Ellington

Cary Finberg 200 wins

Rental Property

Pair arrested during Nazi movie protest

Two members of a white separatist group were arrested during a protest over a pro-Nazi film shown at the Flathead County Library on Thursday night.

Glacier Centennial

Iceberg Lake

Resting at Grinnell Glacier

Glacier Park Centennial

Peter Thomas

Elk on Farm-To-Market

Centennial Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road promises to be a busy place this summer -- and not just with tourists, mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

Centennial Sun Road Infrastructure Project

While construction crews are busy this summer in Glacier National Park, it doesn't mean the work will end anytime soon.

Reunions in Glacier Park

There are several reunions planned in Glacier this summer. Here's a look at them:

Larry D. Henderson, 54

Larry D. Henderson, 54, died Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. Larry was born on Oct. 28, 1955, in Kalispell, to William E. Henderson and Joyce (McNeil) Henderson. He was preceded in death by his father; his second father, Bruce E. Pyles; and his brother, Russell E. Pyles. Joyce and Bruce were married in 1957, and the small family spent the first two summers of their life together at Big Prairie in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, where Larry s love of The Bob was born. Through the following 10 years, Larry was joined by a brother and three sisters. He attended school in Kalispell at Cornelius Hedges until the spring of 1967, when the family moved to Oregon. Larry attended two different high schools in Oregon, graduating from Union High School in 1974. After a short stint as a college student at Eastern Oregon State College in La Grande, he returned to Kalispell. He worked in the logging industry off and on in both Montana and Alaska. He loved Alaska and returned there several times over the years, working for loggers, on the pipeline, and on a commercial fishing boat. He was married for some time during those years. He and his wife owned and operated Imperial Outfitters, guiding hunters and fishermen in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The marriage ended and the business was subsequently sold. Larry loved horses and the outdoors; hunting, fishing, team roping, team penning and skiing were some of his favorite activities. Wherever he went, he always made friends. Larry never knew a stranger. He even made friends with some grizzly bears and enjoyed going to the bear park to play with them before they got too big. Larry is survived by his mother, Joyce Pyles of Columbia Falls; sisters, Laurie Pein and Joe of Columbia Falls, Carole Karberg and Dan of Eureka, Marie Hougeson and Frank of Battle Ground, Wash.; nieces, Amanda Treat and Hal of Columbia Falls, Aimee Moriarty and Todd of Columbia Falls, Andrea Briggs of La Grande, Ore., nephews, Russell Briggs of Columbia Falls, Brian Aster and Steven Hougeson of Battle Ground, Wash.; uncle, Keith McNeil and Marie of Kalispell; aunt, Carol Williams of Kalispell; assorted grandneices and nephew; and his very special friend, Debbie Brekke and her son, Ryan, of Kalispell. He also leaves behind his constant companion, Obie, who is now the official greeter at North Valley Ag Center. A memorial gathering and celebration of Larry s life will be held, potluck style, beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 5, at Woodland Park in Kalispell.

Russell Scott Russ Norton, 43

Russell Scott Russ Norton, 43, passed away on Thursday, April 22, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell, with his loving family at his bedside. He was born on May 25,1966, in Kalispell, the son of George and Romona (Bartel) Norton. Russell attended Flathead High School and received his diploma in 1984. He served for a brief period of time in the U.S. Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and returned to civilian life in Kalispell. Russ worked on Christmas tree farms for a number of years and later had his own business, Norton Contractors. He was affectionately called Fluffy during his childhood and the name stuck with him into his early adult life. Russ spent many fun-filled hours with his brother, sisters, nieces and nephews, enjoying the carefree days of childhood. He also enjoyed swimming with his friends in the Stillwater River on hot summer days and ice skating on the pond in the winter. Russell loved family picnics out in the country, swimming, hunting, fishing, camping and sitting around the campfire visiting. He will be greatly missed by his family and all those who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents; three nephews; and his best friends, Steve Adkins and Daren Corrigeaux. He is survived by his brothers, Douglas Williams and wife Bobbi, Wayne Williams and wife Emily, and Harvey Norton; his sisters, Audrey Flansaas and husband Dean, Geraldine Smith, Sharon Jordt and husband Kevin, and Donna Bear and husband Mike. He is also survived by his very special nieces and nephews, and numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. Graveside services for Russ will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 1, at Glacier Memorial Gardens with Pastor Tim Bartholomew of Stillwater Lutheran Church officiating. An old-fashioned potluck reception will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn, 1140 U.S. 2 West. All are welcome to attend. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Russ family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Russ tribute wall.

Charles Arnold Chuck Warren, 68

Charles Arnold "Chuck" Warren, 68, passed away on Monday, April 12, 2010, in his sleep, after a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and complications. Chuck was born Sept. 13, 1941, in Tuolumne County Hospital, Sonora, Calif. His parents, Frances Arnold Warren and Francis Cullers Warren, lived in nearby Tuolumne City, near his grandparents. His maternal grandparents were among the founders of the Mother Lode town of Tuolumne. Family members served as mayor, law enforcement and other offices, and eventually began the telephone company for that community. The family was known for a generous and helping spirit. Chuck was deeply influenced by his family s commitment to community. While in his late teens, Chuck worked for the community funeral home. He had many experiences that shaped his life from this period. On one occasion he was sent to Yosemite to secure the body of a gentleman who had passed away in a public place. He was assigned difficult tasks, such as securing bodies from accident sites along busy highways in that popular vacation area. Chuck said that those years helped him learn to be calm and reassuring in life s difficult situations. Later Chuck joined the Army and was stationed at Fort Ord. On a trip home for the holidays, Chuck experienced an event that influenced him to an even stronger commitment to help others. He observed a fiery automobile accident in which five teenagers were trapped in a burning car. He and others struggled to get close enough to the car to free the teenagers, to no avail. He vowed to himself to learn firefighting in order to be more able to save lives in the future. While in the Army, Chuck was assigned to the mortuary unit and was sent to a location close to military troops that were poised for attack in the Cuban Missile Crisis. He said it was another time of learning to deal with his own ability to respond appropriately to serious crises. Chuck worked for many years in the Bay Area for a major towing company and had been considered a most valuable employee. His knowledge of mountainous terrain, busy cities and freeways made him capable in Montana as well. Locally, Chuck Warren owned and operated Bill s Towing from 1987 to 2003, providing big rig as well as all other towing during that period. He had many stories from that part of his life, including towing at least one Glacier National Park red bus, logging trucks, motor homes, retrieving stolen vehicles out of deep Tally Lake, and of course, many tragic accident sites. He loved the Flathead Valley and its people, and seemed to carry a map of every highway and back road in his head and in his heart. In spite of his experiences in dealing with life s toughest circumstances, those who knew Chuck found him to have a strong, matter-of-fact and optimistic approach to whatever needed to be done, and an irrepressible, rowdy sense of humor. Chuck will be very much missed by those he associated with and by friends, loved ones, and medical people assisting with his health, for his constant teasing, harassing, and doing his best to make everything funny. He loved people and made friends with as many as he could along the way. Chuck was most proud of his work with Evergreen Fire and Rescue. He was active for about 15 years and then served on the district board of trustees for about two terms. Chuck knew how important the skills and knowledge of firefighting are. He is reported to have entered about 50 involved burning buildings over time, and had good recollections of doing so with his friend, former Fire Chief Ken Cox. He held offices with the department, such as president, and assistant fire marshal, while his good friend Ted Stewart was fire marshal. Chuck considered it his greatest contribution to have served on Evergreen Fire and Rescue s district board of trustees while the new building was being designed and built. He was most pleased that the new building was state of the art for response, and for training, and could remain so for the 70 years for which it was planned. Chuck felt privileged to have contributed his own knowledge of firefighting, of the needs of the firefighters, and of the community for this extremely important project. He was proud of the community for voting for the funding in difficult economic times, and very proud of the design researched and collaborated on by Fire Chief Craig Williams and others. He was so very pleased at the open houses held for public and professionals, to see and hear their positive responses. Chuck was proud to have served with the Flathead County Sheriff s Posse. He served energetically and faithfully, handling the calling of volunteers to assignments: basketball games, parades, Whitefish fireworks, directing traffic and other duties. He also worked these assignments, including the fair, at times being placed in charge at the fair at night. It was his privilege to work at such sensitive sites as the small plane crash near the City Airport, and take shifts at night to assist in maintaining security at such incidents as a homicide in Ferndale, the train derailing in Columbia Falls, and guarding prisoners in the hospital. Chuck often commented how much he enjoyed working with the posse, and regretted that his health issues eventually made it impossible. In the last couple of years it was Chuck s great joy to drive a school bus with Treasure State Transportation, driving Evergreen students for District 5. He thoroughly enjoyed his students, watching their progress as people and enjoying most of their shenanigans. He looked forward to the camaraderie of his fellow bus drivers and meeting with them frequently over coffee after morning runs. Chuck is survived by his longtime partner, Susan Mary Mohlenhoff; his daughter, Kathryne Mame Vela and husband, Patrick; their son, Jasen, who is fire chief of the Montague, Calif., Volunteer Fire Department and whose employment is dispatcher for the CalFire System; his son, Charley Cullers Warren and wife, Stephanie; and their son, Skilier. A memorial and celebration of life service and buffet will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 11 at the Evergreen Fire and Rescue building. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to Shodair and Muscular Dystrophy Society. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for Chuck s family.

