Katherine Linda (Coletta) Fetzner Katherine Linda (Coletta) Fetzner, age 58, of Lawrence Park, a well known Erie educator, passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, June 6, 2009 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 13, 1951, the daughter of Phillip and Violet Ferrante Coletta of North East. She was a graduate of North East High School and received her Bachelor of Arts in 1973 from Mercyhurst College and a Master of Education from Gannon University in 1981 in Environment Education. Due to illness, Kathy retired from the Erie School District after 25 years of service. She taught science at East High School and Roosevelt Middle School. She was honored by her peers as Teacher of the Year in 1993. Kathy will be remembered as a beloved spouse, mother, daughter, sister, friend and teacher who was extremely proud of her Italian American heritage. She could be seen at many celebrations dancing the tarrantella with her sisters and other family members. She could say more with one gesture, one knowing glance or caressing touch than could be said with a thousand words. Kathy’s interests were many. They ranged from cooking and baking to designing floral creations, to winemaking, a hobby she shared with her father. Family and friends were the lucky recipients of Kathy’s delicious picture perfect antipastos, mouthwatering biscotti, homemade wines and beautiful floral creations. If you were ever in need, Kathy unselfishly offered her services. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Buona Festa, Kathy! Kathy was preceded in death by her grandparents, Vincent and Katherine Coletta and Domenic and Assunta Ferrante and a brother-in-law, Carl Dominick. Kathy is survived by her loving husband Richard, daughter Angela Veshecco and husband Brian, son Rick Fetzner; her parents, sisters Susan Dominick and Jean DeLaura and husband Robert; brother Vincent and family, mother-in-law, Julia Fetzner, sister-in-law Donna Martilla and brothers-in-law, Raymond Fetzner and wife Sharon and Donald (Nick) Fetzner and wife Diane. She is also survived by her godchild, Christie DeLaura and a special nephew Justin DeLaura along with several nieces and nephews. Kathy will be missed by her beloved pets, Dixie and Jiffy. Friends may call at the A. Brugger & Sons Funeral Home, 845 East 38th Street on Tuesday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be held there on Wednesday at 9:15 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist. Burial will be in Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery. Condolences at www.bruggerfuneralhomes.com. Sign the guestbook at www.GoErie.com/obits
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i;m so sorry for your loss. i went to East High.i was not one of mrs.fetzner students. i was Mr. Fetzner's. but they came into value city a lot.that's where i worked. i saw them all through these years. seemed to always be happy together. you're in my prayers. may she rest in peace. theresa spano- hunt
theresa spano-hunt
June 13, 2009
Rich
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Bobby & Pat Causgrove Wheeler
P Wheeler
June 12, 2009
Rich and Ricky,
We want to send our deepest sympathy to you and all of your family. We have so many great memories of our time in Lawrence Park and your family played a big role in that. Your wife, Your Mom she was a very special lady and we are honored to have known her. Our prayers are with you, hold onto the memories, they last a lifetime. We are so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely, Brigette, Clark and Haley
Brigette (Rodland) Wilson
June 11, 2009
Brigette (Rodland) Wilson
June 11, 2009
Angela, Brian, Rick and Mr. Fetzner,
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a very caring lady who loved her family. I can't imagine what you are going through at this difficult time. I will keep you in my prayers.
Nicole Stachewicz Johnson, D.M.D.
June 11, 2009
To the whole Fetzner Family, Rich, Ange and Brian, and Rick, my deepest sympathies are with you. I can't even imagine the loss and the feelings you are going through. Your family was always so welcoming and comforting! I don't think I ever went hungry when I visited either lol :) God bless and I will keep you in my prayers!!
Carrie Smock
June 11, 2009
Rich, Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. May God Bless You and Your Family. Cousin Dale
June 10, 2009
Mrs. Fetzner was my teacher at Roosevelt in the early 90's. She was my favorite teacher in the world!!!!I often thought of her as my kids are going through school. I was either hoping they would have her or have a teacher just like her, unfortunatly that has never happened. I'm sad to hear she's gone, my prayers and thoughts are with the entire family! I will miss her dearly!
