Kris (Kowitz) Montis, 67, of Moorhead, MN, passed away on August 11, 2022, in Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.
Kristine was born on July 22, 1955, to Gerald and Norma (Giess) Kowitz, in Dearborn, MI. She graduated from University High School in Norman, OK, in 1973. She taught in the Gallup Public Schools in New Mexico. After completing a Masters in Counseling at North Arizona University, she worked as a school counselor for the Gallup schools. She later completed a Masters degree in mathematics and a PhD in Mathematics Education. Before coming to Moorhead to teach at MSUM, she was a professor at Lake Superior State University in Sault St. Marie, MI. Kris was committed to encouraging women in the mathematics field, particularly women who struggled with a fear of math.
On September 17, 1978, Kris was united in marriage to Dwayne Montis, at University Lutheran Church in Norman, OK. Together they made their home in various places, including most recently Hawely, MN. Kris and Dwayne were married 41 years before his death in 2020.
Kris was the light in the harbor. She was blessed and cursed as the first born, and as a result was always there for others, including her three sisters. She was like a second mother to her niece and nephew. She loved her family more than anything.
Kris had the soul of an artist. Music was an important part of her life. She played the cello and would often play and sing at church. Kris enjoyed painting landscapes and abstract art with acrylics and oil paints. She also created stained glass art and jewelry.
Kris was preceded in death by parents, Gerald and Norma, and her husband, Dwayne. She is survived by her sisters, Beth Anne Morgan, Lane Kowitz, and Ruth McReynolds; her niece, Eileen Kanost Barnes and husband, Brandon Barnes; her nephew William Kanost and wife, Stacey Mulllen Kanost; and great-nephew, Alexander Kanost.
Memorial Service for Kris will be held on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at 11 AM, in Bethesda Lutheran Church, Moorhead. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service.
Arrangements entrusted to Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service, Moorhead, MN.