Myles Walker Connelley, 28

Myles Walker Connelley, 28, passed away peacefully at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on April 21, 2010. He was born April 16, 1982, in Whitefish to Terrie Truax and Dave Farris. Through the course of his life, he endured 40 surgeries and countless hospitalizations at Children s Orthopedic Hospital in Seattle, Shriner s Hospital for Children in Portland and Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, as well as Kalispell Regional Medical Center and North Valley Hospital. Although Myles was dealt a very difficult hand in life, he lived it as well or better than anyone that could be imagined. In spite of the difficulties he faced every day, he was a continual example of strength and endurance while keeping a sense of humor, patience and lightheartedness. Myles enjoyed life. He loved to laugh and make others laugh with him. Some of his favorite times were spent taking car rides through the back roads with people who could share his appreciation for the simple things in life. He never stopped loving the people around him and giving them memories full of fun times. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Charles Truax, of Whitefish; and faithful service/companion dog Forrest. He is survived by his mother, Terrie Connelley, of Whitefish; father, Mike Connelley, of Eureka; sister, Haylie Koslowsky and husband Stuart of Winnipeg, Manitoba; grandmother, Margaret Truax, of Whitefish; aunt, Becky Truax, of Finland; uncle, Patrick Kelly, of Whitefish; and many more family and friends. A celebration of Myles life was held April 26, 2010, in Whitefish.

Daybook

Heavy snow hammers Swan Range

People who plan to recreate in Glacier Park this weekend might want to take skis instead of bicycles.

Marijuana march planned Saturday in Col. Falls

Medical marijuana supporters hope to raise awareness of issues surrounding cannabis when they converge on Columbia Falls Saturday afternoon for a march along Nucleus Avenue.

Union defends voting on sheriff

The Flathead County Deputy Sheriff’s Association is defending the process used in the recent “no confidence” vote that revealed serious concerns in the Sheriff’s Office about the management of Sheriff Mike Meehan.

Honoring our local soldiers called into action

Although we may not hear as much about Iraq as a few years ago, it remains an active war zone where Americans continue to put their lives at risk, just as they do in Afghanistan.

'Blood' on child just chocolate

A child was bleeding from the face, a concerned citizen told

Angler hauls in giant pike

New North American record?

A Kalispell angler hauled in what may be a North American-record northern pike on Thursday morning.

Former commissioner wants job back

Howard Gipe says there’s one big thing that puts him head and shoulders above most of the candidates vying for the District 2 county commission seat: He’s got experience. Lots of it.

Driver sentenced to five years

Man killed 84-year-old while running red light

After hugging a family member for the last time, a Kalispell man was taken into custody Thursday for causing a crash that killed an 84-year-old Whitefish man two years ago.

Bravettes suffer defeats

The positives continue to outweigh the negatives and that’s what pleases Flathead softball coach Tim Severson the most right now.

Glacier splits at home

One rough inning.

Flathead Softball throw in from outfield

Glacier Softball vs Missoula Big Sky

Anti-Neo Nazi Rally

First Red Busses

Special Centennial Tours via Historic Red Busses offered to public

To give visitors an opportunity to explore Glacier National Park as people did nearly a century ago, special centennial tours are being offered this year through concessions partnerships.

Centennial Green Biz

As a way for area businesses to get involved with the Glacier National Park Centennial, centennial coordinator Kass Hardy and Will Hammerquist of the National Parks Conservation Association established the Glacier Centennial Green Business Program.

Centennial Events Schedule

Howard Gipe

Centennial Film Fest

Glacier National Park is world-renowned for its scenic grandeur and bevy of wildlife. Those sweeping vistas and stunning beauty have beckoned Hollywood producers on numerous occasions for movies ranging from classic Westerns to thrillers.

Raindrops in Whitefish

What should be done with Montana's medical marijuana law?

Stokes loses bankruptcy appeal

A year after a federal bankruptcy court judge ordered Kalispell radio-station owner John Stokes into Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Stokes has lost his appeal.

District 7 hopefuls want tax burdens eased

The two buzz words in the upcoming election are “jobs” and “budget,” and the treatment of those issues by candidates Randy Brodehl, Steven Thompson and Karen Reeves likely will determine the next representative for House District 7.

Harold Edward Chittim, 94

Harold Edward Chittim of Harrington, Wash., passed away on Saturday, April 24, 2010, in Davenport, Wash. He was born in Bozeman on Oct. 26, 1915, to Edward Hope Chittim and Myrtle Leona Michener Chittim. At the age of 7, he developed scarlet fever and died, according to the doctor. His parents wouldn t give up, so they brought him back to life and he lived another 87 years, to go from riding horseback to school to flying all over the world. Being raised in the country, he quickly learned the value of good, hard, physical work, and that smart thinking made even the physical labor more fruitful. He graduated from Stevensville High School in 1934. After working at different jobs on the local farm scene, he started working for Montgomery Ward in Missoula in 1937 as a serviceman, transferring to Kalispell in 1941 as service manager. Improvising and making do with parts during World War II helped him make the transition to starting his own business. He owned and operated Harold s Refrigeration in Kalispell for over 30 years before becoming an HVAC engineer in the hotel business. He not only worked in engineering but had his real estate license and dealt with moving of the properties in which he worked. He was a master electrician, held a gas fitter s card and was a member of the U.S., Montana and Kalispell chambers of commerce. He retired at age 84, ending a very successful career that spanned over three-quarters of a century. He moved to Harrington in 1982 and commuted in his engineering work until his retirement in 2000. Harold was past Grand Master of the Kalispell Masonic Lodge No. 42 A.F. and F.M., and was associated with the Methodist church his entire life. He spent his summers in Harrington and winters in Vancouver to be near his loved ones. He loved his family and enjoyed spending his retirement years working side-by-side with them. His mind was like a sponge and he never quit learning or teaching his children and grandchildren, and loved watching them put the knowledge into practice. In 2009, he gave one of the greatest gifts of his life to his children by writing his complete life story, with the instructions, to be continued. Harold married Alta Virginia Keene in 1939, and raised seven children from that marriage. He married Lola Belle Johnson in 1976. He is survived by daughters, Billie Herron and Gordon of Harrington, Ann Hill and Steve of Maple Valley, Wash., Phyllis Lauckner and Al of Moses Lake, Wash., Mary Timperley and Stan of Vancouver, Wash.; son, Dick Chittim and Jeri of Corvallis, Ore.; and son-in-law, Buck Holley of Hartford, Ala. He leaves 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving are a brother, Charles Pat and Virginia Chittim of Wenatchee; three sisters, Ora Punky and Ed Carlin of Everett, Wash., Mary Tilly Kane-Phillips of Everett, Wash., Myrtle Mickey Brechbill of Florence; and one sister-in-law, Irene Burns of White Sulphur Springs. He is also survived by five stepchildren, Sharon Clemou of Porterville, Calif., Darrell Johnson and Jeanie Halverson of Astoria, Ore., Linda Mabou of San Francisco, Cathy Haupt and Ed of Longview, Wash., and several step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Alta; second wife, Lola; daughter, June Holley; son, Buck Chittim; grandson, Horace Paul Holley; brother, Lewis; and sister, Dolly. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 30, at the Harrington United Methodist Church, with burial at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell. Memorials may be made to the Harrington Opera House, P.O. Box 618, Harrington, WA 99134-0618.

JoAnn Miller Loy, 76

JoAnn Miller Loy, 76, of Walnut Creek, Calif., died unexpectedly April 15, 2010, at John Muir Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. JoAnn was born Feb. 17, 1934, in Bottineau, N.D., to Gertrude and Bert Miller. She attended Flathead County High School and after graduation attended Sacred Heart Nursing School in Spokane. She enlisted in the U.S.A.F. and ended her military service as a first lieutenant. She married Clifford Loy and resided in New Hampshire. JoAnn was proudest of her daughter Desiree, who lost her life in the Air Force as a boom operator at Beale A.F.B. After Desiree s death, JoAnn moved to Walnut Creek to be near her sister Nettie. She is survived by her sister Nettie Miller of San Francisco and dear relatives in Montana and North Dakota. She leaves behind wonderful friends in Walnut Creek, San Francisco and New Hampshire. JoAnn was a caring and loving person. She was a friend to all who knew her, loved to entertain and spent hours at the dog park with her dog Joey making friends. JoAnn will be greatly missed by those who were blessed to have their lives touched by her. There will be a memorial service celebrating her life May 23 in Walnut Creek. In lieu of flowers, JoAnn asked donations be given to the S.P.C.A. or other animal protection groups.

Daybook

Candidate backs planning, property rights

Pam Holmquist doesn’t see property rights and planning as adversaries. In fact, just the opposite is true, the longtime Evergreen businesswoman contends.

Grizzly population growing steadily

Bear managers suspected the Northern Continental Divide grizzly population has been increasing, and now a six-year trend study has confirmed an annual average growth rate of 3 percent.

