Kim Ellen Gutting (Hedstrom) of Christiansted, Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, passed away peacefully in her sleep at age 71.
She was born Feb. 9, 1953, in Kane, Penn., to Donald Hedstrom and Irene Bamat.
She is survived by her beloved partner, James Maxwell; three daughters: Bethany (Brian) Kelly, Bridget Gutting (Chris Pitassy) and Jolie (Nick) Kaufmann; her grandchildren: Michael and Jillian Schroeder, and Izabella Kaufmann; her brother, Jim Hedstrom; and many nieces and nephews.
She will also be remembered through Bethany and Brian’s son, her grandson, who is expected to arrive in July.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her stepfather, Robert Bamat.
Kim grew up in Kane, Penn., before graduating from Mercyhurst College in Erie, Penn. She remained in Erie, where she raised her family with her former husband, Stephen Gutting, and eventually worked as a classroom aid at the Barber National Institute caring for children and teenagers with disabilities. Kim’s work at the Barber Center showcased her kind, patient and fun demeanor.
Kim instilled in her girls a sense of adventure. She loved to travel and explore new places. She was drawn to the Caribbean and eventually relocated to her dream home, Saint Croix, with her life partner, James Maxwell. Kim and James built a wonderful life on Saint Croix, which included many new friends, thanks to her ‘gift of gab’ and ability to make a connection with everyone she met.
Whether she was waiting in line at the grocery store or getting on a rollercoaster (one of her favorite activities), she couldn’t help but strike up a conversation and connect with a stranger.
Following Kim’s wishes, she will be cremated, and her ashes will be spread during yet another adventure. A private celebration of Kim’s life will be scheduled for this fall. Memorial donations can be made to the ASPCA or PBS WHYY.
Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver PA 15009. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.
