Mildred A. Christiansen, 98

Mildred A. Christiansen of Columbia Falls died Aug. 27, 2005, at the age of 98. She was born Mildred Francis Ammer on Nov. 8, 1906, in Fargo, N.D. The family moved near Ryegate in 1910, where they homesteaded. At the age of 4, she contracted polio and lived with its effects the rest of her life.

After her early education in Ryegate, Mildred graduated with honors from the University of Montana in 1928 and received her master's degree in 1931. She taught French at the university for five years. She always remained a loyal Grizzly football fan.

In 1934, she married Harold C. Christiansen. They shared a love of travel, adventure, music, square dancing, people and each other. Before retiring to Columbia Falls in 1976, they lived in Anchorage, Alaska, and were there for the great earthquake of 1964. Harold preceded her in death in 1979.

Mildred will be remembered for her positive attitude, great wisdom, generosity, sense of humor, forward thinking and compassion. She is survived by numerous family members and friends, each of whom learned something of value from her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Montana Foundation, P.O. Box 7159, Missoula, MT 59807, for the Harold C. and Mildred A. Christiansen Scholarship. No services are planned.