Grace Irene Kunz

Dr. Grace Irene Kunz, Professor Emerita, Iowa State University, passed away February 19, 2023 in Mission, Kansas. She was born August 23,1940 in Spencer, Iowa. Grace grew up in a farming family and attended Cornell School. She earned her BS and MS in Textiles and Clothing, and her Ph.D. in Higher Education from Iowa State University. She married Daniel in 1963 and they had two daughters, Dana and Debra. They later divorced. Grace lived in Ames, Iowa teaching apparel merchandising courses at Iowa State University for 32 years. She served on numerous committees and was continually pioneering curriculum. Grace was internationally known by the three textbook series that she wrote or co-authored that were widely adopted by other universities. During her career, Grace was honored with seven awards for Excellence in Teaching and Academic Advising, and the prestigious appointment as a Fellow of the ITAA, International Textile and Apparel Association. After she retired the first time, Grace was requested to be the twelve-month Interim Chair of the department. After her re-retirement in 2007, Grace moved to Belle Plaine, Minnesota, and then to Mission, KS to be near her daughter Debra. Grace enjoyed Hosta gardening, inventing new recipes, researching the apparel industry, writing cookbooks, and watching basketball, football, and tennis. She pioneered new ways to solve problems, was a voice of wisdom, and prioritized helping others. Grace shared her big laugh, cooking tips, grounded wisdom, and hosta starts with many friends. Preceding her in death is ex-husband Daniel, sister Joyce, brother Darrel, and nephew Jeff. Grace is survived by her daughters Debra Kunz of Mission, Kansas and Dana Kunz (Eric Miller) of Park City, Utah, sister-in-law Carole of Spencer, Iowa, and many nephews, nieces, colleagues, friends, and students. To continue Grace’s legacy, a scholarship has been set up in her name through the Iowa State University Foundation for future apparel students. Visit this link to donate any amount and enter your contribution where you see “Dr. Grace I Kunz Scholarship.” www.foundation.iastate.edu/Kunz

Tributes

Grace Irene Kunz

August 23, 1940 - February 19, 2023