Green not necessarily clean

News that a top Energy Department official has a major financial interest in companies that would benefit from green energy government policies and spending is deeply disturbing because it raises broader questions about the motivations of money in government.

North Fork gravel pit closed to shooting

The Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger District is closing a gravel pit at Glacier Rim to shooting due to safety and health issues.

Ruling clears way for deputies to get back pay

A long-running lawsuit against Flathead County over past wages has finally been resolved.

Arrest total hits four in murder case

A Kalispell woman faces charges of theft, burglary and tampering with evidence related to a local murder case.

Children's Change for Chili

Garden Tab

GNP 100 landing page links

Glacier Park Timeline

Three seek House District 4 nomination

The primary election race for House District 4 in Whitefish features candidates William Geisse, Damon Pace and Derek Skees as contenders for the Republican slot on the November ballot.

Harold Leslie, 86

On April 23, 2010, Harold Leslie, 86, was released by his Lord and Savior from the bonds of this earth and allowed to go home. Harold passed away from complications of dementia at a care facility in Great Falls. Harold was born to Samuel and Mabel (Spear) Sauerbier on Oct. 21, 1923, in Kalispell. He was educated in the Flathead Valley. He was unable to attend high school because he was needed on the family farm. As a young man he served honorably in the Army during World War II. He was stationed in Europe, working on the railroad transporting troops. It was a time he did not talk about, but once in a while he would tell stories about being transported on the large troop ships over the ocean. On June 28, 1947, he married the love of his life, Florence Cordell, in Kalispell. Harold worked on the construction of Hungry Horse Dam, a job he was very proud of. He also worked for the city of Kalispell and Flathead County as a heavy equipment operator. Harold and Florence were the proud parents of daughters Judy and Jerry. The most important thing in Harold s life was his family. He and Florence moved to Great Falls three years ago to be near family. He was preceded in death by his parents and all of his brothers and sisters. Harold is survived by his wife, Florence; daughter, Judy Crump and Tom of Entiat, Wash.; grandson, Justin Crump and Kassia of Pateros, Wash.; daughter, Jerry Zahller and David of Great Falls; grandson, Jeff Zahller and Holly of Monroe, Wash.; great-granddaughter, Genevieve of Monroe; and grandson, Matt Zahller and Kimber of Boise, Idaho. Harold Leslie was a cowboy at heart. His favorite things as a child were riding his horse, hunting and fishing. He loved the Flathead Valley and his family with all of his heart. He loved to go camping and be in the woods. He instilled in his children a love of the outdoors, the smell of pine trees and the quietness of the forest. He loved dancing and singing country music, especially Johnny Cash. Harold Leslie would do anything for his wife and family, from trying to sew a Barbie doll outfit for a Girl Scout project, to gently holding the hands of his daughters between bunks in the camper when they were afraid of the dark. The love he and Florence shared was noted by many Flathead residents during the years they lived in Kalispell. They could frequently be seen walking on the west side, holding hands, or driving along with Florence sitting closely beside Harold. Cruelly, the disease he suffered from separated them the last few months of his life due to his care needs, but it never stopped the incredible love they shared. No greater compliment or testimony can be given to a person than to say that he lived honorably and always did the best he could for his family. The country song Daddy s Hands fitted him perfectly. Harold Leslie will be remembered by his family as a man of quiet courage, gentleness, loyalty and trust. The family believes he is now sitting on his horse, wearing his favorite black hat. He has ridden long and hard, the journey has been difficult, but now he sits quietly on the top of the hill, overlooking his beautiful valley again. All pain and loneliness are gone. He feels strong and good on this beautiful morning. Visitation for Harold will be from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, April 30, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at Glacier Memorial Gardens with Pastor Todd Hart of Faith Alliance Church officiating. The family suggests memorials may be sent to Special Olympics Montana, P.O. Box 3507, Great Falls, MT 59403. May you rest in peace dear husband, father and grandfather. God richly blessed our lives with your presence and love. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Harold s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Harold s tribute wall.

Hazel Lambert Ginger Smith, 101

Hazel Lambert Ginger Smith, 101, passed away on Saturday April 24, 2010, at her home in Missoula. Hazel was born on March 2, 1909, at her parents ranch in Big Cottonwood Creek, S.D. She attended school at mostly a one-room country schoolhouse in South Dakota. After graduating from high school, Hazel was offered an assistant teaching job in South Dakota. This led to her being given a job in Bismarck, N.D., as matron of the Indian Girls School. While working there, she met the love of her life, Guy Ervin Smith. They were married in 1937. Both Guy and Hazel entered the civil service and were appointed positions in Browning. In Browning, she changed careers and entered the Indian Health Service, where she eventually worked her way up to the position of hospital administrative officer. She retired after serving 32 years working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. They moved to Kalispell to retire, where family and religion played an important part of their lives. The love she felt for her family was evident by all who met her. Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Emma Lambert; her husband, Guy Smith; and her daughter, Dawn Maria Smith. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Smith-Kuipers; her grandchildren, Stephanie, C.J. and his wife, Katie, Ronnie, Timothy, Trevor and his wife, Tara, and Michael. She has numerous great-grandchildren, including her namesake, her special Lulu Bell, Sophie Hazel, who brought her great joy and love in the last years of her life. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, April 28, at Risen Christ Parish with Father Rudy Bulman and Father Gary Reller co-officiating. Burial will take place at 3 p.m. at Crown Hill Cemetery in Cut Bank. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com to sign her book or leave a personal message. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

David Bruce Sipe, 61

David Bruce Sipe, 61, an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in the comfort of his home Sunday morning, April 25, 2010. Dave s strength and positive attitude throughout his 3 1/2-year battle with cancer was an inspiration to many. Dave was born on June 10, 1948, in Kalispell, to Keith and Vivian Sipe. On June 2, 1973, he married Jennifer Joy Anderson at the Whitefish United Methodist Church. Dave was a lifelong resident of the Flathead Valley, living most of his life in Whitefish. He was employed by Anaconda Aluminum, the Flathead County Detention Center, DePratu Ford and the Whitefish Fire Department. Dave s involvement with the Whitefish Fire Department began in March of 1978, when he took a position as a volunteer fireman. He was appointed volunteer fire chief in 1984 and served in that capacity until 1985, and then again from 1993 to 1995. In October of 1995, Dave became the first paid fire chief of the department. Due to illness, he retired in July of 2008. His passion for helping others made leaving his job difficult. In 2006, Dave was honored as City Government Worker of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce and the Whitefish Community Foundation. He was also awarded Ambulance Attendant of the Year in 1987, and then again in 1991. Dave was known to spend time wearing his red Crocs at The Buffalo Cafe in Whitefish with his long-time coffee buddies, and could be found there most mornings of the week giving the waitresses a hard time. After moving from Whitefish, he split his time between The Buffalo Cafe and Bojangles Diner in Kalispell, where he joined a group of long-time friends. He enjoyed spending time in his shop with Dave Weldele building beautiful furniture that will be forever cherished by family and friends. Dave had a passion for motorcycles and went on many adventures with good friend Orland Leland. Dave also enjoyed special visits with longtime friend Bob DePratu. Dave and Jennifer loved loading up the camper and heading out for the weekend with the dogs. Dave loved animals, especially his dogs Ripley and Penelope. He took great pride in his yard, building a garden house and keeping an immaculate lawn. Dave had an affinity for classic cars, most notably his black 1965 Chevelle. Other activities that he took part in were softball and golfing with his brothers and son-in-law, Jeff Claridge. Dave was a well-respected and loved member of the community known for his selflessness and dedication; when the siren sounded, you could be sure that Dave was the first one on the scene. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Vivian Sipe. He is survived by the love of his life, Jennifer; daughter, Rachel Williams and Bob of Oregon; son, Eric Sipe and Lisa of Louisiana; daughter, Molly Claridge and Jeff of Kalispell; and son, D.J. Sipe of Whitefish, all of whom had a unique relationship and special bond with their father. He is also survived by his brothers, Brian and wife Jolene of Kalispell, Robin and wife Karen of Missoula, Richard and wife Joan of Kalispell, Craig and wife Maureen of Arizona, Mark and wife Susan of Arizona, and Kevin and wife Susan of Florida; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends. He was proud Grandpa to Justin Waverick, Jourdan Williams, Griffin Williams, Garrett Sipe, Anna Grace Sipe, Hannah Sipe, Megan Sipe, Jack Sipe, and soon-to-be-born Travis Sipe. He was also known as Boppa to Stella and Sully Claridge. His wife, children and grandchildren were the light of his life, giving him great strength during his illness. He was so proud of them all. At his request, a celebration of his life will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at the new Whitefish Emergency Services Center, 275 Flathead Ave. Parking will be available on the street, at the Mountain Mall or in designated nearby parking lots (follow signs for parking). Bus transportation will be available from the Mountain Mall (by McDonald s) and from Baker Avenue and West 13th Street. Interment of his ashes will follow at the C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell with a reception held at the Whitefish Methodist Church afterward. Memorials may be given to the Whitefish Fire Department, 275 Flathead Ave., Whitefish, MT 59937 or Whitefish United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 4248, Whitefish, MT 59937. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Dave s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Dave s tribute wall.