Kristy Inge
June 10, 2009
Mr. Fetzner (Richard),
Our condolences on your loss. Your wife was a very caring person and wonderful educator.
If you need a friend stop by Chautauqua Park in northeast Erie as Billy Weist, myself and the rest of the gang are down there watching the sunset almost every night.
Billy sends his thoughts your way.
Joe Currier
June 10, 2009
To the Fetnzer and Coletta families,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Our deepest sympathy from Ignazio, Vincenza, Peter and Joanna Crescenzi
Joanna Crescenzi
June 10, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dorothy G. Fetzner
June 10, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Dorothy Fetzner-Bernatowicz
June 10, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Cathay Fetzner Kramer
June 10, 2009
Angie, Brian and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Penny Guelcher
June 10, 2009
Angela, Rick & Mr. Fetzner,
I'd like to thank you for making me feel like such a welcomed part of your family. Coming to your house, I knew I'd be invited in, whether you were all the in the middle of a wonderful meal, a screaming fit between Ang. & Ricky, a game of pool, or a movie being watched in that amazing palace of a bedroom... I can't remember a day at your home that we didn't laugh like crazy... Kathy was an AMAZING woman & mother. She brought out the best in everyone! She will be greatly missed by myself & my family. I will NEVER forget all of the fun times with the Fetzner family... Trips to North East, walks in L.P., adventures to the mall (avoiding any & all bridges on the way there, of course), & just sitting in the kitchen of your happy home..... Know that we will have her in our thoughts & forever in our hearts. Love & peace be with all of you
carrie kuhn
June 9, 2009
To Rich and Family-
It was an honor to take care of Kathy and meet all of you in the last months of her life. May you find strength in knowing that she fought all the way until the very end. Her courage and resilience through her illness were more than admirable. I know we all wish we could have known her in better circumstances. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Lisa Jones, RN
June 9, 2009
RICH,
DON & I SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WE WILL KEEP YOU IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
ALICE & DON KENTON
June 9, 2009
My thoughts and prayers to all of Kathy's family. I went to NEHS and graduated with Kathy. I always enjoyed her upbeat enthusiasm and smile. I'm sure she will be missed tremendously.
Brenda Gregory Niehaus
June 9, 2009
Richard and family,
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family. Kathy was a lovely woman who will always be remembered.
Linda Albert RN
June 9, 2009
Angela and Brian, I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I will keep your family in my prayers
Stacey Hammer
June 9, 2009
Mr Fetzner,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was a student of Mrs. Fetzner at Roosevelt and was a favorite teacher of mine. She will be missed, but remember we will see her again with the Father above. I hope my kids have a dedicated teacher like Mrs. Fetzner. She will always be remembered.
Richard Smith
June 9, 2009
Richard and family, We are so sorry to hear of Kathy's passing,. She was a blessing to everyone she met. We are so glad to have known her . We pray for you and your family during this most difficult time. Words seem so inadequete wish we could be there just to be supportive or lend a shoulder to lean on. May God send strength and peace to you. Ed & Kathy Lybrook
ED & Kathy Lybrook
June 9, 2009
So sorry to hear of Kathy's passing, Kathy was such a great asset to the Lawrence Park & St. Mark's communities. I know she will be missed far beyond her loving family. sincere sympathy, Kathy, Gary, Chris, Julie, & Nick Paparelli
Kathleen Paparelli
June 9, 2009
Dear Angela and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. You have all fought a long battle to preserve the life of this beautiful woman! When I had the opportunity to talk to Kathy several summers ago, she maintained the positive spirit that she held until the very end. At that time, she was more concerned about her mother's recent illness than her bout with cancer. What a great lady! I know she will be missed by family and friends.
Marlene Radov
Marlene Radov
June 9, 2009
Fetzner Family - I am so sorry to hear about Kathy's passing. My condolences to all whose life she touched.
Karen Croot
June 9, 2009
Ms. Coletta (Mrs. Fetzner) was my Chemistry teacher at East High School in 1980. She was the kindest person in the world. I am sad to hear that she has passed. She will be sorely missed by all who loved her.
Mike Downing
June 9, 2009
Brianna, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. Your aunt was an amazing person and a great teacher. She always helped me when I needed any help no matter what...She will always be missed.
