Kathy Jean Carns

Born on September 17, 1963, in Williston, ND, to Bill and Ann Carns, Kathy spent her formative years in Williston, where she created lasting friendships and developed a love for radio and communication. She lived there for 18 years before embarking on a journey that took her to various locations throughout the Midwest.

A proud 1981 graduate of Williston High School, Kathy continued her education at the Brown Institute in Minneapolis, graduating in 1983. Brown was renowned for its programs in radio broadcasting, a field in which Kathy would make her mark. As a talented and passionate radio personality, she worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan; Bismarck and Fargo, ND; and the Quad Cities in Iowa. She was known on-air as Katy Cole, a name she chose in honor of her beloved niece. Her nieces have fond memories - As kids, when Kathy babysat, they would eat an entire box of Mr. Freezes, watch Ghostbusters and stay up way past their bedtime!

Kathy called Davenport, Iowa, her home until her passing, where she continued to nurture relationships and connect with colleagues and friends across the country. She was a vibrant presence in their lives, whether visiting in person or engaging on social media. Kathy was a compassionate and devoted sister, especially to her brother Bill, providing unwavering support and friendship after his brain injury. Her sentimental and nostalgic nature, will be missed by all who knew her. She is now joyfully reunited with her parents and her two infant brothers, whom she spoke of often with love and longing.

Kathy is survived by her sister, Linda (Ken A.) Knodel of Bismarck, ND, and her brother, William R. Carns, also of Bismarck. She leaves behind three nieces and their families: Colonel Dr. Kristen (Colonel Clay) Nichols of San Antonio, TX; Dr. Kendra (Jarred) Roloff of Bismarck, ND; and Katie (Dr. Andrew) Kummer of Minneapolis, MN. Kathy’s great-nieces and nephews, Peyton and Logan Nichols; Jade, Sutton, Griffin, and Stella Roloff; and Eli, Ella, and Harvey Kummer, carry her memory in their hearts.

The graveside service will be held on Monday November 4, 2024 at 3:30 pm at the Riverside Cemetery in Williston ND. A celebration of life will follow the service at the Grand Williston Hotel and Convention Center 3601 2nd Ave. Williston ND.