Kimberly Astin

Kimberly Astin was born on August 6, 1965 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Curtis Summers Astin and Carolyn Bowers.  She passed away on February 16, 2024, after a short battle with an aggressive cancer. Kim was raised in Salt Lake and attended local schools, where she made lifelong friendships.

She graduated from the University of Utah, which included a Study Abroad in Siena, Italy.  This was followed by post-graduate classes at Westminster College. While at the University she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. After graduation, she moved to Jackson Hole, and later Afton, Wyoming, where she worked for Lower Valley Power and Light as the Director of Communication.  After a few years she returned to Utah for family.  When an opportunity presented itself, she moved to Westminster, Colorado. Several years later, she returned to Utah again, (collecting friends along the way).

As a career, Kim was a communicator through words as a copywriter, editor, creative writer (published), magazine contributor, marketing specialist freelance writer, etc. Everywhere she worked she made friends and cherished these friendships. Kim had many interests and enjoyed the outdoors, especially at the family cabin, “Holiday Park” in the high Unitas.  

She also loved animals, especially her dog Hudson, art, music and concerts.  She had an adventuresome spirit and liked road trips. Friendships made while working at Franklin Covey (1990s) led to writing seminars and art trips to New Mexico.  Visits to Abiquiu have a significant meaning.  These road trips are still going on today. (Abiquiu friends). After her Study Abroad, Kim made a point of scheduling time to see other parts of the world.  This included travel to many countries in Europe; usually for pleasure but sometimes for work.  She was lucky to visit Italy several times, which was, of course, her favorite.

Kim’s creativity could be seen in the beautiful jewelry she made.  She was trained as a silversmith and used other metals, as well.  She collected stones from her travels to incorporate into her jewelry and participated in art shows with her designs. Her love and spirit will be missed by many.  

Preceded in death by her father, Curtis; survived by her mother, Carolyn, as well as extended family, and many beloved friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 5-7 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Guests are encouraged to use parking and entrance located on the north side of the building.