Daybook

Most providers pass alcohol compliance checks

Three Flathead County businesses failed but a vast majority of businesses passed weekend compliance checks by the alcohol enforcement team.

Sheriff, deputies at odds

Union takes vote of ‘no confidence’

More than three-quarters of Flathead County Sheriff’s Office employees have “no confidence” in the sheriff, according to a recent vote.

Daoud, Carlson break records at Top 10 meet

MISSOULA - Anto Daoud of Whitefish and Kayla Carlson of Bigfork set new meet records at the 12th Russ Pilcher Western Montana Top 10 meet on Tuesday.

Two appointed to Fair Board seats

Longtime 4-H leader Wes McAlpin and downtown Kalispell businessman C.M. “Butch” Clark were appointed to the Flathead County Fair Board on Tuesday by the county commissioners.

Relay victory seals sweep

Bravettes edge Wolfpack; Flathead hurdles Glacier on track

After 16 track and field events and three side-by-side legs of the 1,600 relay, the honor of being the top girls team in Kalispell came down to one final lap.

Six FHS students compete in nationals

Six Flathead High School students will compete in May at a national business leadership competition.

Contractor eyes county post as 'civic duty'

Patrick Nickol has operated his own contracting business for the past decade and believes that small-business experience gives him a good foundation for being a county commissioner.

Semi collision claims life on MT 28

A semi vs semi truck collision has claimed a life, authorities say. The collision occurred along Montana 28 near mile marker 30.3 in the Lone Pine construction zone around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. Only the southbound lane was partially blocked, with traffic control help from construction crews. The

Expansion of historic area being studied

Kalispell’s historic downtown district could be growing soon.

Flathead vs. Glacier Track

Olney-Bissell Science Fair

Hazel Lambert Ginger Smith, 101

Hazel Lambert Ginger Smith, 101, passed away on Saturday April 24, 2010, at her home in Missoula. Hazel was born on March 2, 1909, at her parents ranch in Big Cottonwood Creek, S.D. She attended school at mostly a one-room country schoolhouse in South Dakota. After graduating from high school, Hazel was offered an assistant teaching job in South Dakota. This led to her being given a job in Bismarck, N.D., as matron of the Indian Girls School. While working there, she met the love of her life, Guy Ervin Smith. They were married in 1937. Both Guy and Hazel entered the civil service and were appointed positions in Browning. In Browning, she changed careers and entered the Indian Health Service, where she eventually worked her way up to the position of hospital administrative officer. She retired after serving 32 years working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. They moved to Kalispell to retire, where family and religion played an important part of their lives. The love she felt for her family was evident by all who met her. Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Emma Lambert; her husband, Guy Smith; and her daughter, Dawn Maria Smith. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Smith-Kuipers; her grandchildren, C.J. and his wife, Katie, Ronnie, Timothy, Trevor and his wife, Tara, and Michael. She has numerous great-grandchildren, including her namesake, her special Lulu Bell, Sophie Hazel, who brought her great joy and love in the last years of her life. A Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today, Tuesday, April 27, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 28, at Risen Christ Parish with Father Rudy Bulman and Father Gary Reller co-officiating. Burial will take place at 3 p.m. at Crown Hill Cemetery in Cut Bank. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com to sign her book or leave a personal message. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Peter John Pete Viano, 84

Peter John Pete Viano, age 84, passed away on Thursday, April 22, 2010, at Wel-Life in Kalispell. He was born on Nov. 25, 1925, in Kalispell, the son of Gaston and Mary (Zadra) Viano. The second of two children, he received his primary education in a one-room schoolhouse near the current West Valley School site. Pete s grandfather Viano emigrated from Italy and homesteaded west of Kalispell before buying land on Rhodes Draw in 1902. Pete s father was the last to farm the land, but it was a heritage that Pete did not want to lose, so he purchased his beloved farm in 1961. It remains in the family to this day. Pete s mother, a native of the valley, was born in 1891. She greeted the first train that came to Kalispell in the late 1890s. Pete worked several jobs before starting a 36-year career as a switchman and brakeman for Great Northern Railroad in 1949. He retired in 1985 from what had become the Burlington Northern Railroad. Pete married Kathryn Kay Greco in 1946. They were married for 61 years before her death in 2007. They had three children, Ron, Larry and Debbie. Pete loved the Flathead Valley and the many friends he had here. Over the years, he and Kay enjoyed trips in the U.S., Mexico and Europe, as well as several winters in Yuma, Ariz., with many of these friends. Pete really enjoyed sharing stories about the old days and was always ready for a good game of pinochle. So it was fitting that he spent his last day with family and also playing one final card game with friends. He was preceded in death by his wife and his parents. He is survived by his sons, Ron Viano and his wife, Nancy, of Boise, Idaho, and Larry Viano and his wife, Cindy, of Kalispell; his daughter, Debbie Sprague and her husband, Michael, of Boise; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his sister, Della Spindler of Plains; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services for Pete will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 28, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home with Fred Topp officiating. Visitation will be held from noon to 5 p.m. today, Tuesday, April 27, followed by a Rosary at 5 p.m. Burial will follow services at Glacier Memorial Gardens. The family requests memorials be given to the Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy at www.fsma.org or 925 Busse Road, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Pete s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Pete s tribute wall.

Annexation plan in final stages

If all goes as expected, the Kalispell Planning Board should put the finishing touches on a new annexation policy tonight before passing it along to the City Council.

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Today

Local soldiers to mobilize for Iraq

The Montana Army National Guard on Monday announced a one-year mobilization of about 500 of its members this fall.

Protest to greet supremacist film showing

A protest is being organized Thursday against a planned showing of a film that advances “white-supremacy, anti-Semitism propaganda” at the Flathead County Library in Kalispell.

Wilderness group gathers in Whitefish

Outdoor enthusiasts from throughout the state are headed to Whitefish for the Montana Wilderness Association’s annual gathering Friday and Saturday.

Candidate emphasizes rule of law

There’s a recurring theme that runs through Noel Gorton’s platform as she campaigns for the Flathead County District 2 commissioner seat:

Columbia Falls tennis

Long battle with cancer ends for retired fire chief

Dave Sipe, longtime Whitefish fire chief, died at his home in Kalispell on Sunday after a three-year battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Teen drives too close to river

Responding to a report of a red Jeep being driven near the Flathead River at the Old Steel Bridge crossing Sunday, Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies ended up arresting a boy, 19, for driving below the high water mark, obstructing a peace officer and criminal contempt.

Noel Gorton commissioner candidate

Columbia Falls Tennis

Tulip Garden

Patrick Nichol portrait

Sally Jean (Stapley) Barnes, 70

Sally Jean (Stapley) Barnes, 70, of Columbia Falls, passed away Friday, April 23, 2010, after a short battle with cancer in Kalispell. Sally was born on Dec. 27, 1939, in Libby to Loran Red and Dolly Stapley. On Jan. 7, 1958, she married the love of her life, Anson E. Barnes, in Kalispell. They were blessed with two sons. She was a faithful member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Vista Chapter No. 44. She will be greatly missed by all those she loved and those who loved her. Sally gave from her heart with her whole heart, and is remembered by family and friends as always having an open door to everybody, taking everyone at face value. Young and old were touched by her caring and giving. She was second Mom to many of her children s and grandchildren s friends. She loved animals of any kind. Her family likes to tell stories of the deer and skunk that she had as pets when she was a child. She enjoyed life. Sally had a soft and generous heart. She was a lesson in unconditional love and never had a bad thing to say about anybody. Sally was an amazing artist who loved to share her gift with others. Whether painting, drawing, baking or sewing, Sally showed remarkable talent. She won blue ribbons at the county fair for her paintings and photographs. She had sketchbooks full of drawings from her life. She loved to bake and made beautiful cakes, especially for weddings and other special occasions. She sewed amazing dresses, kept her family clothed in shirts and coats that were made with love, and she sewed realistic, lifelike puppets of birds and wild animals of the Northern Rockies. The puppets and miniature replica mounts have been sold internationally. Sally was preceded in death by her parents, Loran Red and Betty Stapley, and Dolly Lecount; two infant sons; her mother-in-law, Vivian Barnes; and many other members of her extended family. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Anson Barnes; two sons Wendell Barnes and Nona of Clinton, and Harley Barnes and Tanya Luchi of Columbia Falls; four brothers, Steve Stapley and Susan of Columbia Falls, Steve Lecount of Columbia Falls, Terry Lecount and Peggy of Eureka, and Mike Lecount of Troy; four grandchildren, AJ and Chantel Barnes of Columbia Falls, and Zoey Gerber and Aleena Stevens of Corvallis; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones, including aunts, uncles and family members from the Fredenberg side of her family. A celebration of Sally s life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 27, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Interment of her ashes will follow the service at Glacier Memorial Gardens. The family requests donations in her name be made to Home Options Hospice of Kalispell. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com to sign her book and leave personal messages for her family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for her family.

