Kathryn Zellers, 65, passed away March 6, 2026.

Kathryn Louise Zellers was born to John and Maxine Jansen, in Yankton, South Dakota, November 3, 1960. She received her education in the public schools of Sioux City, Iowa, graduating from North High School in 1979.

Kathryn was baptized into the faith as an infant. The Holy Spirit’s work in her life was evident to all who knew her! Kathryn was united in holy matrimony to her husband, Kevin Zellers on January 5, 1980, the 12th day of Christmas. Together they had 3 children; Kristin, Kevin Jr, & Korey.

Kathy was an accomplished musician, even from an early age. She had a life-long passion for music that inspired her to achieve a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from North Dakota State University. Naturally she went on to share this love of music and education with each community in which she lived, just as she had done with all her children and grandchildren. She became an accomplished private music educator, teaching lessons out of the home. She had many, many students over the years who learned piano, voice, guitar, violin, flute, and trumpet, as well as several other instruments. She often had 45 students at one time.

Kathryn’s love for music dovetailed well with her love for Jesus and His church. Using her God-given gifts and talents, Kathryn often led Sunday School openings, children’s and youth choir, Christmas programs, and adult choirs. She organized and led Vacation Bible School, youth and adult bell choirs, and even served as organist for several years. Her gifts were an incredible blessing to each congregation and community.

She will be remembered as a kind and loving spouse, mother and grandmother whose warmth touched everyone who knew her. Her home was always a place of comfort, laughter, and open arms. She gave endlessly of herself—through quiet acts of generosity, patient listening, and unwavering support for her family. Her strength, compassion, and gentle spirit shaped the lives of her children and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Kathryn served beside her husband at St. Peter and St. Paul Lutheran churches of Beach and Belfield, North Dakota (respectively). She also served at St. Andrew, West Fargo and St. John, Weber, Minnesota. Most recently she has been a member of Messiah Lutheran Church Mandan, North Dakota.

Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents, John and Maxine Jansen, her brother Leslie Jansen, and her brother-in-law Craig Zellers. She is survived by her husband, Kevin, and their three children; Kristin (Fred) Nistler, Kevin Jr. (Erin), Korey (Lindsay), nine grandchildren; Jacob (Rachel), Jonathan (Aurora), Caleb, Isaac, Ethan, Kaylee, Emma, Mila and Kampbell. She is also survived by her brother Doug (Emery) Jansen and her sister Terri (Ron) Johnson as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday March 10, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church, 413 E D Ave, Bismarck.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Monday March 9, 2026, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck. A prayer service will be held at 7 PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will be held at North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND.

Kathryn possessed a resolute belief in the resurrection of the dead and the life everlasting, as confessed in the Apostle’s creed. Her faith and life were highly impacted by the love of God in Christ Jesus, her Lord, who lived, died on the cross, and rose again, for us and for our salvation.

On behalf of Kathryn’s family, we share this Scripture verse with you, “Her children rise and call her blessed; her husband also, he praises her.” (Proverbs 31:28) Without a doubt, Kathryn would respond with the words; “ Not to us, oh Lord, not to us, but to your name, be the glory” (Psalm 115:1) “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” (Luke 17:10)

The family also wishes to express their deep gratitude for all of the truly excellent workers at Knife River Care Center of Beulah, North Dakota, where Kathy spent the last eight years during her final battle with Huntington’s Disease. We are especially grateful for all of the kindness shown to Kathy and our family. We praise God because of you!

+ Soli Deo Gloria +