Esther K. Ellyson, 93

Esther K. Ellyson, 93, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2006, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Esther was born Feb. 17, 1913, to William and Lucy Kershaw in Bismarck, N.D. She grew up with her brother, Arthur, and his half-brother, Cedric Craig. She completed her high-school education there before moving to Kalispell as a young adult.

She was married to Gilbert Melick, Bill Ellyson and Samuel Leighty; all have preceded her in death. Her only son, James Melick Sr., preceded her in death in 2002.

Esther was a bookkeeper for General Sheet Metal for many years. She enjoyed playing bingo and cards, and is a Presbyterian by faith. She has resided at lmmanuel Lutheran Home since June 2002.

She will be missed by all who knew her. "God blessed her with many happy years."

Esther is survived by her daughter-in-law, Diane Melick; two grandchildren, Shele and James Jr., and one great-granddaughter, K'Lee, all of Kalispell; her sister-in-law, Vivian Kershaw, and two sons, Dale and Duane, and respective families in North Dakota. Niece, Josephine Holden, and children of North Dakota, Sandra, Sheryl, Renee' and Craig and respective families were also very dear to Esther. Opal Melick Lipski, Gilbert's sister, lives in Florida and she and Esther kept in very close contact until Esther's death. Esther has one stepdaughter, Monarae Leighty, who made sure she always had flowers to enjoy.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to the South Kalispell Volunteer Fire Department, "SKVFD," 1255 Willow Glen Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901.

A memorial gathering for Esther will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday Aug. 26, 2006, at the South Kalispell Volunteer Fire Department in Kalispell.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.