Kathryn “Kate” (Katy) Gerst, 76, passed away on March 28, 2026.
She was born on October 26, 1949, in Burlington, Iowa, to Edwin “Ed” and Carolyn “Cotty” Hicklin and was raised in Wapello, Iowa. She grew up surrounded by family, lifelong friends, and a strong sense of community that stayed with her throughout her life. Wapello was always home to her, and it remained the center of her life and the place where she built lasting relationships and memories. On March 1, 1969, she married the love of her life, Roger “Rod” Gerst Jr. Together they built a life grounded in family, community, and a deep care for the people around them.
She was a devoted wife and mother, and her daughter was at the center of her world. Being a mom was the role she cherished most, and it showed in the way she supported, encouraged, and stood by her daughter through every stage of life.
Kate was known by many as the heart of the Wapello junior and senior high school. She served as secretary for nearly 20 years and knew every student who walked through those doors. She remembered their names, their stories, and what they needed, and she treated each one with kindness and care. To many students, she was more than a secretary. She was someone they could count on, someone who listened, and someone who made them feel seen. She also served as the school’s drama director, where she encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones and be part of something bigger. Her impact on those students stayed with them long after they left school.
Her love of music was a constant throughout her life. She was a talented bassoon player and performed with the Southeast Iowa Symphony for many years. Music was not just something she did, it was something she truly loved. Later, she took on the role of manager for the symphony, continuing to support the organization and the arts community in a different way. She believed in the importance of music and the role it played in bringing people together.
She was always supportive of Rod’s photography and took great pride in her daughter’s career. She encouraged the people she loved without hesitation and stood behind them in everything they did. Her support was steady and unwavering, and it meant more than words can fully express.
Travel was something she loved throughout her life and something she shared with her family. She and Rod spent years exploring together, and those experiences became an important part of their life. They traveled across the country and beyond, including trips to Canada and Alaska. Whether it was a long-planned trip or time spent simply getting away, she valued those moments. Being together, seeing new places, and making memories along the way brought her a great deal of joy. After retiring, she was able to spend even more time traveling and being with Rod and Cary, something she truly cherished.
Above all else, she was the best mom. She was steady, loving, and always there when it mattered most. She showed up in every way that counted, and that is what will be remembered most.
She is survived by her husband, Rod; her daughter, Carolyn “Cary” Gerst; her sisters, Martha (Greg) Remley, Betsy Barber, Nancy (Mike) Roach, and Jane Weaver; her brother, Bill (Erin) Weaver; her brother-in-law, Marty (Brenda) Gerst; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her parents-in-law, Roger and Dot (Dorothy) Gerst; her infant daughter, Hannah; her sister, Joan (Ronald) Cross; and her sister-in-law, Becky Gerst.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no services or memorial at this time. A memorial has been established for the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra, https://www.seiso.us/support, in Kate’s name. Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral & Cremation Services is caring for Kate’s arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sandhfuneralservice.com.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
