit of independence and adventure. Her love of dogs, horses, and the outdoors was truly evident. Kay was blessed to be able to travel to exciting places with friends and family in her retirement years, but Iowa’s beauty remained her first love. As it is said, “You can take the girl out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl”. So it was with Kay Ann.

Kay is survived by her daughter Tammy Rosenberry, of Granger, IA, her husband Mark and son Cole; son Scott Sonksen, of Linn Creek, MO, his wife Tammy and children Shane and Alaina; Kay’s brothers David (Helen) Esbeck of San Diego, CA and Carl (Kathie) Esbeck of Columbia, MO; stepson Randy North and numerous other relatives. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Wayne.

As a show of sympathy, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Danish Immigrant Museum, PO Box 249, Elk Horn, IA 51531. On line condolences may be left at www.stevensmemorialchapel.com.