Katherine Frances Doeden passed away Monday afternoon June 11, 2018 at the Swedish Medical Center in Denver, Colorado after suffering a ruptured brain aneurysm early Sunday morning at her home in Miles City. She slipped away peacefully surrounded by her son, brother, sister-in-law, and niece. She was 75 years old.
Kathy was born on September 17, 1942 in Los Angeles, California the first child of Frank and Lorene Speth. They moved around and lived in various towns in southern California, before settling in La Mesa, where she went to high school. She excelled at school and having a higher than average I.Q., she graduated from Gross Mont High at the age of 16. She then went on to the University of California, Davis for a short time before transferring to UC Berkeley. She graduated from there in 1963 with a degree of Bachelor of Arts with a Major in History. Kathy was not one to be content or idle and in the early 90’s she got her Masters in English and Literature via online.
In 1965 at a restaurant next to the North Island naval base near San Diego, she was swept off her feet by a dashing young naval aviator named Jerry Doeden, who was dared to ask her if she wanted to sit with him. She agreed and they were married six months later on December 11, 1965. Kathy thought she was marrying a career pilot and live the good life – boy was she in for a shock! Two months later in February of 1966, Jerry moved her from Southern California to Eastern Montana in the middle of a bad winter. As they drove up and the weather continued to worsen, Kathy didn’t speak to Jerry from Belle Fourche, SD all the way to Miles City.
After settling into Miles City, Kathy taught English at Custer County High School for several years before going to work in the family business – Doeden Construction Company. She also went back into teaching as a substitute teacher in the mid to late 80’s. Her sons and their friends remember the pleasure of having her in the classroom.
While starting up a family in Miles City, Kathy raised three boys – Dirk (1969), Eric (1971), and her husband Jerry. Their house on Tompy Street was always open to family and friends and whomever her boys dragged home. She was always willing to do anything for her two sons and their friends and there are a lot of great memories from that house and time.
Kathy was always busy in the community and the State of Montana. She was especially involved and instrumental with the evolution of the Water Works Art Museum and a member of the Montana Historical Preservation Society, for which she received many honors and awards.
Kathy loved taking and sharing pictures and her photo albums are something that will be treasured forever. She loved traveling with her family and friends and has been all over this country and the world. She went on many adventures with her husband – “Mr. Fun”, and their good friends Harold and Shirley Gierke, always bringing back great stories and photos.
Having been raised in Southern California, Kathy always enjoyed going back to visit her brother Steve, his wife Gretchen and their kids Jeff and Jenna. She especially enjoyed the ocean and watching the sun set into it with family and friends and a glass of wine. Kathy also had a house in Red Lodge, Montana which she enjoyed spending time at as well, no matter the season or reason.
Kathy had many great accomplishments and achievements in life – too many to list here and for those of us lucky enough to have known her, we will forever remember her energy, her kindness, her generosity and willingness to help all others before herself, her love and devotion to family, her laughter and her beautiful smile.
Kathy was an amazing woman and although she was taken from us suddenly and too early, we were blessed to have her in our lives. She raised two fine sons and “Mr. Fun”, who loved her more than anything. She was the greatest wife, the best mother to Dirk, Eric and their friends, an awesome grandmother, mother-in-law, aunt, and the best big sister Steve ever had, and a great friend to all those who knew her.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Lorene Speth of Southern California. She is survived by her husband Jerry, her sons Dirk (Jonette) Doeden, Eric (Lori) Doeden, grandchildren: Bridger, Hunter, Jakob, Tate and Boone all of Miles City; her brother Steve (Gretchen) Speth, nephew Jeff Speth, niece Jenna (Brandon) Angus all from Southern California; sister-in-law Michelle (Butch) Kochel of Billings and their children Jared and Abby and her dog Bell.
The family would like to acknowledge all of their friends and the community for their overwhelming support, condolences, kind gestures, thoughts and prayers. It is much appreciated and a testament to what a wonderful woman she was and the family she raised and we thank you all. A special thanks of gratitude to the crew of Doeden Construction for all they do and giving us this time.
Kathy did make it know that she did not want any funeral services and the family is trying to honor her wishes. There may be a Celebration of Life at a later date. She wanted people to celebrate her life in their own way – perhaps by planting some flowers, watching the sunset, having a margarita or a cocktail with family and friends. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Share
Keith and Linda Haker says
She was such a wonderful lady and friend. Our sincere condolences to Jerry, Eric, Dirk and your families. Keith and Linda
Jody Braunschweig says
Kathy was a fantastic friend to me when I was new to Miles City! My heart to all her family! So many people lost a great friend!
Keith & Barb Hoover says
Many prayers to all of the family.
