Mary Ellen Lauterbach 47

Mary Ellen Lauterbach, 47, passed away early in the morning of July 1, 2006, of heart complications. She was born Jan. 16, 1959, in The Dalles, Ore., to William P. and Marjorie J. Gaige.

"Mary has gone ahead of us to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

Mary loved family and she loved and cherished her two daughters, Ashley and Molly. She loved her husband, Brian, but family did not stop there for Mary; she also loved and cherished her dad, mom, brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

She had the ability to draw others to her, especially young children and teenagers, and pretty soon they were family, as well. Mary was an amazing mother and wife and had devoted her life to raising and caring for her husband and children.

"We will miss Mary greatly and she will always live in our hearts."

Mary was preceded in death by her brother, William "Sonny" Gaige.

She is survived by her husband, Brian; two daughters, Ashley and Molly; her parents, Bill and Marjorie Gaige; brother, Allen Gaige; brother, Denny Gaige; sister, Cheryl Lowe; sister, Denise Patton; brother, Robert Gaige; and by many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 6, at the Whitefish Church of the Nazarene, 1125 Seventh St. E., in Whitefish.