Jennifer Fletcher-Campbell
June 9, 2009
Fetzner Family,
My deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved wife and mother. Upon reading the many entries from past students, and listening to Angela talk, it appears that Mrs. Fetzner must have been a truly beautiful woman. I hope you can find peace knowing that her memory is carried on in the hearts and actions of the many students who loved her. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lindsey Glass
June 9, 2009
Mrs. Fetzner was my 8th grade science teacher at RMS. She was awesome and its a painful shock to hear about this loss. My prayers are with her family and friends.
Melissa Fawcet
June 8, 2009
Rick- My prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Karen Trojanowski Logan
June 8, 2009
Dear Angela, Im really Sorry For your loss, but i just want to let you know that I am here for you, and I love ya.
Desirae Quinn
June 8, 2009
To Richard (Fetz) and the family of Kathy.
I send my deepest sympathy to all of you.
Kathy is now at peace in the arms of the angels.
Be strong for each other.
Kathy will always be remembered by many.
Take Care!
Theresa (Terri) Jarzomski
Terri Jarzomski
June 8, 2009
Angela, Rick, and Brian,
So sorry to hear about your loss.
Diane (Mushrush) Alibaruho
June 8, 2009
Rich: my deepest sympathy to you & your family. Haven't seen you in many years but I think of the times we shared with the East side guys & our Prep friends often
Jim Carroll
Jim Carroll
June 8, 2009
Dear Jeannie and Family,
It's evident that your sister has touched so many lives through these entries and what was written. I'm sorry I never got to know her. Even though you saw it coming, the loss can sometimes feel unbearable. Know that you have a lot of friends and family with you to hug and console.
My prayer for you is to find the peace that only God is able to give and that you can rest in that. Cancer is a part of this sinful world that we live in, but God is faithful and can give us the strength to get through any and all obstacles we face.
Praying for you,
~Sarah Porath
Sarah Porath
June 8, 2009
To all of you, we are so sorry for your loss. She put up a long and brave fight. I will never forget her standing at the end of the hall at Roosevelt with Mrs. Sullivan in between classes laughing and talking in Italian! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Diann Cutri & Angela Moats
June 8, 2009
Dear Rich, Angela and Rick,
Our hearts were broken when we got the news of your loss. Your family was a big part of our Kevin's life. We are so grateful that Kathy was a part of it! We will be keeping you in our hearts and prayers. Keep those beautiful memories always! We will too! Love from the Rogala Family!
Jorja Rogala
June 8, 2009
I just wanted to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.~Liz
liz mannarelli
June 8, 2009
Mr.Fetzner, I am sure you know that you and Mrs. Fetzner were my favorite teachers. Not just one but both. You have touched my life,and you and your family are in my heart and prayers.
From Patty (Phil) and Dave
Patty (Donahue) Craft
June 8, 2009
Angela & Brian,
I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Michelle Moffett
June 8, 2009
Dear Mr. Fetzner & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Miss Coletta's passing. She helped me get through my college prep chemistry class and made it so interesting! I remember her as an inspirational teacher who genuinely loved her job. Many of us benefitted from her teaching talents. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Sincerely, Lori (Cirino) Royer, East High Class of '78, Erie, PA
Lori Royer
June 8, 2009
Angela, I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. I remember spending the night at your house and just adored your mom. We went to some dance in elementary school and she let me wear her jewelry to the dance since i hadnt had any "dressy" jewelry to wear. I always had a great time at your house. Your mom was very sweet and welcoming to your friends. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Elaine Frantz
June 8, 2009
To the Fetzner and Coletta families, our deepest sympathy in the loss of dear Kathy. You are in our prayers during this difficult time. The Valitutti family
Connie Valitutti
June 8, 2009
Rich I am so sorry to read of Kathy's passing. When I look back at my rookie years as a teacher at East High School, I remember well my many talks with Kathy. She took on many extra tasks like coaching and always gave it her best.