We love you
Laure Roswell says
Dirk,Erick,Jonette and families,
So sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was such a fun and talented lady, I have lots of fond memories of her! You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Laure Minow Roswell
Arlene corbin says
My dearest and best friend. I will miss and love you forever .
Glen and Teena Bollinger says
To the Doedon family,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our deepest sympathy to all the family, Are thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless!
Glen and Teena Bollinger
Rick & Dee Abbott says
Jerry, Dirk & Jonette, Erik & Lori and families: We were shocked and saddened to learn of Kathy’s death. We enjoyed the times we visited with her and discussed the history of the Miles City area. Each of you are in our prayers for God’s solace, peace and comfort.
Sharon & Stan Clelland says
Oh I am so sorry and sending prayers to the Doeden families and Jerry. We just never know what is ahead of us. I didn’t know Kathy real well but knew all of her childreb ( the 2 boys) and their wonderful families and I know how devastated they are. Prayers to all of these families and I pray God will put his healing hands on them. Hang onto your precious memories during this sad time in your life. Blessings to all of you.
Beth Ann says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Doug and Beth Ann Wiedeman
Rebecca Kane says
Jerry and family,
What a loss for the Doedens and extended family. Kathy is someone I always admired; she had many interests, real class, a kind spirit. I loved her laugh. We really enjoyed visiting at the neighbood pool Splash. I add my thoughts and prayers to the many coming your way.
Rebecca Kane
Tyler and Julie Cook says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time.
Tammy Mallett Pecha says
So sorry for your loss.You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark Browning says
Through the continuous efforts of Kathy Doeden, Miles City, and especially its arts and humanities network, saw benefits that richened her adopted hometown. She was a founding officer of the now, Waterworks Art Museum and its Foundation where she counted decades of service while, at the same time, worked towards the town’s historic preservation efforts. She’ll be remembered as a good, true friend and fine citizen.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
Jerry, Dirke, Eric and families: I am so, so sorry for the terrible loss of a great wife, Mother, Grandmother and friend. My heart goes out to each and every one of you. I will never forget this classy history teacher from many years ago or the wonderful citizen of this world that Kathy was!
Darbie Karch and family says
Sending prayers for your families at this difficult time. May God guide and comfort u all. Heaven gained a special angel.
Damian Corbin says
I loved her so very much. She was my mother’s best friend all of my life and she shared in all of my life’s joys. Our hearts are broken.
Lee Akers says
Kathy was such a pleasant and cultured lady. One of my early acquaintances in Miles City, Kathy was a friend.
Jean jones says
Doeden Family,
Kathy was a Jewell. She set standards and goals and worked hard. The shock is profound and my prayers go out to you all. Wrap your souls in the memories.
Prayers
Jean Jones
Sandy Short says
Kathy was a gracious neighbor, enduring our barking dog Lisa for many years. She was a loyal wife, staying in cold MT winters with Jerry. She was a devoted mother to her two boys and molded Dirk and Eric into good citizens. She was a smart, capable lady. Her vision of an art center in old water tanks was beyond my imagination but is now one of my favorite places. She will be greatly missed. Peace be with all of you at this difficult time. Sandy
JR & Carol Bean says
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved mom and wife. Kathy was one of the strongest and goal-oriented women I have ever met. She will be missed in so many ways. God Bless and Prayers for comfort!
Sydney Sonneborn says
To the Doeden Family,
Such a shock to me this morning receiving a email from Mark Browning, of Kathy’s passing. (I now live in Southern California).
I have many pleasant memories of working with Kathy on converting the water settling tanks of the old water plant into a unique art center and the years beyond of the shows and social events. Miles City and I will miss her very much! She was an important asset to the Art Center and the Art Center Foundation, spanning about 42 years in all. You all have my deepest sympathy.
Dave & Jean Wheeler says
Jean and I were shocked when we heard of Kathy’s passing. She was a great lady. Our sympathy is with the entire Doeden family
Shorty&Judy Brush says
Our Sympathy goes out to the Doeden Family Praying for God to give you all the strength now and in the days to come
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
Doeden Family, Our condolences on your loss of Kathy, wife, mother, and grandmother. Your whole Family is in our thoughts and prayers. She will be greatly missed by all. Sincerely, Diane and Doug
Scott Johnson says
Sorry for your loss Dirk, Eric and Jerry.
Rob Shipley says
Kathy Doeden was not only a smart, refined and elegant lady, she was truly intellectual. I cannot ever remember when she did not greet me as cordially as she met everyone she ever knew. She was one of America’s truest ever sweethearts; a wonderful wife and companion, a superb loving mother, and, she always knew very well of whatever she spoke. This is not too wide of the mark, but, Kathy Doeden was a great deal like the Holy Spirit, always there, always observing, always willing to assist; and, always effervescing love like her heart was a fountain.