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Today

Four school districts have variety of trustee choices

A variety of trustee choices await voters in Smith Valley, Somers-Lakeside, West Valley and Whitefish school districts.

Man arrested on assault, drug charges

Flathead County sheriff’s deputies said that a man accused in a domestic disturbance in Bigfork Saturday afternoon has been jailed on two counts, one for partner assault and the other for felony possession of illegal narcotics.

Trustees elected by acclamation

While school board trustee terms expired in every Flathead County school district this spring, most districts are not holding elections in May.

Flathead Lake may not quite reach full-pool mark

Because of a low mountain snowpack and spring runoff forecast, it is now “questionable” whether Flathead Lake will refill to its full-pool elevation by the traditional June 15 date.

Incumbent applies life lessons from dad

Flathead County Commissioner Joe Brenneman says he has no grand illusion that it will be easy to get re-elected for another six years.

Charles J. Schaeffer, 63

Charles J. Schaeffer, 63, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 17, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. He was born on Aug. 14, 1946, in Fargo, N.D., to Wilbur and Helen (Rudick) Schaeffer. At an early age the family moved to West Glacier, and then settled in Martin City, where Charles enjoyed his childhood, growing up in the woods and mountains of Montana. He graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1964. He served for a brief period in the U.S. Marine Corps, and then returned to civilian life. Charles eventually moved to Salt Lake City, where he spent many years working in a refinery and also did some ranching in the area as well. Charles was married briefly to Jean for several years before divorcing. He moved back to Kalispell in 2000, and operated a cleaning business. He also assisted at the senior citizens center before retiring, choosing to spend his remaining years enjoying time with family and friends. Charles loved fishing, watching old westerns, listening to country music and doing the two-step with a pretty girl. His unexpected passing leaves a huge void and sadness in many hearts. Charles heart was as big as Montana. He loved people and he loved life. Despite many physical challenges that he had to overcome throughout his life, he enjoyed giving far more than receiving, and would do anything for anybody in need. Charles always had a smile on his face and a can-do attitude. His glass was always half-full! For those who really knew Charles, he will be greatly missed and loved. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Wilbur Schaeffer; and a sister, Gloria Schaeffer. He is survived by his brothers, Don Schaeffer, Rick Schaeffer and wife, Vicky, and Pat Schaeffer; a sister, Kathy Larson and husband, Paul; aunt and uncle, Jean and Don Bromley; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Memorial services for Charles will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at the Canyon Community Church in Coram. The family suggests any memorial donations be made to the local food bank. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Charles family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Charles tribute wall.

Odean R. Pete Pederson, 85

Odean R. Pete Pederson, 85, passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2010, at his home, with his loving family at his bedside. Pete was born on Dec. 25, 1924, in Hillsboro, N.D., to Peder and Mathilda Solli Pederson. He was raised in North Dakota, where he attended schools, graduating from Maddock High School in 1940. He married his sweetheart, Rosemary Keister, in 1947 in Shelton, Wash. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Pete spent 35 years working for the same local motor freight company in Kalispell and in Glasgow, as a delivery driver and then as terminal manager. Pete was a member of the Elks Lodge, the Eagles Lodge, and enjoyed volunteering every year as a dishwasher at Sykes for the Thanksgiving dinner held annually. He was raised Lutheran, but recently had been attending the Well Life services. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping, especially with his dog Tic. He loved going on road trips and reunions with his family. Pete was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Arnold; and a sister, Margaret. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rosemary, of Kalispell, daughter, Bonnie Beardsley, of Denver; sons, Phillip and wife, Nita, of Glasgow, and Brad of Kalispell; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and siblings, Pearl Ernst of Tacoma, Wash., and Ervin Pederson of Bismark/Maddock, N.D. A celebration of Pete s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at Sykes in Kalispell. The family requests donations be made to Home Options Hospice of Kalispell. You are invited to go to www.buffalhillfh.com to sign Pete s book or leave a personal message. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.

Beth Diane Burtz Lathrop, 43

Beth Diane Burtz Lathrop, 43, passed away on Tuesday, April 20, 2010, at her grandmother s home in Kalispell. Beth was born on Aug. 29, 1966, in San Francisco, to Ralph and Candace (Lincoln) Walker. She was raised in Sacramento, Calif. She had worked in property management until her illness forced her to move to be near her family in Kalispell. Beth enjoyed fishing, camping and will always be remembered for her great sense of humor. She was loved by everyone that knew her. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Don Lincoln. She is survived by her husband, Doug Lathrop, of Kalispell; mother, Candace Pluid, and stepfather, John T. Pluid, of Kalispell; father, Ralph Walker, of Sacramento; sons, Kris, Justin and Nick Burtz, all of Las Vegas, and son, John Matheu, of Sacramento; stepsons, Chris, Ben and Jon Lathrop, all of Sacramento; sibling, Bryce Walker and wife, Irma, and their sons, Tyler and Trevor, of Meridian, Idaho; grandmother, Shirley Lincoln, of Kalispell; and aunts, Jeri and Denise Lincoln, both of Kalispell. Private family services will be held. She is now in the arms of God. Thank you Dr. Habel for everything you have done. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com to leave messages for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Ann Marie Greco, 76

Ann Marie Greco, 76, passed away after a courageous struggle with dementia on Sunday, April 18, 2010, at Lake View Care Center in Bigfork. She was born on Nov. 24, 1933, in Providence, R.I., the daughter of Angelo and Mary (Iadevia) Greco. Her childhood was shared by her sister, Diane, and her brother, Sonny. Some of their fondest memories were spent at Newport Beach, clamming and also enjoying the ocean at Cape Cod. She graduated from St. Xavier High School and later began corresponding with a U.S. Airman in France. At the age of 21, Ann went to France and married Joseph Vitovec, and they had a daughter, JoAnn, who was born there. As a military wife, she travelled extensively and created a home wherever she went. Ann accepted people of all ages and cultures. Because of her love of life and beauty she impacted many. She had a generosity of spirit and a heart that made her a joy to be with. One of her proudest accomplishments was earning her Bachelor s degree in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She was a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society. Ann had an enthusiasm for learning that was contagious, and was always welcoming her fellow students into her home to discuss their many cultures and backgrounds. Upon returning to Rhode Island, Ann showed her creativity by becoming a window dresser. Then on to RISDI (Rhode Island School of Design Museum) as a guard. The museum was Ann s second home, where she was surrounded by the great works of Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Renoir and others. She loved her time there and enjoyed her friends and co-workers. Everyone knew of her love for art and books. Upon retiring from RISDI, Ann moved to Montana to be near her daughter. She quickly made new friends in Montana and became a foster grandparent, joined the Red Hat Society and enjoyed all the Flathead Valley had to offer. She always spoke with fondness of her friends and family in Rhode Island. She will be missed by many. Her love for life inspired others to see the beauty around them. She was and always will be a bright light. Ann was always there to lend a helping hand and was known for her generous heart. She truly knew how to accept others for who they were. Ann will be missed by her daughter JoAnn; numerous nieces and nephews; and also many friends from around the country and the world. Mass of Christian Burial for Ann will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 1, at St. Matthew s Catholic Church with Father Vic Langhans as Celebrant. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to the Smile Train, P.O. Box 96211, Washington, D.C. 20090-6211. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Ann s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Ann s tribute wall.

Clearing away the smoke

From all the uproar over medical marijuana in Kalispell, one would think some primal civil right was being eliminated by the Kalispell City Council.

Melting glaciers in Glacier Park: The view from 1963

The recent news release concerning the melting glaciers in Glacier National Park seems somewhat deceptive. I am a National Park Service retiree. I started my career in Glacier National Park in 1963 and attended my first park staff meeting in September of 1963.

Polson bounces back on diamond

FRENCHTOWN - The Polson Pirates dropped their first game of the season but regained their winning ways and earned a split on the second day of the Frenchtown softball tournament on Saturday.

Glacier's Frey wins three events, earns sprint honors

GREAT FALLS - Maddey Frey remained unbeaten on the track this season and was named MVP in sprints at the Great Falls Optimist Club Invitational on Saturday.

Pizza veteran in line for top honor

It’s not easy being a restaurant manager.

Vegan health expert to speak on May 4

Dr. Brian Clement, director of the Hippocrates Health Institute, will talk in Kalispell on Tuesday, May 4, at the National Guard Armory at the Wellness Education Center’s event called “Change Your Lifestyle, Save Your Lifei.”

Spring in his step

Commissioner weathers a winter of cancer treatment

April 15 was an important day for Dale Lauman, and not because it was Tax Day.

Wolfpack 7th, Braves 9th at Dahlberg

BUTTE - The Glacier boys tied for seventh place with 24 points and Flathead was tied for ninth with 20 at the annual Swede Dahlberg track meet on Saturday.

Daybook

Flood-plain rules get Planning Board OK

The first major overhaul of Flathead County flood-plain regulations since 1984 got a green light from the Planning Board following a public hearing on Thursday.

Water craft

Morley cedar canoes blend art, recreation

At a bend along the highway near Swan Lake, there’s a small wooden cabin sitting close to the road.

Bates drops Braun, again

Whips defending AA state net champ 6-1, 6-1 in singles final at invitational

HELENA - Bates is just better.

