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Obituary For Kristen Maureen Nowak
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.
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Mindy Drake sent Ocean Breeze Spray for Kristen Maureen Nowak - March 24, 2026
Mary Kelley sent Sweet Moments for Kristen Maureen Nowak - March 20, 2026
I'm so sorry for your loss. I worked in the lab at Mercy North with Kristen's dad. My condolences to all of you.
Steve , Maureen and Mindy, I have thought so much about all of you since I heard of Kristin's passing . I want you to know that you are in prayers . May God hold you closely during this difficult time .
Steve, Maureen and family, Chuck and I are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. May your memories carry you through the difficult days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.🙏🙏 Chuck and Ruth Gassmann
She was an amazing individual. I cannot even begin to highlight all the great moments I shared as her teacher and as her friend.
Oh my beautiful friend - how I am going to miss you and our never ending baking schemes. I am so glad that I got rhe opportunity to work with you but more importantly call you a friend for all these years. Until we meet again my sweet girl 🩷
I met Kristen over 15 years ago working at Heroes downtown. She was a wonderful person who we all looked forward to working shifts with. May God bless the family.