Catherine 'Katie' McKinley, 96

Catherine “Katie” McKinley, 96, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2017, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Katie was born on Dec. 13, 1920, in Wibaux, Montana, to Anton and Rosalia Strack. She grew up on the family farm in Beach, North Dakota, with four brothers and two sisters.

She married James (Babe) McKinley on April 26, 1950, at St. Matthew’s Parish in Kalispell and they were later blessed with two children, Robert and Russell.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Babe in 1993 and a greatgrandson, Alden Hagemo.

She is survived by her sons, Robert McKinley of Santa Cruz and Russell McKinley of Kalispell; grandchildren Kristy Castro and Kevin McKinley of Santa Cruz, California, Andrea Stocklin of Kalispell and Cathy McKinley of Billings; five great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Katie is being cared for at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place. Donations may be given on Katie’s behalf to St. Matthew’s School or Immanuel Lutheran Home.

At Katie’s request, there will be no formal service. The family is planning a celebration of her life later this summer.

The family wishes to especially thank the wonderful staff at Immanuel Lutheran Home and the special friendship of Linda Mellor and Elaine Knudson in her last few months.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory caring for the family.