Dona Jeane Sherbeck, 79
our beautiful wife, mother and grandmother, "completed this part of her journey" on Dec. 28, 2008. She was born to Doc and Leora Skates in Billings. She battled her toughest opponent, cancer, as she always lived life, with strength, courage, grace, dignity and her incredible gift of love and giving. Her never-ending humor and wit endeared all to the end.
At her side was her husband Harold, her true love, whom she met 57 years ago while ice-skating on the Tri-Delta Montana Grizzlies homecoming float. She is also forever loved by her daughter, Lori, and sons, Dave and Eric; her brothers, Dick and Stan; and also her grandchildren, Ali and Sam.
She graduated in 1951 from the University of Montana in physical education and music.
Mom lived her dreams with incredible joy and passion. She was a top-ranked tennis player in Montana, winning the Montana State Open title for consecutive years. She was also the Midland and Inland Empire champion and was ranked as high as no. 2 in the Intermountain area. She also had top rankings as a senior player in Southern California and nationally. Her biggest thrill was to win both the Southern California Grand Prix 50 Women's title and the 55 Sectionals with a hip replacement. She loved the game of tennis and gave this special gift to so many.
She started teaching tennis at her beloved Pioneer Park in Billings, then in Southern California for 30 years where her dream of her own backyard tennis court came true. She taught and traveled for years with many top-ranked junior players including her own three children.
Her husband was a legendary Fullerton College football coach. Thus Mom fed and was the mother to hundreds of young men.
Mom also had a very beautiful voice. Music was her other passion. She performed as "Violetta" in "La Traviata" with the Montana Opera Association, was a member of the Jubileers at the University of Montana, and sang with the Orange County Masters, then the Mission Valley Chorale.
In 1992 they built their retirement dream home together on Flathead Lake in Polson. They were fortunate to spend many glorious years there together. Her biggest joy was to play her grand piano while looking over the lake.
"I always get to do what I love," she would say.
"The love, devotion, kindness and encouragement that you have given to family and friends are a reminder for us to cherish each other every day. You are our strength and inspiration and we are all forever blessed for being loved by you. Alleluia, Mom, you will always be singing in our hearts."
A special thank you to all of the people who have given tender, compassionate, loving care to our mother.
In lieu of flowers, our family encourages donations in Dona's name to Polson's dedicated cancer caregivers association: Cheerful Heart, P.O. Box 688, Polson, MT 59860.
A memorial service will be held for family and friends at the Sherbeck home next spring; date to be determined.
Condolences may be sent to the family and a guestbook may be signed at www.groganfuneralhome.com.