Kathleen Joy Bayens

Kathleen Joy Bayens (Van Stedum) passed away and went home to be with her Lord on June 18th, 2024. Kathy was born to John and Annette (Joling) Van Stedum on October 21, 1945. She attended Denver Christian grade and high schools along with her six siblings. On December 17th, 1965, she married James Bayens; they were blessed with six wonderful and vibrant children. Kathy was an amazing wife and mother; she was loving and encouraging and worked hard to keep the busy household under control and on track. In addition to being a full-time mom and wife, Kathy spent most of her career working in hospitals, which proved to be a perfect match for her caring and patient nature. She worked for St. Anthony Hospital for over 30 years and received numerous recognitions for her service and dedication. After Jim and Kathy retired, they enjoyed their time together and travelled within the U.S. and Kathy went hiking every chance she got. Jim’s health eventually began to decline, and Kathy lovingly cared for him until he died in 2020 at the age of 78.

Kathy was incredibly kindhearted, generous, and selfless, always putting the needs of others before her own. She always made time for her six children as they grew and navigated adulthood and all of life’s facets. She loved her eight grandchildren dearly, taking every opportunity she could to be with them and watch them grow. Kathy spent countless hours volunteering for her church, delivering flowers each week, participating in prayer chains and many other weekly activities within the church. Outside of the church, she was an amazing friend and neighbor to many, always offering a helping hand or an ear to listen. Kathy was an exceptionally good listener, and had a calming, gentle presence that really put others at ease. She was also clever and had a wonderful sense of humor that could naturally brighten spirits and lift others.

Kathy was impressively active; she enjoyed hiking, walking, gardening, and exercising almost daily. She also had a passion for studying the Word and reading books of varying genres. Most of her time was spent helping and connecting with others, whether it was volunteering with the church, helping neighbors, spending time with her siblings and children, or caring for and doting on one of her eight grandchildren. Kathy also loved baking and passed this passion, along with countless recipes, on to her children.

She is survived and forever loved and remembered by her children, Kerri Diep, Konrad Bayens, Jaimi Christly, Joani Chapman, Kendra Nelson, and Juli Case, and their families, as well as her siblings, Roger Van Stedum, Marjorie Schwartz, David Van Stedum, and Sharon Burgers. She is predeceased by her loving husband, James Bayens, parents John and Annette Van Stedum, and siblings Jean Natelborg and Paul Van Stedum. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to one of Kathy's favorite organizations. Summit of Peace Lutheran Church in Thornton, Co. Or St. Jude Children's research hospital.