Elva Arlington Crockett Whiting, 88

Elva Arlington Crockett Whiting, 88, fell asleep in death June 22, 2006. Elva was an eccentric, feisty, young-hearted lady who loved her family, loved life, loved her fellow man and loved her god Jehovah, without reservation.

Elva was born on June 17, 1918, to William and Ethel Crockett in Minto Township, N.D. The third of nine children, she was taught to work hard and be loyal to family. Her mother taught her to sew exquisitely, and for many years Elva made stylish clothes for herself and her children.

Elva loved to dance, from schoolroom to grand ballroom and even on the Lawrence Welk Show.

Elva moved to Minneapolis, Minn., in the 1940s to find work. While working in an office, she met Donald Earl Whiting. They made a beautiful couple and were married Aug. 14, 1945, in Arlington, Texas.

While Don was serving in the Air Force, Elva was relieved when the war was over and Don could rejoin their family. She was a good mother to her four children, always working hard to provide for their health and encourage their individuality.

Elva longed for meaning and truth, and her search was rewarded when she began to study the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses. She learned God's name and his wonderful purpose for the earth. She eagerly shared this knowledge with everyone she met.

From 1953 until the very end, her concern was that others have a good relationship with Jehovah God so they could see the fulfillment of his promise of a perfect new world. She firmly believed in this promise and looked forward with confidence to being resurrected onto a paradise earth and being reunited with her loved ones.

Friends from all over the world enjoyed Don and Elva's dinner parties. Their house on Flathead Lake was home to many gracious and joyful evenings.

Elva was also a talented photographer and artist. She loved to capture images of flowers and the mountains and grandchildren. She enjoyed working in her garden and harvesting fruit from her orchard, which her family enjoyed eating.

Elva was passionate about antiques and vintage hats, even being known as 'the hat lady'! Elva loved pretty things and jazz music and traveling anywhere.

Elva was a wonderful grandmother. She taught her loved ones to be creative, to be fearless and to enjoy life. She encouraged their interest in art, culture, people and spirituality, and comforted them in their trials.

Don and Elva kept a guest book from 1947 until 2006. The thousands of comments reveal love and respect for a gracious couple.

Elva Whiting affected many lives in a positive way. At her own request, no memorial will be held. As a tribute to her, please read Revelation 21:3-5.

Elva Whiting was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Whiting, and siblings Norma Crockett, Nivea Domries, Nathaniel 'Cal' Crockett and Willard Crockett.

She is survived by siblings Wanelda and Earle Schafer, Claude and Cleo Crockett, Ione Schmidt and Norene Bishop; her children Dave and Sharon Whiting, Bill and Kate Whiting, Claudia and Alex Ogilvie, and Jack and Jane Whiting; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her family would like to thank Elva for giving her family the gift of life and a love for Bible truths. They appreciate it.

Arrangements are by Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory of Polson. Condolences may also be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com.