Kay is survived by her husband Fred, daughter Kristin, son Steven, son-in-law John, daughter-in-law Tami, and grandchildren Michelle, Emily, Fredrick, and Loretta.

Daughter of Fred and Verna (Ringgenberg) Hostetter, she was born on November 18th, 1936, in Manning, Iowa, where she attended grade school from 1942 through 1944 (Kindergarten through Second). She moved nine times during her grade school years, but managed to find her way back to Iowa where she put herself through college. She married Fred Schwartz on August 8th, 1958, and raised two children, Kristin (Miller) and Fredrick.

Kay's first career was a laboratory technician for St. Vincent's hospital; a career that spanned many decades. Always one to improve her education and challenge herself, she went back to school for her Master's Degree in school counseling and became an educator specializing in the Medical Careers field that encompassed all three Billings High Schools as well as the Career Center. Her true love was teaching, and she continued to enjoy that vocation until her retirement at age 78. The lives and intellects she touched during her time in education have sent ripples all over the globe, and those benefiting from her tutelage will pass down her guidance and enlightenment for generations to come.

An avid traveler and SCUBA diver, Kay traveled the world with family and friends. Her culminating achievement was to climb Machu Picchu at the age of 76. Her adventures were numerous, exciting, and enlightening, and her perspective on life is to be envied by all. The only thing she enjoyed more than her global exploits were her numerous pets and her grandchildren. Kay thought nothing of hopping on to a plane in order to see a ballet recital or concert and then returning home in less than 24 hours. After retirement, she and Fred eagerly left their adopted hometown of 41 years (Billings, Montana) in order to move to Green River, Wyoming, to be closer to their youngest grandchildren. Her life was one of fulfillment and giving, and those she influenced are better for it.

Per Kay's wishes, a small private memorial service is planned to celebrate her life…cremation.