Kathy Ochsner, 55, mom and dear friend to all, died unexpectedly July 8, 2017, near Longmont, Colorado after years of struggling with depression. She was born October 18, 1961, in Greeley, Colorado to James and Dorothy Bell. She was married to Lonnie Ochsner from 1984 to 2001 and gave birth to their son, Ryan Ochsner, in 1985. She cherished being a mom and spending time with Ryan. Kathy met Dyce DeHaan in 2004, and they were planning to be married later this year.

Kathy had a passion for helping people and lived a life full of adventure. After graduating from Greeley West High School in 1980, she attended cosmetology school then pursued a career as a hair stylist, later opening her own salon. However, she always desired to do more to help others, which motivated her to continue her education and complete her undergraduate and master’s degrees in psychology and counseling.

Kathy also loved animals, working with children, and helping the homeless. She stopped traffic to save a stray animal on more than one occasion. She truly had the gifts of love and compassion.

Kathy was preceded in death by her father, James Bell, and her brother, Terry Bell. She is survived by her son, Ryan Ochsner; fiancé, Dyce DeHaan; mother, Dorothy Bell; brother, Dennis Bell; sister, Judy McDonald; and her beloved pets Harley, Taylor, Chanel, and Paris.

The family will hold a private memorial later this week. Cards can be sent to Moser Funeral Service, 3501 S. 11th Ave., Evans, CO 80620.

Visit Kathy's memorial page and donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.donordrive.com/campaign/KathyOchsner.