Kathy Friesen, 77, died Sunday, October 11, 2020 at the Ranch House in Garden City, Kansas. She was born on May 27, 1943 in Temple, Texas. She was the first of two children born to David and Lydia (Riebsman) Stormont.
Kathy’s family moved often due to David being in the Army. In the spring of 1961, Kathy graduated from Greenich High School in Connecticut. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Kansas, she went on to teach at a variety of schools in the northeastern part of Kansas. Kathy later worked for many years as a continuing education coordinator in the medical field. While attending college, she met Michael Friesen, whom she went on to marry on December 28, 1966 in Hutchinson, Kansas. Kathy and Michael welcomed two children into their lives; Matthew David in May 1978 and Rebecca Ann in February 1981.
Kathy was a member and served as an Elder in the Presbyterian Church in Garden City. She was also an active community member, participating in multiple volunteer programs, including serving on the board of directors for the Tumbleweed Festival. She enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, expressing her musical talents, and always had multiple craft projects going on at once; although nothing beat spending time with her three grandchildren.
Kathy is survived by her two children Matthew Friesen of Garden City, Kansas and Rebecca & husband Matt Butcher of Newton, Kansas; a brother David & wife Christine Stormont; three grandchildren Acacia Friesen, Blake Butcher, & Annelise Butcher; and a multitude of friends. Kathy is preceded in death by her parents; and her husband Michael who died on April 4, 2015.
A Celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at the Presbyterian Church in Garden City. A private family interment will take place at a later date. There will be no calling hours. The family suggests memorials given to the Presbyterian Church in care of Garnand Funeral Home of Garden City.