News Summary
The Helena community is mourning the recent losses of Kathleen ‘Kat’ Schroeder and JoAnn Lester Anderson. Schroeder, 76, passed away from natural causes, leaving a legacy of love for Helena and community service. Anderson, remembered for her vibrant personality, passed away shortly after a brief illness. Both women impacted many lives through their dedication to family, friends, and their community.
Helena Community Remembers Kathleen “Kat” Schroeder and JoAnn Lester Anderson
The Helena community is mourning the loss of Kathleen “Kat” Schroeder, who passed away at the age of 76 from natural causes on September 14, 2025. She died in the presence of her family, including her son, Tom, and grandson, Dalton. Schroeder’s legacy includes her deep love for the city of Helena, where she had lived since relocating from Costa Mesa, California, in 2006.
Also remembered is JoAnn Lester Anderson, who recently passed away after a brief illness, surrounded by family and friends. Born on July 10, 1938, in Butte, Montana, Anderson’s vibrant personality and dedication to her family and community left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Kathleen “Kat” Schroeder
Kathleen Schroeder was born on February 16, 1949, in Los Angeles, California. She graduated from high school in Whittier before embarking on a career as a legal secretary in various firms in Los Angeles. After moving to Helena, she transitioned into real estate, working with Bruce Swinney & Associates.
Schroeder was also committed to community service, volunteering at the Lewis & Clark Humane Society for several years. A longtime member of SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in East Helena, she enjoyed hobbies such as reading, gardening, and spending time with her pets. Survived by her son, daughter-in-law, grandson, and siblings, there will be no formal funeral services for Schroeder; however, cremation arrangements have been handled by Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, honoring her love for animals.
JoAnn Lester Anderson
JoAnn Anderson, the first of five children born to Joseph and Margaret Lester, attended Immaculate Conception grade school and graduated from Butte Central High School in 1956. Following her schooling, she continued her education at St. Mary’s College in Kansas. Anderson worked as a legal secretary and was known for her fun-loving spirit.
She was married twice, first to Jim Stevens, with whom she had two daughters, and later to Ralph Anderson in 1971. Anderson was an active churchgoer and a devoted Catholic, attending daily mass. She enjoyed gathering family and friends, hosting, cooking, and gardening. Survived by her daughters, stepson, grandchildren, and numerous siblings, Anderson’s viewing and vigil service are scheduled for September 24, 2025, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home, followed by a funeral mass on September 25 at St. Mary’s Catholic Community. Following the service, Anderson’s remains will be cremated and interred at the Montana State Veteran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary or another charity of choice.
A Shared Legacy
Both women are remembered fondly for their love of family, friendships, and commitment to community, reflecting the values that connect the residents of Helena. Their passing has left a void in the lives of many who were touched by their kindness and vibrant spirits. Their legacies will live on in the memories of those they served and loved.
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Additional Resources
- Helena Funeral Home: JoAnn Anderson Obituary
- Legacy: Kathleen “Kat” Schroeder Obituary
- Legacy: Joy McGrath Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Helena Funeral Home: Dominick R. Davis Obituary
- Google Search: Helena Montana News
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COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
