Kathryn L. Fraser OFS

Kathryn Lynn Fraser OFS, 72, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Our Lady of Peace Hospice, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on December 2, 1951, in Fargo, North Dakota to Gerald and Edith Fraser, Kathryn was a beloved daughter, a devoted sister and aunt, and an admired member of her community.

Kathryn's family moved to Crystal, Minnesota in 1955.  She attended Saint Raphael’s Catholic School.  She graduated from Robbinsdale High School, Class of 1969.  Her devotion to learning led her to pursue higher education at the University of Minnesota, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Education in 1973. Driven by her passion for learning, she went on to achieve a master's degree in Applied Management from the University of Maryland in 1993, solidifying her dedication to excelling in her chosen field.

Kathryn's career spanned various roles, but it was within the church community that she found her true calling. Her exemplary skills and unwavering commitment led her to work for the Archdiocese of St. Paul for a total of 21 years.  She worked at St. Peter’s Catholic Church and School in Forest Lake and Immaculate Conception Church and School in Columbia Height as the parish administrator. Her diligent work ethic and leadership abilities made her an invaluable asset to these communities, as she compassionately served the faithful and helped transform lives.

Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Kathryn embraced her faith as a Secular Franciscan and held a special place among the Queen of Peace Regional Fraternity Secular Franciscan Order. For nine years, she served as treasurer, skillfully managing the order's finances. Her unwavering dedication led her to establish her own Regional Franciscan Order at the Church of Saint Peter, fostering spiritual growth and deepening the connections of those in her community.

Although Kathryn devoted her life to her career and faith, she possessed a vibrant spirit that extended beyond her professional and religious affiliations. In her younger years, she showcased her athletic talents, immersing herself in the world of sports. As a professional softball player, she proudly represented the Buffalo Breskis of Buffalo, New York, from 1976 to 1978, demonstrating exceptional skills as a shortstop. Her prowess and incredible defensive abilities earned her the esteemed Erv Lind Award for Defensive Player of the Year. During her time at the University of Minnesota she lettered in volleyball, basketball and softball.  Additionally, Kathryn's passion for sports extended to volleyball, where she served as a nationally rated official.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Kathryn's heart overflowed with compassion for animals. For five years, she dedicated her time and efforts to promoting the well-being of animals as the manager of St. Francis of Assisi Animal Rescue. Her love and care for these four-legged companions knew no bounds, leaving a lasting impact on the lives she touched.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire her siblings, Valerie (Michael) Martin, James Fraser, Susan (Bruce) Olson, and Cynthia Fraser. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her nieces and nephews, Bruce Martin, Michelle Haden, James Martin, Matthew Martin, Garrett Olson, Drew Olson, Jeremy Fraser, and Edie Britt. Kathryn's passing leaves a profound void in the lives of her extended family, her beloved four-legged pets and the countless friends who have adopted them, all of whom were touched by her warmth, compassion, and unwavering devotion.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m., Monday, January 22, 2024 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake.  Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake and one hour prior to mass at the church on Monday.  A prayer service and rosary will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home.  Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery, Winona, Minnesota.  Memorials are preferred to St. Padre Pio Franciscan Fraternity, Our Lady of Peace Hospice in St. Paul or an animal rescue of your choice.

In honoring Kathryn Lynn Fraser OFS, we also acknowledge the beautiful life she led, the love she shared, and the lasting impact her presence had on all those fortunate enough to have known her.