Kathy Jean Schwartz

Kathy Jean (Fuhriman) Schwartz, 69, passed away on March 16, 2026, in Gillette, Wyoming. Kathy was born November 16, 1956, in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada, to Dale and Rula Jean (Isaacson) Fuhriman. She was the oldest child. She grew up in Malad, Idaho, where she graduated from Malad High School, Class of 1974.

After high school, at age 18, Kathy married Kevin Davis Schwartz, and together they built a life rooted in hard work, resilience, and family. They moved from Malad to Casper, Wyoming, before eventually settling in Gillette in 1996.

Kathy was known for her strong work ethic and determination. From a young age, she worked alongside her mother at the Deep Creek Inn, and after moving to Wyoming she held many roles over the years, including gas station manager, house cleaner, and being the “FedEx lady” for 31 years.

She was feisty, hardworking, and incredibly talented, and was an angel earth. Kathy was a cornerstone in the lives of those who knew her—someone you could count on, someone who showed up, and someone who loved deeply. Her strength and presence left a lasting mark on her family and friends.

Kathy’s happiest moments were spent in the simple, beautiful places she loved most—on a mountain or on a lake. But more than anything, her greatest joy came from time spent with her family, her friends, and especially her beloved granddaughters.

Those who knew Kathy also knew she had special gifts—she was the best shopper, stacker, packer, and vacation planner, always making sure everything, and everyone, was taken care of. She was also known as the “cookie monster,” never passing up a sweet treat and always enjoying cookies whenever she could.

She is survived and deeply mourned by her husband, Kevin; her son, Kenneth Ivan; her daughter, Karla Jean; her daughter-in-law, Heather; and the lights of her life, her two granddaughters, Gracie and Guinevere, who all brought her immense joy and pride. She also leaves behind Karla’s partner, Brandon, and his children, whom she cared for and welcomed as part of her extended family, as well as her sister Marti, step-mother Merigene, sister-in-law Teressa, many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandparents, her beloved brothers, several in-laws, and close friends. Per her wishes, no public services will be held.

Kathy will be remembered for her strength, her fierce love, and the way she held her family together. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.