Kay Zimmerman ANDREWS OBITUARY
ANDREWS Kay Zimmerman, It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kay Zimmerman Andrews, a remarkably intelligent woman and trailblazer who inspired all fortunate enough to know her. She left this world peacefully on November 14, 2024 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and conviction.
Kay faced a greater number of challenges than most, beginning at just 15 months old when she was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma in her left eye. This aggressive cancer led doctors to predict she would not survive past age four. She successfully battled cancer, but as a result lost her vision completely in both eyes by the age of 10, setting the tone for a life filled with determination. It was her parents who nurtured her confidence; empowering her to not allow her disability to stand in the way of a normal and rewarding existence, something she exceptionally executed.
She excelled academically, always had a profound love for reading, and mastered the complexities of braille to continue her education. She completed her undergraduate studies at Macalester College in St. Paul before moving to Chicago to attend McCormick Theological Seminary. In the late '60s while seeking employment, she faced the reality that congregations were unprepared to accept a female minister. Yet, once again, Kay triumphed and was ordained as a Presbyterian Minister in Grand Rapids, MN.
It was in this church that she first crossed paths with Jay Bischoff, a young man equally devoted to service and mentorship. They fell in love, married and relocated to Fargo, ND to start a family. Facing the uncertainty of passing on eye cancer, Kay and Jay made the decision to adopt a beautiful 10-week old biracial boy named Peter, then a five-year-old boy named Joseph, whose heartfelt story they had come across in the news. All the while, courageously deciding to have their own biological child, Andrew; building a family of five in an extraordinary span of just 10 months. They moved to St. Paul and lovingly fostered many children over the years, creating a warm environment for all. Over time, however, difficulties arose in Kay and Jay's relationship resulting in Kay becoming a single parent and bravely balancing her career while raising her three children.
Kay's perseverance continued throughout the '80s, as she climbed to the position of Executive Director of Northwest Youth & Family Services in Shoreview, MN (now Northeast). In this role, she led and expanded the organization, driven by her vision to offer therapy and support for children and families in conflict. She championed the creation of a new addition for their building which was fittingly named the Kay Andrews wing, leaving a lasting mark on the NYFS community.
After retiring in 2009, she fearlessly overcame breast cancer by her 70th birthday. Seven years later, motivated by her dedication to politics and social justice, she was elected to the Falcon Heights city council. Her focus was on promoting inclusion and safety to mend the scars left by the devastating incidents of police brutality that had affected both the local community and beyond.
Kay's storybook ending gently drew to a close just three weeks after an infection followed by a Dementia diagnosis, a path that we know would have been deeply unwelcome for Kay. She is lovingly remembered by children, Joseph Bischoff, Andy Bischoff (Brittany Bischoff, Jennifer Poncelet), and her chosen daughter (niece), Pam Brabeck, who provided unwavering love and support throughout her life and during her final days. Kay cherished all of her grandchildren: April, Raquel, Aaron, Aja, Makena, Morgan and Jay. She will also be missed by her beloved sister, Jo Hamilton and is preceded in death by sister, Gretchen Murphy and son, Peter Bischoff. Kay's absence will be profoundly felt by her countless friends who accompanied her throughout life, surrounding her with constant affection and encouragement.
Kay Andrews was a powerful force and a pillar of strength. She approached each obstacle with a clever quip, and her sharp ability to navigate while in the passenger seat could outsmart any GPS. She was a confidante who offered a listening ear and insightful guidance to endless friends and family members when they needed it most. While some may say that she faced unfair obstacles, Kay would proudly assert, "I Did It My Way." A Celebration of Life will be planned for Spring 2025.
