Joan Olson Griffith, 72

Joan Olson Griffith, 72, passed on May 11, 2007, after her battle with pancreatic cancer, with her family by her side. Joan lived in Charlo.

Three brothers, Chuck, Don and Floyd, and two sisters, Jerry and Donna, preceded her in death.

Three daughters, Debra Highfill, Laurie Thorsheim and Susan Smith; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren survive Joan.

Joan attended school in Ronan. In 1956, Joan, her husband and three daughters moved to Las Vegas. She owned a Carpet and Design Studio.

She devoted much of her time to volunteer work within her communities. While in Las Vegas, she lobbied for the coalition Women's Federation of Nevada, which formed their guideline for many state child-protection laws and keeping the "Pledge of Allegiance" in the public schools.

Education has been an important part of her life. Joan had more than 25 years history with the Republican Women and worked as a professional fundraiser for the March of Dimes.

Joan moved to Corvallis, Ore., in 1988 to retire, but quickly became involved in reactivating the Benton County Republican Women. It had been nearly 35 years since returning to Montana.

Joan had been a member of the Mission View Garden Club and served as president of Leon Community Club for three years and was actively involved as a board member on the new and recent construction of the Polson Community Church.

Joan had a huge love for family, God and her country.

Corinthians 1:3: "I thank my God for every memory of you."

Services will be at 1 p.m. May 19 at the Polson Community Church, 1814 First St. East, in Polson.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to Leon Grange Hall, General Delivery, Charlo, MT. 59824.