Kathryn Lynn Nelson was born September 11, 1960, in Plentywood, MT to Robert and Esther Fossum. She joined a brother Leslie (Bernie) Fossum. Kathy grew up in Medicine Lake, MT where she attended school and graduated in 1979. During her high school years, she was a cheerleader and member of the pep club all four years. As a soprano in swing choir, she attended The Montana State Music Festival for three years and was a member of the speech and drama team for three years. Kathy went to The State Class C track meet in javelin. She was homecoming queen her senior year of Medicine Lake High School.

After graduating from high school, Kathy attended Missoula for a short time and went on to graduate from beauty school. She enjoyed her years of doing hair in many cities. She also enjoyed tending bar at The Radisson in Bismarck, ND, The FourWinds in Plentywood, MT, and The Club in Medicine Lake, MT. Regardless of where she worked, Kathy enjoyed being with people. Everyone that met Kathy loved her. Her smile was bright, and her laugh was infectious.

Kathy enjoyed fishing, gardening, road trips, and anything that involved her friends, her family, and a cold beer. She also enjoyed going to the Sturgis Bike Rally with Al. She and Bernie shared a special bond that created many memories.

Kathy passed away peacefully at Sidney Health Center in Sidney, MT December 13, 2023, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Kathy is survived by her brother Leslie (Bernie) Fossum of Medicine Lake, MT, sister-in-law Anna Snellman of Medicine Lake, MT, nephews Levi (Stephanie) Fossum of Homestead, MT, and Page Fossum of Bozeman, MT, great nephews Teegan Fossum and Kline Fossum of Homestead, MT, boyfriend Al Stanford of Culbertson, MT and many, many dear friends that she loved like family.

Kathy is preceded in death by her parents Robert and Esther Fossum.

"She was one of the kindest people I have ever known, and everyone loved her."

Memorial Contribution