A former nurse for the University Health Service, who dedicated 24 years of her life to helping others, passed away on Feb. 26.

Kathryn Mapes came to work as a staff nurse in 1968 for the University Health Service. She served as the charge nurse for the infirmary until it closed in 1976 and was later assigned to the NIU Medical Clinic, now known as the University Health Center.

Mapes completed her education and training as a college health nurse practitioner in 1975 at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.

Mapes worked at Health Services for 24 years, but had to retire last May because of her battle with cancer.

“Kay was particularly liked by students who were her patients. She always had a very warm and encouraging way of dealing with people,” said Rosemary Lane, director of University Health Services. “She was always very thoughtful and helpful to the students.”

Mapes passed away peacefully in her sleep, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Throughout her terminal illness, she was cared for by her family and a wide circle of friends.

“She was important enough to the students that many of the students that were here before will remember her and they will want to know that she died,” Lane said.

Lane said she received many positive comments from students over the years on evaluations. Comments written were always thankful for the sympathy and warmness she had shown toward the students, she said.

Kay Johnson, University Health Service registered nurse and colleague of Mapes, said that her spirit, compassion and devotion will be missed by all who had the opportunity to know her.