Who's running for school board?

Thirty-seven candidates are vying for 19 open seats on school boards in nine Flathead County districts.

Just who do they think they own?

 I have for some time been looking for a model to describe the relationship that currently exists between the people and the federal government. At different times, I have labeled it as feudalism, serfdom or slavery.

Week in Pictures April 19-25

Flathead vs. Missoula Hellgate Play at First

Flathead vs Missoula Hellgate Running Blind

Glacier Knights Football - running in for touchdown

Glacier Knights Football - escaping the defense

Polson pounds Anaconda, 11-0

FRENCHTOWN — Polson scored six runs in the first inning en route to a 11-0 victory over Anaconda on Friday during first-day action at the Frenchtown Tournament.

Superior performances

The numbers from the recent District 1 Music Festival in Whitefish are staggering.

Idaho man sentenced in Montana drug case

An Idaho man was sentenced Friday to 25 years in prison for drug crimes after charges that he ordered the killing of three women at a western Montana hair salon were dropped because of misconduct by authorities.

Glacier sweeps Flathead

The Glacier Wolfpack is finding — or maybe the better way to put it — making ways to win softball games.

Banner start for Glacier netters

HELENA — Liana Bates, Hailey Blalack and Kellen Bates will all play quarterfinal matches in singles play this morning at the Helena Invitational tennis tournament.

Road work paves way for Walmart

Work on upgrading Hutton Ranch Road — which by the first of June will be the main road into the new Walmart Supercenter — started at the crack of 8 o’clock Wednesday night.

State starts study of North Fork Road

The Montana Department of Transportation has commissioned a “corridor study” to determine future improvements on the North Fork Road.

Daybook

Flathead vs. Glacier Softball - pitcher fields ball

Flathead vs. Glacier Softball - play at first

Dale Lauman Photo Frame

Dale Lauman

Will Tim Tebow succeed as the quarterback for the Denver Broncos down the road?

Morley Cedar Canoes

Hutton Ranch Road Construction

Algae Aqua-Culture Technologies

FVCC Seussville

Pizza Hut

Brenda Kay (Hoerner) Blakney, 51

Brenda Kay (Hoerner) Blakney, 51, passed away peacefully at her sister s house in Columbia Falls on April 17, 2010, after a short battle with cancer. She was met in heaven by her parents. Brenda was born on Feb. 4, 1959, in Kalispell to Cliff and Ida (Pixie) Hoerner. She leaves behind her loving children and their spouses, Joshua and Angela Blakney of Kalispell, and Beth and Chuck Taylor of Minot, N.D.; her grandchildren, Madison, A.J., Tristen, Gaige, Maddox and Magic; her brothers and sisters, Sharon, Dennis, Cindy, Darryl, her twin brother, Bart, and baby brother, Cliffy Jay. She also leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces, too many to name, and lots and lots of great-nieces and -nephews. Brenda was a great mom and wonderful person. She was a very hard worker with a great work ethic that she passed on to her children. She was always a child at heart and loved to play with children; most of the time when the adults were visiting and the kids playing, she chose to play with the children. Brenda had a wonderful zest for life and loved doing things with her family, whether it be taking homemade chicken noodle soup to her children when they were sick " whether they were 2 years old or 30 years old " or just playing on the slip n slide with kids of all ages. She taught us all how to stay children at heart and to be very loving and caring. No matter what anyone ever did, she was always willing to forgive. From your loving family, we know you will always be with us, and we will always love you. A celebration of her life will be held at noon on Saturday, April 24, at the LaSalle Grange Hall. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.

Polson pounds Whitefish; C-Falls clubs Libby

 POLSON — Sallie Sams went 4-for-4 with two triples and knocked in five runs as the Lady Pirates improved to 5-0 to start the season with a 11-1 win over Northwestern A foe Whitefish on Thursday.

Explosion, fire destroy man's truck

Justin Sherman woke up Thursday to an unpleasant surprise: an explosion outside his Echo Lake-area home.

Man pleads guilty to prostitution

The Trego man has changed his plea to guilty to prostitution charges.

Libby schools trim 10 teaching positions

LIBBY —The Libby School Board reluctantly voted Monday to cut the district’s faculty by about 10 teachers in an effort to close a projected $405,000 shortfall in the 2010-11 budget.

Evergreen chase reaches 100 mph

Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies chased a 23-year-old man on a motorcycle through Evergreen at speeds in excess of 100 mph in the early morning hours Thursday. When the man was finally arrested at a North Cedar residence for eluding a peace officer, he said he fled because he had a suspended driver’s license.

Bouley, Glacier stump Knights

Glacier relied on another strong performance by Kendra Bouley in the circle and some timely hits in the early going to stick a 3-0 Western AA softball loss on Missoula Hellgate at Kidsports Complex on Thursday.

Informed voting: A civic duty

Election time is here in full force.

Murder suspects in court

While sharing marijuana with two men, Wesley Collins was struck in the head with a hammer.

Sun Road opened to Avalanche

Visit the park for free through this Sunday

More roads are opening in Glacier National Park this week, and the vehicle gate on Going-to-the-Sun Road has been moved from Lake McDonald Lodge to Avalanche.

Rotary Club launches annual wine fundraiser

For the Kalispell Noon Rotary Club, it’s time for wine.

Wisconsin Avenue Skybridge

Glacier vs. Missoula Hellgate

VIDEO - Historic tree arrives at Central School

A rare section of an Indian ponderosa pine tree was discovered by Plum Creek employee Vic Anderson on Plum Creek land west of Hubbard Reservoir and was delivered and moved into the "Indians of Montana" exhibit in the museum Wednesday.

Audiio Slideshow - Youths hold vigil for slain man

Robert Lake, 21, and Jeffery Nixon, 19, were arrested Sunday afternoon in connection with the murder of Wesley Collins, 49. Youths at Club Dungeon, an underage nightclub gathered together Tuesday evening to perform a brief vigil in rememberance of Collins and to make a statement against violence and drug use.

Wesley Collins, 49

Wesley Collins, Bubba of Kalispell, has joined the Lord and his beloved black labrador, Spook. Wesley was born Oct. 17, 1960, in Whitefish and raised in Columbia Falls, where he attended school. He later went to work logging with his father. He enjoyed the outdoors and had a knack for fixing anything mechanical. He especially enjoyed the holiday gatherings and dinners with his family. Wesley is survived by his parents, Jean and Waylon Collins, of Columbia Falls; sister, Virginia Darsow, and husband, Terry, of Columbia Falls; sister, Carol Davies, and husband, Dick, of Bigfork; sister, Kathy Collins, of Columbia Falls; two brothers, Mike Collins of Kalispell, and Windy Collins and wife, Candy, of Missoula; and many nieces and nephews. We will miss him. We love you, dear, son and brother. Cremation will take place at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory in Kalispell. No services are planned.

Violet May Carlson, 89

Violet May Carlson, 89, of Columbia Falls, passed away on April 15, 2010. She was born April 14, 1921, in Ogema, Minn., to Raymond and Emma LaValley. On April 13, 1941, she married James C. Carlson in Pelican Rapids, Minn. Mom was a lifetime member of Daughters of the Nile, Sapphira Temple No. 79 and Order of the Eastern Star, Vista Chapter No. 44. Mom will be especially remembered for Living her way ... She was fearless when it came to trying something new... there wasn t anything she couldn t do, and do well... Her mind gave way to an incredible imagination and her hands were her instruments to carry out her artistry. She was an accomplished seamstress and worked many years as the costume designer for the Whitefish Theater Company. She raised money for various organizations by sharing her collection of antique clothing and accessories, taking people back in time with vintage fashion shows. She was a gifted musician. She was a notable antique collector, appraiser and dealer. In her lifetime she worked as a dental hygienist, tax preparer, waitress, cashier, volunteer and homemaker. As she stated many times, I grow old learning something new every day. Survivors include a brother, William LaValley, and sister-in-law, Theresa, of Columbia Falls; brother, Thomas LaValley, and sister-in-law, Dixie, of Columbia Falls; brother-in-law, Paul Hillestad, of Newport, Wash.; son, Thomas Carlson, and his wife, Claudia, of Lake Oswego, Ore.; daughter, Rae McMaster, of Kalispell; son, Vernon Carlson, of Williston, N.D.; daughter, Paula Robinson, and her husband, Richard, of Columbia Falls.; grandchildren, Suzanne Carlson, Scott and Laurie Gordon, Kevin and Heather McMaster, Dave and Angela LeFebvre, Erin Carlson and Steven Robinson, Michael Robinson, Jeremy and Mary Kellogg; great-grandchildren, Tasja and Adrian McMaster, and William Blake; and many nieces and nephews. Mom was preceded in death by her father and mother, Raymond and Emma LaValley; her husband, James C. Carlson; her sister, Betty Hillestad; her son-in-law, Frank McMaster; and grandsons; Carey and Ian McMaster. A memorial service will be held in July when family and friends can gather in celebration of her life. If love could have saved you mom, you would have lived forever... Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is assisting the family.

