Mrs. Nelda Kleinschmidt

Philanthropist donated $1.8 million to target colon cancer and lymphoma

In 2001, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center received $1.8 million from Seattle resident Nelda Kleinschmidt, who made the contribution from her late husband Ralph's estate. At the time it was one of the largest individual gifts in the Center's history.

The Kleinschmidts were always staunch supporters of the Hutchinson Center, and before Ralph passed away in 1999, he made a special consideration to the Center in his will. Through his estate, Ralph set up a charitable trust for Nelda. This trust was to pay income to her for her life. Following her death, the remainder of the trust was to go to the Center. Nelda dissolved the trust and made a gift of the assets. She asked that proceeds be used to forward research into colon cancer and lymphoma.

It was Nelda's hope that this expression of support would let the leadership and staff at the Center know that their efforts continue to be recognized and respected.

The Center greatly appreciates this generous gift as well as Nelda's continued support.

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