Dr. Kathryn Jean Kitzmiller

Dr. Kathryn Kitzmiller, 45 (68), of Surprise, Arizona, passed away September 18, 2025, from renal failure complications. She was born in Akron, Ohio and grew up surrounded by family and friends. A proud graduate of Akron North High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science (2001) and Master of Science (2004) degrees from Youngstown State University, where her love of penguins began. She then continued her love for science education at The Ohio State University where she completed her PhD in Immunogenetics (2010). Her passion for education led her to a career as a dedicated college professor, most recently at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, where she also served on GCU’s University Assessment Committee and was an officer for the Central Arizona section of the American Chemical Society. Above her many accomplishments with education in the academic professional world, she will be remembered and missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her mother Sue, best friend/sister, Kristin (Scott Foldi), and brothers Daniel (Rocky) and Jonathan (Allison). She was an active aunt and loved her nieces and nephews with all her heart: River, Kendal, Alex, Isadora, Kaleb, Audrey, Kolton, Kaiden, Karter, Kowen, Kooper and “baby #7”. Her academic life created an Arizona family of coworkers and friends that can never be matched. She will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, zest for life, and being a brilliant chemist. She loved puzzles, hiking, outdoor activities, and cheering on her beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and GCU Lopes where she was a renowned Purple Prof. Katie is now with other beloved family members, most notably her father, Christopher and her beloved dog, Lucy. Family and friends will be gathering in Akron, Ohio on October 18, 2025. Details to be shared once finalized.

– Go Buckeyes!!                            - Go Lopes!!                                    O H  –  I O