Kristen M. Nowak, 38, lost her long battle with kidney disease on March 16, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church (510 E. 1st St., Ankeny, IA). Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, also at the church.

Kristen was born June 5, 1987, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Stephen and Maureen (Graham) Nowak. She was a bright light, always laughing and giggling, and loved playing with dolls as a child. She earned her master’s degree in psychology with hopes of becoming a counselor.

As a young adult, she enjoyed working as a counselor, helping individuals who were facing difficult challenges in their lives. She faced her own challenges, diagnosed with kidney failure in April 2017. She had dialysis treatments three to four times a week, but tackled her treatments with bravery and courage. She had hope she would one day win her battle.

Kristen is survived by her parents, Maureen and Stephen Nowak; sister, Mindy Drake; uncles, David (Margaret) Nowak, and Gregg Nowak; and cousins, Elizabeth (Tyler) Leatherman, and Matthew Nowak.

Kristen is now at peace. Her family will miss her dearly, but will use her strength as a guide to help them in the days ahead. Her parents will love her always.