Kathy M Olsen

Katherine McCormick Olsen died of cancer at her home in Bonners Ferry on Wednesday, July 1,2009. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 10:00am in St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Bonners Ferry, Idaho with interment following in the Moravia Cemetery. Granddaughter of two pioneering families, Jack and Molly Conway of Moravia' and George and Katherine McCormick of Leonia, Kathy was born to John Hamilton and M. Aileen Conway McCormick in Bonners Ferry on September 22, 1942. In 1943 the family moved to Coeur d' Alene where Kathy attended Sherman Grade School and St. Thomas Grade School. She graduated from 1. H. M. Academy in 1960 and then attended North Idaho Junior College. Kathy worked for the United States Forest Service in Coeur d' Alene until 'her marriage to Merle Olsen in 1968. She also worked for the U.S.F.S. in Sandpoint prior to the birth of her daughter Maureen in 1975. After farming-at Moravia-for many years, she-felt privileged to join the U.S.F.S. in Bonners Ferry for the remaining years of her working life. Kathy was a parishioner at St. Ann's Catholic Church where she was an active member of St. Ann's Altar Society. She enjoyed 30 years of friendships in Beta Sigma Phi, and for many years was also a member of Idaho Cattle Women. Her interests included music, reading, quilting, and regional history. While on the farm, Kathy maintained a beautiful yard and garden, and flowers were always an important part of her life. She truly enjoyed people and was known for her kindness and hospitality. Kathy is survived by sisters Margo McCormick of Troy, Montana, Pat (Vance) Ekwortzell of Sandpoint, brother George (Mary) McCormick of Hayden, and daughter and-son-in-law Maureen and-Ryan Mai, husband Merle Olsen of Bonners Ferry, Idaho and grandson' Dillon Mai of Moravia. She is also survived by nieces Tricia Ekwortzell and Elizabeth McCormick and nephew James McCormick, as well as Rachel Olsen and Dale and Mary Olsen and their children Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Brad of Spokane. Kathy shared special longtime friendships with Judy Pruitt of Spokane and Donna Irons of Bonners Ferry. The family suggests memorials to Bonner Community Hospice, St. Ann's Altar Society, or Community Cancer Services. Family and friends are invited to sign Kathy’s book at www.bonnersferryfuneralhome.com Arrangement are entrusted to the care of Bonners Ferry Funeral Home.