Askren, Kathleen A. 1948-2024 Tucson, Ariz.
By NewsPress Now
TUCSON, Ariz. – Kathleen (Hinckley) Askren, 75, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 13, 2024, at her home in Tucson.
Kathleen “Kathy” was a loving mother, grandmother “Nonny”, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.
She is survived by her sons, Skip (Jacque) and Toby; stepson, Mark; four grandchildren; five great- grandchildren; four brothers, Jim (Pam), Dan (Nenita), Tim (Sarah), and David (Candy); and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is now re-united with her husband, Skip Sr.; parents, James and Margaret Hinckley; brother-in-law, Leon; and stepdaughter, Keri.
Kathy was born in St. Joseph in March of 1948. Growing up in a Catholic household, Kathy attended Co-Cathedral, St. Francis Xavier, and Bishop LeBlond High School, graduating in the class of 1966. She was a remarkable role model for her four younger brothers, whom she helped care for and raise until she left for college to attend The University of Kansas.
After receiving a degree in Physical Therapy, Kathy moved to Tucson to embark on her career in patient rehabilitation. Shortly after arriving in Tucson, she met the love of her life, Skip Sr., whom she wed in April of 1971. Throughout their careers, they traveled from Tucson to Colorado to California, while raising their two boys, Skip and Toby. Upon returning to Tucson, Kathy and Skip left their careers behind and ventured into the floral industry.
She began by opening her store, The Wicker Broker, where she enjoyed teaching crafts and floral design. Eventually, she moved on from retail and joined her husband in the wholesale industry, where she continued to apply her creative skills. Not only did Kathy have a gift to tell stories through her displays, but her hard work and devotion contributed to the success and beauty of Askren and Sons Wholesale. Aside from her passion for flowers, she loved gardening, books, ballet, and most of all, her dogs and grandchildren.
Kathy had a selfless personality and touched so many lives. Her legacy will live on forever. She can now join hands with her husband, Skip Sr., to watch over what they had started 52 years ago.
In lieu of flowers, you may contribute to Ballet Tucson or a charity of your choice in her memory. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
