Colette Zietz

Aug. 1, 1959-Sept. 17, 2025

Colette Zietz, 66, Garrison, formerly of Bemidji, MN, died Wednesday, September 17, 2025, in a Fargo hospital.

Colette was born August 1, 1959 in Napoleon, ND, to parents Sebastian and Eleanor (Mitzel) Schwartzenberger. She was raised and educated in Minot, later graduating from Minot High School in the class of 1977.

Following graduation, Colette married her high school sweetheart, Bruce Zietz, in 1978. The couple made their home in Minot, where Colette began working at Minot Commission on Aging. She then transitioned to a position working for NDAD gaming. Colette’s role at NDAD expanded greatly over the years, as she eventually became the director of the gaming operation, a position she held until moving to Bemidji, MN with her husband in 1996.

Upon moving to Bemidji, Colette began working at Paul Bunyan Broadcasting. She loved her position with the radio station and was heavily involved in various non-profits. She was in charge of the planning for countless fundraisers for different organizations and charities. After 14 years at the radio station, Colette moved on to a position at American Linen Company as an office administrator. She held this position for a few years and then transitioned to a role as an adult foster care provider. Colette loved cooking and caring for the resident. Her and Bruce also enjoyed cooking and volunteering their time at the homeless shelter.

Colette officially retired in 2024. Her passion was spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grand daughter. Colette also spent much time cooking and baking for friends and family. She was a hostess at heart. Her pumpkin bars and dumplings were a widespread family favorite and were requested anytime a gathering was held. During the summers, Colette went on many pontoon rides with her husband Bruce. They enjoyed spending time together relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Colette loved to play cards, roll dice, and enjoyed going to casinos. Every year Colette and her sisters went to Las Vegas, a tradition that started with her mother.

Colette will be remembered most for her kind and loving demeanor. She welcomed all and would often prepare a meal or a treat for anyone who crossed her path. She will be deeply missed by all of her family.

Colette’s loving family includes: her husband, Bruce Zietz (Garrison); sons, Eric (Lindsey) Zietz (Garrison), and Shane (Cassie) Zietz (Bemidi); siblings, Helen (Sheldon) James (Michigan), Lucy (Wayne) Tuttle (Minot), and Steve Schwartzenberger (Alabama); grandchildren, Hunter, Gunner, Ella, and McKenzie; her little dumpling, Hazel, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Colette was preceded in death by: her parents, and sisters, Betty and Linda.

A Liturgy of the Word Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 in Church of St. Therese, the Little Flower, Minot.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot, with a vigil prayer service to follow.

Burial will be held at Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.

Published by The Minot Daily News, September 22, 2025.