Michael Patrick Bleskin, 61

Michael Patrick Bleskin, 61, of Great Falls, died on Tuesday, April 20, 2010, at a local health-care center of natural causes. Visitation will be at Hillcrest Lawn Chapel on Friday, April 23, one hour prior to his funeral liturgy at 10:30 a.m. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on April 24, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Michael Mike, a special child of God, was born Nov. 2, 1948, to Margaret and Albin Bleskin in Kalispell. Mike lived in Kalispell until 1998, when he and his mother moved to New Mexico to live with his sister and her husband. Mike always had a smile on his face, and loved to go to basketball and hockey games. He also loved to swim with his friends at their pool. In 2002, he and his family moved back to Great Falls to be closer to family. Some of Mike s greatest loves included The Lawrence Welk Show and country music. Mike had a great knowledge and love for cars and had a great collection. He loved being part of Pete s Auto. He helped pick out ads, cleaned off cars and could name every car on the lot, thus Mike Bleskin, Manager. He got involved with Special Olympics through his brother-in-law, Roger, and brought home the Gold in walking events and bowling. What an achievement! Mike is a great blessing to all whose lives he has touched. He has shown us the true meaning of unconditional love. Survivors include a sister, Marcia Ouellette, and a brother, Peter D. Bleskin, both of Great Falls; and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his mom and dad; grandparents; and numerous uncles. The family suggests memorials to Great Falls Hornets, c/o Special Olympics Montana, P.O. Box 3507, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Frederick Herman Krause, 90

Frederick Herman Krause, 90, broke camp for one last time on April 12, 2010, at the Montana Veteran s Home in Columbia Falls. Fred was born near Polson to Edith (Rein) and Herman Krause on Jan. 20, 1920, and spent his early years there, before moving with the family to the Bad Rock area near Columbia Falls. He spent time in the Civilian Conservation Corps during the late 30s before moving to the Seattle area. Fred was Dutch Harbor, Alaska, as a civilian worker and was at sea when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. He was in Dutch Harbor on the two occasions when it was bombed. Returning to Seattle he worked in ship building until he was inducted into the U.S. Navy in 1943. He served with the Navy Construction Battalion CBs. He saw action in the Gilbert and Marshall island campaigns and on Iwo Jima, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received on May 13, 1945. Returning to the Flathead after the war, he met and married Minnie Hissong on Sept. 15, 1945, at her parents home in Somers. They were blessed with five children and over 64 years together. Fred was a logger without equal and a road builder. He was always proud of having built the Peter s Ridge Road to the Jewel Basin area. Through the woods weather logging, wood cutting or hunting was his greatest passion. He also farmed for many years west of Whitefish in the Bissell community, one of his special joys was to get the Christmas tree for the Bissell School. Fred was a man who worked hard but cared deeply for others and will be missed. Fred was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; one brother; and one grandson, Craig. He is survived by his wife, Minnie, at Colonial Manor in Whitefish; one sister, Colleen Schafer, of Bothell, Wash.; daughter, Myrna, and husband, James Dull, of Columbia Falls; sons, Fred Edwin of Columbia Falls, Harold and wife, Caroline, of Whitefish, Mark William of Pablo, and Steven Paul of Homer, Alaska, 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 1 to 8 p.m. today, April 22, at the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 23, at the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls, with Pastor Darrell Newby officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, with graveside military honors by the United Veterans of the Flathead and the Montana Army National Guard.

Crisis Line director to be honored

Janet Cahill will receive Kalispell Soroptimists’ 2010 Ruby Award: For Women Helping Women at a ceremony on Wednesday, April 28, at Jagz Restaurant, 3796 U.S. 2, in Kalispell.

Anglers setting Mack Days records

Anglers have hauled in a record 17,292 lake trout six weeks into the Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake.

Third suspect arrested

A third suspect who may be connected to last week’s drug-related homicide was arrested Tuesday by Kalispell Police.

Arndt, Big Sky Martial Arts land top honors in taekwondo

Big Sky Martial Arts was the top team in the final standings and also had the top individual performer at the Great Falls Taekwondo Championships on April 10.

Siren to sound again in Whitefish

History is being restored in Whitefish in the form of the familiar wail of the 10 o’clock nighttime siren.

Historic Tree moved into Central School

Rare Indian Pine Tree moved into Central School

Youth hold vigil for slain man

Youths hold vigil for slain man

Charles Aurand, 85

Charles Aurand, 85, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2010, at the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by family. Charlie was born June 9, 1924, in Halfmoon, to Parley and Agnes Aurand. He went to school up until the eighth grade, when he had to drop out to help on the family farm. After a short stint in the military, he went to work for the Burlington Northern Railroad where he worked hard for 58 years. After marrying lovely young Peggy Heindel, he raised two daughters, Janet and Charlene, and one son, Daniel. The family lived in Essex until the big flood of 64, when they moved to Lake Five, then to Columbia Heights for 16 years. He and Peggy moved in with their daughter Charlene for a couple of years, and then moved into the Whitefish Care and Rehab Center, where Peggy still resides. Charlie loved to laugh, sing, go fishing with the kids, and cook. He made the best sauerkraut on the planet! All of which he did very loudly! He is survived by his wife, Peggy; son, Daniel; and daughter, Charlene. Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 22, at Glacier Memorial Gardens.

Betty Joyce Barton, 75

Betty Joyce Barton, 75, passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Saturday, April 17, 2010. Betty was born Oct. 21, 1934, in Amarillo, Texas, to Clebert and Alveda (Murty) McCrary. Betty was raised in Campbell, Calif., and married Kenn Barton in San Jose, Calif., in 1951. They had been married for 59 years. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; son, Chris Barton; and a brother, William McCrary. She is survived by her husband, Kenn, of Kalispell; children, Craig and Cindy Barton of Kalispell, and Curtis Barton of Morgan Hill, Calif.; sisters, Carol Rezendez and Wynette Fleming; brothers, Bill Murty, Bob McCrary, Wayne Parsons and Donnie McRary; 15 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 23, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses, 1100 W. Reserve St., Kalispell. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses in Betty Barton s name. Friends are encouraged to visit the Web site at www.buffalohillfh.com to post notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Carol Lorraine (Clark) Hodgson

Carol Lorraine (Clark) Hodgson passed away April 12, 2010, at home in the arms of her loving family. She was born in 1925, in Lodgepole S.D., to LD and Merle (Nash) Clark. At a young age, Carol was profoundly influenced to become a nurse when her baby brother became extremely ill. She moved with her family to Whitefish in 1935 where she learned to drive tractor, milk cows and plant gardens, preserve the harvest and sew her own clothes. She is a graduate of Flathead County High School where she met the love of her life, Bill Hodgson. She graduated from Montana State University where she is a member of the Alpha Tau Delta nursing sorority. She and Bill were married in the Cathedral of Saint Anne in Great Falls and later moved to Bozeman where they had three daughters, Helen, Ann and Rita Jean. They moved to Pullman, Wash., where they had one son, Bill. They moved to Richland, Wash., in 1951 where they had a son, Bob, and a daughter, Carol Marie. Carol moved to Kalispell to be near family at the birth of twin daughters, Sharon and Susan, while Bill was on assignment for GE in Philadelphia. Bill and Carol moved back to Richland and had three daughters, Judy, Lisa and Jill, and two sons, Mark and George Brian. When all her children were in school or on their own, Carol returned to nursing as an OB nurse at Kadlec Hospital in Richland. She retired as night shift nurse supervisor after 25 years of service. Carol was always interested in home economy, grew her own vegetables and fruit, taught her children to garden, helped her daughters learn to sew, took painting, cake decorating, and millenary (hat-making) classes with daughters and granddaughters, and encouraged education of all kinds. She loved to attend football games, track meets, soccer and swim meets. She traveled to France in 1992 to watch her grandson bobsled in the Winter Olympics. Carol is survived by her husband, Bill; 11 children, 26 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren. Also surviving her locally are her brother, Bud Clark, and wife, Pat; sisters, Phyllis Claridge, Rita White and husband Herb, and Karen Obermayer and husband Bill, all of Kalispell. She was preceded in death by her father, mother and two sons. Her memorial Mass was celebrated at Christ the King Church in Richland on Friday, April 16.

