George Manning Waldheim, 96
On Thursday, Dec. 25, 2008, George Manning Waldheim, 96, quietly passed away in his Columbia Falls home. George was born Oct. 7, 1912, in Kearny, N.J., the third of five children to Henry and Sarah Waldheim. Here, he grew up helping his dad deliver milk by horse and wagon in the early morning hours.
In Massachusetts, at the age of 24, he married Marjorie O'Brien. They had three children, Christine, George Jr., and Robert. George and Marjorie were later divorced.
After moving back to New Jersey, he married Johanna Schmidt in 1960. With her, George would spend the rest of his life. They had two girls, Sandra and Diana.
In 1964, they moved to Claremont, N.H., where they stayed and raised their family until 1988, when they moved to Montana. Here, George could fish to his heart's content.
George began work when he was very young and worked a long time, after many would have retired.
He loved to hunt and especially fish. He spent hours in his woodshop crafting toys, which he generously gave to children. He laughed and joked with anyone he met. He was devoted to his Savior and kind to his neighbor.
He was preceded in death by both his parents; and all his siblings and their spouses.
He is survived by his wife, Johanna; children, Christine and Ed Richards, George Jr. and Kathy Waldheim, Robert and Ruth Waldheim, Sandra and Scott Vernon, and Diana Waldheim; as well as 10 grandchildren, including Debbie and Kevin Cahill; two great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. George lived a full and happy life and leaves a legacy of faith, courage and integrity.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at the Columbia Falls first and second ward building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1780 Talbot Road. Interment will be afterward at the Woodlawn Cemetery. Viewing will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church.
The family has suggested that memorials be made in George's name to Home Options/Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell, MT 59901.
Arrangements are with Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls.