Kathleen Ruth Marks Letellier, 71, died February 22, 2024, at her home in Pinetop, AZ, of cancer. Kathie was born in Benton Harbor, MI, to Adolph Marks and Louise Waldeck Marks. She grew up and attended school in rural Michigan along with seven siblings and graduated from Wayland High School in 1970. Following high school Kathie attended Miami Christian University in Miami, FL. It was there that she met and fell in love with Roy Letellier. They were married December 30th, 1972, and started their life together in Chadron, NE. Together they had three daughters the first, born at Chadron, died at birth, Katie, also born at Chadron and Amanda, born at Gordon, NE.
Over the next fifty-one years they lived in Gordon NE, Belle Fourche SD, Gold Canyon AZ, Mesa AZ and Pinetop AZ. Kathie left her mark with the friends she made and her community and professional achievements. She was the founder of Belle Fourche Christian School, now known as Black Hills Christian Academy. She was proud of the legacy of Christian education that vibrantly continues. Kathie was a successful Realtor in Arizona. She professionally served buyers and sellers for over twenty years. Her success transcended the business transaction, the relationships she established with her clients were her priority and it is evidenced by the huge number of clients who became life-long friends. Kathie loved to cook and bake and entertain in her home, she was well known for her cooking and baking skills. She was always willing to share her knowledge with others and did so by conducting cooking classes as well as willingly sharing her tips and recipes with anyone who asked. While she will be remembered for her many skills and accomplishments, her legacy is the countless friendships that she made as a result of her genuine interest and care for others.
Kathie is survived by her husband Roy, daughters: Katie (Joshua) Zollinger, Amanda (Gabriel) Vandusseldorp, grandchildren: Amanda Marshall, Christopher Marshall, Tabor (Rebekah) Vandusseldorp and Anna Vandusseldorp. She is also survived by brothers: David Marks, Reinie (Dee) Marks, Robert Marks, Thomas (Kathy) Marks and Philip Marks and sister: Judy Sink. She was predeceased by her parents: Adolph and Louise Marks, brother: Timothy Marks, sisters-in-law Anna (Dave) Marks, Judy (Robert) Marks, Amber (Philip) Marks, and brother-in-law Thomas Sink.
Kathie will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Celebrations of her well-lived life will be held both in Pinetop and in South Dakota in the spring. Memorials may be sent to:
Sunshine Bible Academy, 400 Sunshine Dr. Miller, SD 57362, or Black Hills Christian Academy, 630 S. 32nd St. Spearfish SD 57783.
