Kathleen Mary Altobell, age 96, passed away peacefully in Fargo, North Dakota, on August 2nd, 2025, surrounded by her family in the care of Edgewood and HIA Hospice.
Kathleen—affectionately known as Kathy— was born on January 1, 1929, in Andover, South Dakota, on the family farm. She was the youngest of 10 children born to Christian and Louise Steffes with a special connection with her closest sister, Viola, that would last until Vi’s death in 2020. From an early age, Kathy displayed a deep love for children, animals, and music—passions that would shape her life and career. Kathy attended Andover High School and graduated from Northern Teachers College of Aberdeen with a bachelor’s in education along with certifications in special ed. She dedicated her life to teaching, working as a beloved kindergarten teacher and piano instructor. Her gentle spirit, nurturing heart, and unwavering patience made her a natural educator and a joy to all who knew her.
Kathy married the love of her life, John Altobell, on August 7th, 1965, in Andover, SD and moved to Moorhead, MN in 1966. Kathy and John shared a rich and joyful life until his passing October 8th, 2003, including cherished friendships—especially with their dear friends Helen and Tom Kelly, with whom they spent many happy hours playing cards and sharing laughter. Together, John and Kathy raised two daughters, Dr. Michelle (Dr. Robert) Bianco, and Sheryl (Gerald) Altobell. She was a devoted mother, aunt, and grandmother, known for her warmth, kindness, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren Dr. Amanda and Ted Altobell and Elise and Anna Bianco.
A devout Catholic, Kathy was a longtime member of St. Joseph’s Church and proudly served in the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for over 60 years. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she found great joy in serving her church and community.
Kathleen is survived by her daughter Sheryl, her grandchildren Ted, Amanda, Elise, and Anna, her son-in-law Bob, her son-in-law Gerald, and her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband John, her daughter Michelle, her parents, and her 9 siblings.
Kathy’s life was a testament to compassion, grace, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
Kathy and John prioritized a Catholic education for their family and saw the importance of such an opportunity for other children. In memory of Kathy, donations can be made to the John and Kathleen Altobell Scholarship at St. Joseph’s School.
A Gathering of Family and Friends and Rosary for Kathy will begin at 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 16, 2025, followed by her Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM, in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Moorhead.
Kathy will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Moorhead.
Arrangements entrusted to Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service of Moorhead, MN. Online guestbook and condolences can be shared at www.korsmofuneralservice.com.
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