Kathryn Anna Herman, 87

Kathryn Anna Herman, lovingly known as Kathy, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, at Logan Health Whitefish Hospital. She was a resident at The Springs of Whitefish at the time of her passing. Born on September 13, 1936, in Ogallala, Nebraska, to Peter Lehl and Margaret Elizabeth Van Dorsten, Kathy’s life was marked by her deep connections with family and her enduring spirit.

In the early 1940s, Kathy moved with her family to Montana, eventually settling in Missoula, where she attended and graduated from high school. She shared a special bond with her grandmother, Anna Van Dorsten, who held a profound influence in her life.

 Kathy relocated to Columbia Falls in the early 1970s. She was a dedicated and hardworking waitress, known for her resilience and strong work ethic. Outside of work, Kathy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished camping trips, lounging on the patio in good weather, and family gatherings, particularly barbecues and dinners. Reading was a favorite pastime, especially during fishing outings with her late husband, Charles Herman, with whom she shared 42 wonderful years of marriage.

 A true fan of Elvis Presley, Kathy never missed one of his movies upon release. She enjoyed participating in bowling leagues and had a fondness for playing cards and going on drives. As she grew older, her “doodle-bug” electric mobility scooter became a beloved companion, symbolizing her enduring independence and zest for life. Family birthdays were a special highlight for Kathy, who loved bringing everyone together for celebratory dinners.  Kathy also loved being able to spend time listening to her “twang” classic country music and watching any classic western show and movies.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Peter Lehl and Margaret Van Dorsten, her brother Bobby Lehl, her beloved husband Charles Herman, her granddaughter Kayla Davis, and her great-grandson Wyatt Corning. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and many who loved her dearly.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Shelly (Steven) Martin with Austin and Natasha; Wade Wright, Shari Davis with Rocky and Ricky;  Bill (Greta) Freisz with Kelly, Nicole and Melanie; Nicolle (Monti) Arneson with Bryce and Blake;  Jason (Melissa) Herman with Cassandra and Alexah. Along with eight great grandchildren.   Also her siblings, Shirley (Steve) Cochran and Charles (aka Butch) Lehl. Kathy enjoyed her daily phone calls with her sister. 

Wednesdays were “Grandma’s Day”.  Grandkids would look forward to grandma’s house to play with the cousins and going to the special snack drawer.  We all laughed because she didn’t have a driver’s license for many, many, years and she still drove but very cautiously.  She would go on the backroads to the Nite Owl or where there was a traffic light so she could cross the highway. 

May the winds of heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish you were still here mom, grandma, sister and friend.  

Kathy’s wishes were to not have a service.  The family would like to welcome everyone to a Celebration of Life July 6th at 2 p.m. at her daughter Shelly’s, 1825 Riverwood Lane in Columbia Falls.   

Kathy’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the joy found in family, the strength of character, and the importance of simple pleasures.

 Online condolences may be submitted on Kathryn’s Tribute Page at columbiamortuary.com