Kathryn Roberts

Kathryn passed away at home on August 14, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Bonita (Bonnie) Roberts. Survived by her husband, James (Jim) Hiniker; sister, Sarah Campbell (John); brother, John Roberts (Anne); her daughter, Alexandra Hausler (Kiel); stepsons, Jay (Betsy) and Micheal (Kerri) Hiniker; stepmother, Marilyn Roberts and six grandchildren. Kathryn was born in 1951 in Worthington. Earning a PhD at 27, she went on to have a remarkable career spanning five decades, serving under five governors representing three political parties, and leading some of Minnesota’s most iconic non-profits, including the Minnesota Zoo where she was one of the first female Zoo Directors, and as President and CEO of Ecumen. As a leader, she was committed to lifting up the next generation of women leaders. Kathryn was also a grand-champion knitter, completed crosswords in ink, and never met an animal she didn’t want to pat. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will take place at a time when COVID is no longer a serious crisis. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kathryn’s memory to the Minnesota Zoo or the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota.