Kathryn Irene Erlewine

My beautiful beloved mother passed away on June 9, 2017 at 9:00 PM. She was 79 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Erlewine and mother, Bertha Dunham. Kathryn is survived by her only child and daughter, Ronda Erlewine-Belgarde and son in law, Monte Belgarde. Mom was born October 10, 1937 as Kathryn I. Rubedew. At age 17, she attended beauty school and received certification to be a beautician in Idaho. Mom married my father, Gerald Erlewine and moved to Polson, MT in 1966. She remained a Polson resident until her death. Kathryn was self-employed as a dog groomer for over 30 years. While I was growing up, she was a campfire mom, 4-H leader mom, and was a mother who was involved and supported her daughter in all social and educational events. Mother took a deep interest in her family, friends, children, her patrons and community. She hoped that her time on this earth provided some positive contribution to the support and care to those she knew and worked for. My mother’s passions included: dog breeding/showing, art, cooking, sewing and gardening. She instilled these passions in me and they are a part of me. My mother and Monte had a special bond formed from deep respect and admiration. They were constantly learning from each other. Her passing has left a huge hole in both of our hearts. She is the light of my life and my best friend. She will be deeply missed as well as irreplaceable.

No memorial services will take place. The family is requesting that any donations in her name go to the Lake County Senior Transportation Center. This important service provided her independence when she was unable to drive. Mother was a strong advocate for the Mission Valley Animal Shelter’s spay and and neuter program as well as adoption program. She was one of the original group members when the animal shelter was just an idea for Lake County. Mother’s passion for animal care and safety was evident throughout her adult life as a dog groomer, breeder and eventual adoptive parent of a shelter animal in the adoption program. Mother died at a time where she was very worried about our nation. On Memorial Day, she put out every flag she had to show her honor and deep thanks for those that put their lives on the line for freedom and safety. She was a strong patriot at heart. Thanks go to Gregg Perkins, Polson Police Chaplain PC1, who took time out of his day following her death to meet with us so we had information needed. The visit was above and beyond what we could have expected from the police department, and we appreciate his care and support. Thanks also go to The Lake Funeral Home for their kindness, care and support.