Kathleen Fritsch

May 5, 1944 - February 14, 2021

Kathleen Margie Fritsch “As these long hours have gone on, we no longer see her in the hospital or remember her struggles of the past. We will forever only remember and see Kathleen as this photo shows, the beautiful woman she was, that great smile, her awesome personality and loving, caring self. She is missed dearly by her family and many friends, but we know in our hearts that she is having a great time, has a giant walk-in closet filled with shoes, outfits, matching jewelry and looking amazing. She is scheduling tee times, playing cards with friends, making lunch and coffee dates and experiencing real live shopping, not just on line.” These are the sentiments of Coral Campbell, her friend and virtual caretaker during her last few months. Kathleen was blest with many friends who generously gave of their time, taking her to medical appointments in Billings and generally looking after her. Kathleen Margie Fritsch was born May 5, 1944 in Spokane WA to Evelyn Hayes Fritsch (Taber) and Glen Fritsch. She died in the early morning hours of February 14, 2021 at Glendive Medical Center in Glendive MT. Kathleen’s passing was painless and she did not linger, talking about her dogs at the time. Kathleen graduated from Dawson County High School with her classmates in 1962. From there she attended the University of MT and then Dickinson State University, graduating in 1966 with degrees in Theatre and English. After a short teaching stint, Kathleen went on to receive her law degree from Gonzaga University. She practiced law in Glendive for a number of years before returning to teaching, eventually retiring from Dawson Community College. Thespian, athlete, card shark, artist, editor…Kathleen was capable, multi-talented and street smart. She put her acting skills to use in the Glendive Follies, was often sought out to emcee at various functions, and always gave of her talents when asked. Kathleen loved telling a good story or otherwise entertaining a captive audience. Comments from family and friends: “She had this wonderful ability to make me smile.” Trip to visit her niece in NYC: “She made friends with neighbors I didn’t even know I had.” New boy to our Kendrick Ave neighborhood: “She was my first friend and she was a girl!’ Another niece: “She turned 33 and I said ‘wow that’s really old’ and she said ‘yeah but I have this awesome car!’ (it was that purple thing she bought – might’ve been a mustang)”. The last survivor of the Illinois Fritsch families who settled around Hodges, MT, Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband Don Plaggman, her parents Evelyn and Glen, and her half brother, Jack Taber. She is survived by her sister Linda Fasching (Dale) of Billings. Nieces and nephews (whom she loved as her own) Christine Fasching-Writesel, Billings and Paulette Fasching, Miami, FL; Damon Fasching (Tyler) of San Francisco, CA and Michael Fasching, Billings. Grandnieces Lhanna Writesel, Missoula and Sophia Writesel and Grandnephew James Writesel, Billings. In death, as in life, Kathleen continues her giving ways as an organ donor. No services are planned at this time, but a gathering of friends and family will happen when circumstances permit.