In Loving Memory of Kirk Wayne Fuzesy
Kirk Wayne Fuzesy was born on September 23, 1957 in Havre, Montana. He passed away peacefully at home after a battle with cancer on September 30, 2025.
Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Betty Fuzesy; his brother, Alan; and his nieces Brianne Fuzesy and Bobbi Ann Cooper.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Carla; their three children: Dick (Jessie) Fuzesy, Rick (Candace) Fuzesy, and Jolene (Kyle) Lloyd. Kirk was a proud grandfather to Daisy (Kaden) Fuzesy, Aaron Fuzesy, Kaylee Lloyd, James Lloyd, Cooper Fuzesy, Jordan Lloyd, and Theodora Fuzesy. He also considered Frank Benson, Jesse Benson, and James Helm as his own family, and is survived by his brother Kim, sister Alyson (Raymond) Ragsdale, many nieces, nephews, the family he chose, and the family who chose him.
Kirk married Carla Shupe on June 11, 1977. They were thrilled to start their family, welcoming Dick, Rick, and Jolene “Babygirl.”
Kirk earned his nursing degree from Northern Montana College and later completed a degree in Health and Physical Education from Montana State University. He dedicated more than twenty years to Harlem Schools as a gym teacher and coach for football, basketball, and baseball. Many of these years, he also worked as a nurse in various nursing homes, following in his father’s footsteps. Kirk’s nursing career spanned over fifty years, continuing until he was unable to work. He often said he would work until someone told him he couldn’t, and he upheld this promise, remaining committed until his health prevented him from doing so.
Kirk cherished being a dad and “poppa,” making it a priority to instill both a love of sports and a strong work ethic in his children and grandchildren from an early age. He took special pride in coaching all three of his children and cheering on his grandchildren in their endeavors. His family was his greatest joy, and he loved them deeply. Ensuring the happiness of his grandkids, children, dogs, and Carla was his top priority. Kirk was happiest when his family was together and everyone would gather each summer in Whitefish MT, his happy place.
In lieu of flowers, Kirk’s family has requested that in remembrance of him, please pay forward an act of kindness or generosity.
Dad
I cherish all the games we played
In noonday sun or evening shade;
Your patience gave me confidence
To be my best in every sense
Thanks for being my Dad and ‘coach,’
In sports and life, the same approach;
It matters less, the winner’s name
Than how the person played the game.
-Ken Brown
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Stephen Munford says
Kirk was a great friend, coach and big bro. He treated me like family. Him and Carla opened their home up to me and my friends like we were family.
He gave so much to others. I always loved his jokes and humor.
The first time I saw Kirk, I really didn’t see him. He few by our middle school bus in that White Mustang Shelby going about 160 mph. Had all of us young guys wishing to have a fast car like that.
Love to the family and our big sis Carla. We love you guys and truly loved Kirk. He was definitely a great example to us young guys to have a giving heart and to give back to others. Thank you Kirk for some awesome memories and laughs. ❤️
Belinda Humphrey says
Kirk was one of the best bosses I have ever worked for ! He cared about his employees and the residents he cared for! He was the one who made sure the truth was told and reprimanded you as seen fit! He never left a bad situation get out of hand. He was very caring! Will miss him!
Jacob Brisbo says
When I moved to Harlem from “Big Warm” Lodge Pole on the Fort Belknap RESERVATION I was welcomed into the Fuzesy family because I grew up playing with Kirks kids Dick and Rick. Kirk was my coach all through my adolescent and teenage years. He taught me how to play baseball when I joined his team “Harlem Lumber” I played with his boys Rick and Dick. I gained so much by being part of something feeling that love from coach and his family was great! I’ll never forget growing up in Harlem, thank you coach for believing in me. You will be missed greatly because you were a great man!
Bill Isbell says
Coach Buzbe was a friend before I moved to Harlem through the softball games we played. Kirk was a loyal friend who practiced integrity which is why I always looked up to him😇🙏🙏
Bev Poff says
I had the pleasure of working with Kirk most recently. I am saddened by his passing. I always found his dry sense of humor and quick wit uplifting on days that things may be busy or chaotic. Kirk always put himself forward in his work was always willing to learn new things and most valuable to me, was his willingness to share his nursing knowledge freely.
Bev P Coworker.
Dale Campbell says
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Thanks coach Kirk
for everything.
anne boothe says
We are sad to hear of Kirk’s passing. He always had a smile for everyone and Kris simply loved him. Prayers and hugs to all, from the Boothe’s – Anne, Dave and Kris.
Stanley Warrior says
Prayers and thoughts to the family.. didn’t know him well but what did know and remember was he was definitely a person everyone looked up to… always had a smile and was welcoming.
Andrea Quintana says
My deepest condolences to Kirk’s wife & family. I hadn’t seen Kirk but remember him well as a classmate. I know he will be greatly missed. Thinking of you all during the loss of your husband, father & Poppa.
JASON ALLERY says
My thoughts and prayers are with Carla and Kirk’s family. Kirk was a great guy to visit with growing up in Harlem and he was well liked and appreciated by everyone.