Kathy Jean Mergen, 60, of Grinnell, IA passed away on August 22, 2022. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, August 29, 2022, at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Rev. Dr. Joel Koepp officiating. A luncheon will follow the service at the church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, 1 hour prior to the service at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Memorial contributions may be designated to Immanuel Lutheran Church and mailed in c/o the Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Kathy was born on August 21, 1962 in Emmetsburg, IA to Kenneth L. and Janice M. (Schultz) Mergen. She graduated from Hartley High School with the class of 1980. After high school she studied for 2 years at Morningside University in Sioux City, IA before transferring to University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 1985. Kathy worked in the insurance industry, taking her to different states around the country. Before settling in Grinnell, a few years ago, she lived in the Chicago area working for MetLife Insurance. Kathy last worked for Prudential Insurance as a long-term disability claims specialist. Kathy was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. She will be remembered for her love of animals, especially cats. She was known to help her neighbors with taking care of their pets. Kathy is survived by her parents Kenneth L. and Janice M. Mergen; brothers, Keith (Heidi) Mergen, and Lynn (Sheree Lahue) Mergen; and her nieces and nephews.