Kathryn Maureen (Johnson) Ferrie, a spiritual being on an earthly journey, returned home to Heaven on July 11, 2015. Kate, a beloved resident of Helena, Montana, was a strong woman with wisdom rooted in her Catholic faith and a smile for every person (or animal) she loved. All who met Kate can attest to her loving, joyful spirit. She understood what J.R.R. Tolkien meant when he wrote, “Not all who wander are lost.”
Kate began her journey in Richmond, California, born to Les and Lorraine Johnson October 8, 1951. She married Patrick Ferrie, whom she loved deeply, in Dixon California September 14, 1974. All three proceeded her in their journeys. Despite her losses and facing the foe of cancer, Kate was not afraid of death and quoted Amelia Josephine Burr, “Because I have loved life, I have no sorrow to die.”
In 1998, Kate earned her second Bachelor of Arts Degree and graduated from Carroll College as a writer. A natural and prolific storyteller, Kate taught English Literature and Religion at St. Andrews School. Each of her students had a special place in her heart, and she loved to teach the work of J.R.R. Tolkien. She also taught a simple prayer: “Jesus, I trust in you.”
Kate is survived by two daughters of Helena, Montana: Erin Ferrie Miller (Jason) and Molly LaChere (Gerald); and nine grandchildren: Quincy, Ryleigh, Krystal, Aidan, Kevin, Carly, Tyler, Marcella and Annaliese. She is survived by her sister Lori Hubele (Joachim); brothers David Johnson and Joe Johnson (Debbie); Aunt Evelyn Manion; sister-of-the heart Charli Mills; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, whom she loved with all her heart.
A public viewing will be held 5:00 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2015 at Retz Funeral Home, 315 E. 6th Avenue. A Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 16 at Retz funeral Home. A Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. Friday, July 17, 2015 at the Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N Ewing Street, Helena, MT. A reception will be held in the Brondel Center of the Cathedral immediately following the mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to two of Kate’s joys in life: Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N Ewing Street, Helena, MT 59601 or St. Andrews School in Helena, 1900 Floweree Street , Helena, MT 59624 or to donor’s choice. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Kate.
Service Schedule
Viewing
5:00 p.m.
Thursday July 16, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Rosary
6:00 p.m.
Thursday July 16, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
12:00 noon
Friday July 17, 2015
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N Ewing Street
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the Mass
Friday July 17, 2015
Brondel Center Of the Cathedral
,
Service Schedule
Viewing
5:00 p.m.
Thursday July 16, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Rosary
6:00 p.m.
Thursday July 16, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
12:00 noon
Friday July 17, 2015
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N Ewing Street
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the Mass
Friday July 17, 2015
Brondel Center Of the Cathedral
,
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Rebekka Dodge says
What a beautiful and light-filled spirit was this wonderful woman. So full of faith and always thinking of others. She loved children and animals. It fills me with joy just to think of her. My deepest sympathy to the LaChere family. Some people lead quietly by example, and she was one of those. What a privilege to have worked with with her.
Michelle Field says
The world is a better place because of Kate. She impacted many lives with her steadfast faith, joyful countenance, and fortitude. Students at St. Andrew School looked forward to her classes, and our love for her grew with every uplifting story our daughter shared about her time in class with Mrs. Ferrie. Kate encouraged me during my own trial with cancer, and any encounter left me with the gift of courage and peace she radiated.
-The Field Family
Christina Hay says
I cleaned Kate’s room at St.Peter’s Hospital while she was here, I always encouraged her to get better and she said that she would. She was a very caring person and she liked the way that I took the time to cheer her up. To Kate’s Family, all of you will be in my prayers, even though I am a housekeeper right now, I will never forget Kate.
Christina Hay
(Chrissy)
terry lopez says
i remember all the events we went to together in the SCA… she was a wonderful generous woman. Her gentle soul will be missed.
Fred and Judy Bakke says
Dear Quincy and Erin & family,
So sorry to hear of your loss, God be with her and you family at this time.
The Dunbar family says
Mrs. Ferrie was our daughter’s favorite teacher because of her patience and love for each of her students. She was a very special lady who would take students on a journey with each story and encourage them to use their individual imaginations to learn from the tales they read. Our daughter always felt a special connection with her and wanted to do the best she could because she knew Mrs. Ferrie was sincere in her care for her student. She was a gentle soul who will have a lasting impact on anyone who knew her! We loved our last conversation with her and will cherish her memory! Thank you for Mrs. Ferrie! God’s blessing to all your family as they say good-bye to one of the good ones!
Jim, Jackie and Emily Dunbar
Liz Gundersen says
Kate was a remarkable person and mom – her love for Erin and Molly was so strong and supportive. All those broken arms Molly had during her young gymnastic years!
Kate nourished the spirit and pluck of her daughters – and I am sure her grandchildren received the same love. I am holding you all in my heart.