Marjorie Ann VanAlstine, 82

Marjorie Ann VanAlstine, formally of Coeur d'Alene, Plummer and Troy, Idaho, as well as Libby and Kalispell, 'was taken by the Lord' on July 13, 2007. Many knew her as the 'Cookie Lady' because she always had a selection of cookies and hot coffee. People she worked with in Hong Kong and China named her 'Little Horse' (in Chinese) for her intrepid spirit. Many others called her 'Best Friend.'

Marj was born to Edward and Ester B. on Sept. 19, 1924, in Oakes, N.D., and finished school in Ravalli County.

She loved adventure and travel, leaving home during World War II and going to Vallejo, where she worked as a riveter building 'Liberty' ships. She came to know Christ as Lord later in life, and joyfully volunteered with Christian organizations at home, and in Hong Kong, China, Cuba and other countries.

During her last year of life she received a 1,000 Hour Volunteer Award for service at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d'Alene.

She was preceded in death by both parents; sister, Phyllis; brother, John; husband, Dick; and grandson, Evan.

Surviving her are her brothers, Harvey and Edwin; son, Michael VanAlstine and wife, Betty; son, Lee VanAlstine and wife, Mary; daughter, Rebecca Petrozzi and husband, Robert; and daughter, Marcy Mack and husband, Laurence; 11 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces she held as her children.

Her family and close friends invite all who knew her to join them for one of two memorial services: at 11 am. Wednesday, Sept. 19, at Mountain Lake Bible Church, 2215 N. Seventh, in Coeur d'Alene; or at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 21, at Easthaven Baptist Church, 2010 Whitefish Stage, in Kalispell. Burial will be after the service at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. A luncheon will be provided at Easthaven Baptist Church after the burial.

Marj and family request no flowers or gifts be sent. Anyone so desiring may donate to a favorite charity.