Katheren Lee Bishop Ancho

Battle Mountain, NV

2/7/1942 - 6/28/2024

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kathy Ancho, a beautiful wife, mother, friend, Mumu, mentor, and cherished member of the Battle Mountain community. Kathy passed peacefully in her home and was welcomed into the light of His face on June 28, 2024. Kathy's life was a testament to family, dedication, love, and service and she leaves an indelible mark on her family, her hometown, and all who knew her.

Kathy Ancho, born February 7, 1942, in Denver, Colorado, to Harry and Enid Bishop, moved to Virginia before her family settled in Gold Acres, NV, where her father took over the Gold Acres Mine as a mining engineer. Kathy attended St. Mary's of the Wasatch Catholic boarding school in Salt Lake City, UT, for four years, graduating in 1959. She was fondly remembered as “stately, warm-hearted, and sociable,” and served as Student Body Treasurer.

Kathy continued her education at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she was an active member of Pi Beta Phi. Her adventurous spirit led her to Seattle to continue her education and model a bit and it was where she fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and its rainy days. However, her deep-rooted love for “home” brought her back to Battle Mountain and her family where she met the love of her life, George Ancho. They married on December 5, 1964, and together they built a beautiful family and life.

Kathy’s greatest joy was her family. She was a dedicated mom, giving everything to her children and grandkids. Her home was her sanctuary and she filled it with unconditional love for her family and all who entered. She was the most generous of hostesses for the revolving door of visitors and if one hit it just right, a short visit led to hours of witty conversation and a home-cooked meal. One of her many beautiful gifts was her knack of making you feel like you were the most important person in the world. She led with love and by example and made many want to do better, be better, and breathe a little easier everyday. She was a voracious reader and wordsmith who loved puzzles and card games and played in a Pinochle club for over 40 years. She volunteered at her kids’ schools, mc’d their events and even coached Little League softball. She liked to boast about leading two teams to the Western Region Championship.

Kathy's commitment to her community was unparalleled. Whatever the endeavor, she poured her heart and soul into it. She was an integral part in the construction of Elquist Park, the Battle Mountain Civic Center, and the expansion of the Battle Mountain General Hospital. Throughout her life, Kathy received numerous accolades, including the 1978 BPW’s Business Woman of the Year and the 1985 LDS’s Great American Award for her remarkable community service, however it was always about creating a better community that drove her, not the recognition. Her civic contributions included being a founding committee member of Elquist Park, a Civic Center Board Member and the Founding Director, and her involvement with JOIN, Inc. Her passion for healthcare led her to serve as CEO of Battle Mountain General Hospital from 1990 to 2004, a Board Trustee from 2007 to 2011, Interim CEO in 2010, and Board Chairwoman from 2012 to 2015. Additionally, she was Chairwoman of the Nevada Rural Hospital Project from 1995 to 1997 and a Board Member of the Nevada Hospital Association, where she received the Outstanding Service Award.

Kathy is survived by her forever husband of 59 years, George, her beloved children: Jill (Mike) Rutherford, Jani (Casey) Kelly, Andy (Kami) Ancho, and Jennifer (Jake) Rivas; and her adored grandchildren: Ryan Rutherford, Alexandra Rutherford, Dane Kelly, Gage Kelly, Karlee Ancho, Ava Ancho, Jude Rivas, and Jones Rivas. She is also survived by her loving extended Bishop and Ancho families.

Kathy Ancho's legacy of family, community, service, and friendship will forever be remembered and cherished. Her contributions and unwavering devotion to Battle Mountain have left an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten and may her light shine within us all. Rest in peace our beautiful Mumu; best mom in the world, lover of words, wisdom sharer, cherished soul.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, August 3, 2024, stop by anytime between 3pm-7pm, at Elquist Park in Battle Mountain. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Kathy Ancho Scholarship which will be used as a scholarship for students going into the field of medicine.

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