Barb Hornak
June 8, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with Kathy's family at this time, please accept my condolences in your loss. Kathy & I went to school together in North East, I remember her wonderful warmth and charming personality, she was always smiling and upbeat, and was truly a happy person. It has been many years since I last saw Kathy as we all drifted away after high school, but I will always remember her dearly as a friend who always had a smile on her face. May God bless. With deep sympathy, Debra Weinheimer Mills
Debbie Mills
June 8, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the Fetzner and Coletta family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
From Janet and Sylvia Iaboni from Toronto, Canada
June 8, 2009
The teachers of our past are never forgotten. I only knew Mrs. Fetzner from the hallways of East High School. She always had such a huge, beautiful smile. Mr. Fetzner take comfort in knowing how many peoples lives she influenced. East High School class of 1980
Penny (Lamary) McCarthy
June 8, 2009
'Weeping may endure for a night but joy will come in the morning."
With deepest sympathy. When ever I would visit Roosevelt Kathy always have a smile on her face.
Gwen Cooley
June 8, 2009
To the family and friends of Kathy. I am very sorry to hear about your loss. She will be extremely missed, but never forgotten. Mrs. Fetzner was a teacher of mine back in 93 @ Roosevelt and was hands down, my favorite teacher EVER! I am very grateful to have had the pleasure of knowing her. Thank you Mrs. Fetzner. Again, please accept my deepest condolences.
Darrell Locke
June 8, 2009
Angela and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. Cherish the memories always. Take care and God bless.
Katie Rodney (Shields)
June 8, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Fetzner, Colletta, DeLaura, and Dominick Families. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that you find comfort knowing that she is no longer in pain, and in a much better place smiling down at all of you.
Amanda Habursky
June 8, 2009
To the family of Kathy, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will always remember her smile and times spent with our children, she will be greatly misssed by all who knew her.To Violet and Philip, once again i'm so sorry for the loss of your child. Alta coletta
Alta coletta
June 8, 2009
Mr Fetzner...you were my favorite teacher at East(class of 83)...My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Renee (Chrzanowski) Mattocks
June 8, 2009
Very sorry to hear about your loss. I will be keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike Whitney
June 8, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Fetzner"s family. Excellent teacher, sweet person.
Our prayers are with you.
Margaret Davis and Donna Achille
Donna Achille
June 8, 2009
Mr Fetzner and family:
I am so saddened to read of the passing of your wife. My memories of over 30 years ago at East High School from your homeroom in the class of 1978. Though I only knew her those few short years, she was a very nice lady. I will try to stop in tomorrow to pay my respects. I am working in Westfield, NY. In case I am not able to stop, you have my deepest sympathy. Try to remember Kathy by her many smiles and the joy she brought to your lives and I'm sure God will help you to have some inner peace. Find comfort in knowing she is now at Home with the Lord. God Bless.
Elaine Karas-Shadle
June 8, 2009
Rick & Angela,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I'm sorry you had to lose your mother so tragically, but I know she'll forever live in your hearts and memories.
Rachel (Kerstetter) Heibel
June 8, 2009
Mr. Fetzner (Richard) and Family,
I am so saddened at the loss of Kathy (Ms. Coletta then Mrs. Fetzner). She is gone from this side but lives on forever on the OTHER side.
I was in her very first class that she taught at East High. We thought she was the coolest teacher because she always gave us some candy! R.I.P. w/o the pain Mrs. Fetzner
Panchitta Robinson-Gaines
June 7, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Kathy put up a brave fight and we will remember her kind heart to all.
Hugs and love,
Marijane and Joe Dillon
June 7, 2009
I send my deepest sympathy to all of you. I wish I would have been there for you at the time of Kathy's passing. I would like to speak for all the nurses in the MICU, Kathy will remain in our hearts and prayers as will all of you. She will always be remembered. She was a fighter of one of the toughest battles. Hugs to all of you, Anne Nies, RN.
Anne Nies
June 7, 2009
I send my deepest sympathy to all of you. I wish I would have been there for you at the time of Kathy's passing. I would like to speak for all the nurses in the MICU, Kathy will remain in our hearts and prayers as will all of you. She will always be remembered. She was a fighter of one of the toughest battles. Hugs to all of you, Anne Nies, RN.
June 7, 2009
My thaughts and prayers are with the family. With my deapest sympathy. with love Joe.
Joseph Fetzner
June 7, 2009
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