She will be greatly missed that is a given; and, her place in GOD’s eternal Heaven will truly be among the legends of all of Miles City and southeastern Montana as well.
All my love,
Rob Shipley
Sharon Bixler Oftedal says
There’s no question that Kathy was one of the most intelligent and talented people I’ll ever know. And she was generous with that knowledge and talent. I don’t have to look very far in our home to see a wall hanging she made me (complete with our cattle brand), a favorite recipe, or a map of our ranch which she gave me shortly after my parents died. That is undoubtedly one of my most prized possessions.
As her family and many close friends look around, I know they’ll find precious gifts that Kathy gave them too Treasure those and the memories–they’re invaluable. And please know we’re thinking of all of you.
Sharon Oftedal
Dean Holmes says
our love to Jerry and Family. Our prayers are with you all. You will miss a very fine person.
Dawn Colton says
Kathy was such a wonderful person and a lady in every sense of the word – I will always miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Bryan & Shannon Holmen says
OUR SYMPATHY
Merry and Armando says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time.
Jerry and Sue Backlund says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Jerry and your entire family. Katherine was a wonderful person who contributed so much to our community and she will be missed.
Dennis and Chris Young says
We are so sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. We are thinking of you all.
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Jerry, Dirk, Eric and families:
So sorry to learn of Kathy’s passing. We have great memories with your family from the old neighborhood on Tompy, overall good friendships, and professional associations. Kathy was classy! She will be missed. Best wishes to all.
Pam Rogge says
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and in the days ahead.
Joe Herbold says
Sympathies to the Doeden family
Sandy McFarland-Hays says
Sending prayers and condolences to Jerry and family during this difficult time. Cherish all the wonderful memories.
Ally Gierke says
Kathy was, to me, always someone to look up to. And I did, since I was a kid. She was so cool, so smart, so fashionable! All around awesome woman to know, and I feel lucky that I did. I am heartbroken that I’ll never see her again. A terrible loss. Jerry, Eric & Lori, Dirk and Jonnette, I’m thinking of you and send my most sincere condolences.
Greg & Michelle Johnston says
An elegant, very intelligent lady. A role model to all of us. She will be missed! We were very fortunate to spend precious times together!
Mary Jo Engebretson says
Eric, Lori and families So very sorry for your loss.
Jennie Hilderman says
So extremely sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person.
Allan Bensley says
314 Missouri ave
So sorry for you loss — this is a great stress in your family and I hope everything goes on
the best — keep a upper lip and work thru it — take care ……
Allan & Nancy Bensley
Deb Bartholomew says
Jerry, Eric, Dirk and Families:
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Kathy was truly a great Lady. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. She was a true Treasure and She will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure your memories as they will help with difficult days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jackie Armstrong says
Our thoughts and blessings are with all Doeden family members. Remember her fondly and well
Jan Munroe says
This is a loss which came much too early. Kathy and I survived Eric and Doug’s camping and fishing adventures, especially one special Mother’s Day. Kathy spoke to my class on Miles City historical architecture and the kids loved it. She was instrumental in the development of our two historical districts and spent so much time and effort in preserving this heritage for the future. I can hear her laughter. May God bless and comfort her family.
Susan Erlenbusch says
Dirk and Jonette,
Kathy sounds as if she were one of a very special kind. We are sorry for your loss.
Jerry and Susan
Glo Simpson says
She was always a class act with kind words. So sorry for all of you. Hugs!
Tom and Lillian Ostendorf says
I am blown away by her passing. Love and hugs to you all.
Travis & Brittany Kiel says
Dirk, Jonette, kids and Eric, Lori and kids: We are deeply saddened by the loss of Kathy and pray for great strength and the power of family/loved ones as you celebrate her life! May you find peace in all of the great memories you share!
We love you,
Brittany and Travis
Jim and Carol Watts says
so sorry for your loss, sending love and prayers
Brad and Patti Bredeson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.We will treasure the memories we shared, and will miss Kathy dearly.
Russell and Milly Reierson says
Our Thoughts are with the Doeden family.We were blessed to have spent time with her ,she was a wonderful lady.
Maureen Larson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time. So very sorry for your loss.
Richard & Linda Meidinger says
Jerry and family we are so sad to hear of your loss. May your beautiful memories and family photos help you through this difficult time. You are as ll in our thoughts and prayers.
Cherie Dyba says
Thinking of your family at this time of a magnificent loss. May you be comforted by family and friends, and all who are praying for your family.
Garth Sleight says
I did not have the privilege and pleasure of knowing Kathy; however, I do know people who call her mom and grandma. My sincere condolences to all of the Doeden family. She left you much too soon. My best wishes go to each of you as you work through the hard times ahead.
Eileen and Vern Entzel says
So sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time.