Kathy Sue (Helfrich) Austin, 72, of Nampa, went to be with her mother and father in heaven on May 26th, 2018.
Kathy was born in Nampa to Charles and Dell Helfrich on December 7, 1945. She is the third of five siblings. She grew up mainly in Nampa, but also lived in Fruitland and Featherville, ID. She attended and graduated from Nampa Senior High School, class of 1964. Shortly after graduating, she was hired as an Administrative Assistant by the Idaho Fish and Game.
Kathy met her husband Dave, a member of the Air Force, through her friends, Linda and Doreen. Kathy and Dave married in Elko, Nevada on February 9, 1971. They eventually settled in Nampa, in the same house that Kathy live in as a child. They had 3 daughters and Kathy then became a stay at home mom. Not only did she raise her own girls, she also raised many of the neighborhood kids. She was a mother to many and was always there for “her kids”.
Kathy was a friend to many people as well. She never turned her back on those in need. For many years, she grew vegetables in her garden and shared them with her neighbors. She bought gloves, coats and scarves for the neighborhood children. She lent money to those who needed to pay rent or buy groceries or pay bills. She was always looking out for those less fortunate, even when she herself had little. There were so many who called her friend and gave her thanks.
Kathy eventually returned to work once her daughters were in school. She worked for the Idaho Department of Labor and then the Idaho Tax Commission, from which she retired.
Kathy loved reading and would always have a book in hand. She also enjoyed gardening and her green thumb is apparent around her home in many flower beds with brilliantly colored flowers. Kathy also loved the ocean and each summer for the past 15 years, she rented a house at the Oregon coast to spend time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed hearing the waves ebb and flow, a peace coming over her while she sat on the beach.
Kathy is survived by her husband David Austin of Nampa, her daughters Deney (Frank) Metayer of Caldwell, Brandie (Brian) Huck of Eagle and Lisa Austin of Boise. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Taige, Emilie, Hailey, Kiersten, Hauna, Banyan, Laynee, Luke, Hannah and Lucas. She loved her grandkids more than words can express. She is also survived by her sister Vicki Drum and her brothers Charles, Gary and Steve Helfrich.
Kathy is a beloved wife, mother, sister, friend and Granny, who will be missed by many and forgotten by none. We love you.
A Memorial Service to Honor Kathy's life will be held on 4:00PM Friday, June 1, 2018 at Alsip and Persons Funeral Chapel, 404 10th Avenue South, Nampa, Idaho 83651.
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