Harold Dwight Bostic, 76

Harold Dwight Bostic, 76, passed away Tuesday, April 13, 2010. He was born in Rollins on Nov. 7, 1933, and lived the majority of his life in the Flathead Valley. He graduated from Flathead County High School in 1951 and continued to educate himself until his retirement in 1999. Harold married Charlotte F. Goldhammer on Aug. 4, 1956, and together they raised their three boys, Randy, Ron and Carey. Harold was a career truck driver most of his life. He drove a variety of trucks including tanker, long haul, and owned and operated his own logging truck. Harold was an avid and skilled modeler, building cars, boats and airplanes. Throughout his life he enjoyed motorcycling and snowmobiling with his family and friends. For Harold, the faster the machine, the better he enjoyed it! He enjoyed waterskiing, boating and camping. He was involved with his sons throughout their years in youth baseball, coaching at times, and always their number one supporter. Harold is survived by his wife of 53 years, Charlotte; sister, Phyllis Arnst, and husband, Fred; son, Randy, and his wife, Dawn; son, Ron, and his wife, Linda; son, Carey, and his wife, Heather; eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at 1 p.m. on April 26 at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Glacier Memorial Gardens. Friends are also invited to fellowship with the family following the graveside service, at the Church of the Nazarene, 1295 Whitefish Stage Road. The family suggests memorial contributions in Harold s name to the Church of the Nazarene, 172 Pine St., P.O. Box 2622, Columbia Falls, MT 59912; or to the Hand of Help, P.O. Box 496719, Garland, TX 75049. Friends are encouraged to visit the Website at www.buffalohillfh.com to post notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Russan (Samm) Elizabeth Adams, 48

Russan (Samm) Elizabeth Adams left this world on Friday, April 16, 2010, in Denver, while traveling home to Billings where she had resided for many years. She was 48. Russan was born in Havre to Yvonne Cottrell and Darrell Cady on June 6, 1961, making her the oldest of four siblings. Russan married Roger Adams III on May 3, 1986, in Milford, N.H., and had three children, Roger IV, Nikia and Johnna. In 1994 she found her partner Brent Sterrett with whom she shared the remainder of her life. Russan lived her life from coast to coast, living in Montana, New Hampshire, Colorado and California, to name a few. As long as she had sunshine she was happy. As a stay-at-home mom she enjoyed camping, shopping, lying in the sun, friends, and even home schooled her children for a short while during the elementary years. Russan was a wise woman who was not afraid to tell you how she felt. She was strong, fearless, generous and loving, and had endured much during her 48 years. She is survived by Brent Sterrett of Billings; her children, Roger Adams IV of Billings, and Nikia Adams of Billings; her mother, Yvonne Cottrell, of Kalispell; siblings, Rose Christianson of Havre, Charles Christianson of Havre, and Jennifer Rutherford of Kalispell; her grandmother, Georgia Frigon, of Havre; grandfather, Bim Cottrell, of Great Falls; and many aunties, uncles, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughters, Melissa May and Johnna Elizabeth; her uncle, Vern Cottrell; and her father, Darrell Cady. A celebration of her amazing life and the gifts she gave all who encountered her will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, April 23, at Smith s Funeral Chapel in Billings, with a reception to follow.

John Charles Jack Bloxham, 82

John Charles Jack Bloxham, 82, of Great Falls, died of pneumonia in Palm Desert, Calif. on April 16, 2010. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. at the Great Falls Christian Center on Friday. Burial will follow at Manchester Cemetery. Jack was born on March 13, 1928, to Charles John Chick and Ann (Smith) Bloxham in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Jack worked in the auction ring as a young boy with his father. Working with livestock led to buying cattle, bucking horses and race horses, and he taught himself to be an auctioneer. He competed in rodeos for many years. At one time he was a rodeo contractor with Bob Nordtome with Big Sky Rodeo. Jack also owned Bloxham Cattle Co. In January of 2010 he was inducted in the Montana State Rodeo Hall and Wall of Fame. He was a member of the Elks Club, MLCC, PRCA, and the Lades Country Club in Palm Desert. He loved fly fishing, snow skiing, and spending time with his family and friends. Jack is survived by his wife, Billie Jean, of Great Falls; daughters, Vickie and Spencer Workman, and Leslie and Allen Stensrud, all of Great Falls; stepsons, Doug and Jody Siderius, and Dan Siderius, all of Kalispell; stepdaughters, LeAnn Siderius of Kalispell, and Laurie and Kelly Quinlan of Hamilton. Jack is also survived by his sisters, Betty Anderson of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Jerry Rutledge of Wickenburg, Ariz.; 20 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Debbie Thigpen; and his former wives, Jackie and Margaret. Memorials can be made to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, P.O. Box 80807, Billings, MT; or Great Falls Easter Seals, 4400 Central Ave., Great Falls, MT 59405. Condolences to the family can be left at www.croxfordfuneralhome.com

Kenney, Polson club Ronan

POLSON — Riley Kenney broke out of a hitting slump by going 3-for-4 and driving in three runs as Polson whipped rival Ronan 9-1 in Northwestern A softball play on Tuesday.

Absentee balloting begins on May 10

Early voting for the June 8 primary election is less than three weeks away.

Hose-spraying ends peacefully in Olney

Although a neighbor apparently sprayed an Olney woman with a hose and screamed profanities around 5 p.m. Monday, a woman reported to

June trials planned in drinking cases

Two bowling alley employees, accused of serving the drunken driver responsible for a crash that killed a Montana Highway Patrol trooper, will face trial this summer.

Council votes for ban on pot 'pharmacies'

A Kalispell City Council vote to ban any new medical marijuana businesses in the city prompted grumblings of “the government’s about the government,” and “we’ll take our money elsewhere” as a crowd of some 50 supporters abruptly left Monday night’s council meeting.

Frey flies at Glacier track dual

Wolfpack senior sets two school records in dual with Whitefish

As Glacier track coach Jerry Boschee put it, there were small successes and big noticeable ones at the Glacier-Whitefish dual track meet on Tuesday.

Whitefish, Kila seeking levy OK from voters

Fewer than half of Flathead County’s public school districts are holding elections this spring. Of those, only three districts are asking voters to approve levies on May 4.  Kalispell and Whitefish are asking voters in their elementary districts to support general fund levies. Kila has requested a building reserve levy. Kalispell Public Schools is asking voters for a $338,000 levy in its elementary district. Whitefish also is asking elementary voters to approve a levy. The elementary district faces a $125,000 budget shortfall in 2010-11. To help make up the difference, the district is asking taxpayers to approve a $40,643 levy. If voters give it the green light, the levy will increase annual property taxes on a home with a $100,000 taxable value by about $1.47. Property taxes on a home with a $200,000 taxable value would go up by about $2.93 a year. The bulk of the levy would be used to sustain instructional materials, including paying subscription fees for library materials and computer-assisted tutorial programs. Some money would be used to replace furniture at Muldown Elementary, and the remaining money would allow the Whitefish Middle School performing arts program to continue. Even with the levy, the district will have to make cuts in its elementary and high school budgets. The high school district faces a $325,000 shortfall in 2010-11, but the district chose to reduce its budget rather than ask taxpayers to support a levy. In addition to the elementary request, Whitefish voters will choose between four candidates for two full, three-year seats on the board of trustees.  Voters in the Kila School District have been asked to support a $150,000 building reserve levy. That amount would be levied over three years, district clerk Sharon Leach said. Last June, voters overwhelmingly rejected the district’s $2.1 million bond request that would have given Kila School an 11,423-square-foot expansion. During community meetings before the bond election, several taxpayers asked why the district didn’t ask for a building reserve levy instead, Leach said. “So we’re putting it before voters again,” she said. Money from the levy wouldn’t allow the school to add on, she added. “This is just general building maintenance we need.” If voters approve the levy request, annual property taxes on a home with a $100,000 taxable value would increase by about $29.62. Property taxes on a home with a $200,000 taxable value would increase by about $59.24 a year. In addition to the levy, Kila voters will choose from six candidates to fill two three-year terms on the school board.  For six school districts, trustee elections are the only issues on the ballot. Three candidates are running for two three-year positions on Bigfork’s school board. Five candidates are vying for two three-year seats on the Columbia Falls board. Smith Valley and Somers-Lakeside each have five candidates vying for two three-year terms open on each board. Two candidates are running for a one-year seat on Helena Flats’ school board. West Valley has three candidates for two three-year positions. West Valley also asking voters to approve a $3.5 million bond issue, but that is a separate mail-ballot election. Those ballots will be mailed May 25.  Ten school districts will not have elections this spring. Cayuse Prairie, Creston, Deer Park, Evergreen, Fair-Mont-Egan, Marion, Olney-Bissell, Pleasant Valley, Swan River and West Glacier schools are not running elections.  In these districts, trustees voted not to ask taxpayers to approve levies, and their school board openings were filled by acclamation — that is, the same number of candidates applied as there were seats available.  Reporter Kristi Albertson may be reached at 758-4438 or by e-mail at kalbertson@dailyinterlake.com.

Bigfork netters sweep Glacier

BIGFORK — The second time around was just like the first meeting on the courts for Bigfork and Glacier in tennis.

Voters asked to approve tax levy

Kalispell voters have two weeks to decide how deep the cuts will be in next year’s elementary school budget.

Daily Inter Lake location

Glacier v. Whitefish

Diane Pickavance in Justice Court

Nathan Hale in Justice Court

Earth Day Bags

Ezra Ray Birky, 87

Ezra Ray Birky, 87, passed away on April 16, 2010. He was born Nov. 11, 1922, to Joseph and Amanda Birky in White Sulphur Springs. He and his brother, Paul, owned and operated Evergreen Timber Company for many years. He was a father and friend to many, and a lifelong member of Mountain View Mennonite Church. A private family memorial served will be held later in the year.

County compiles gravel-resource map

A new gravel resource map that details the locations of current gravel pits and their geology is available from the Flathead County Planning Office.

Murder victim 'vulnerable'

The Kalispell man who was murdered last week was using medical marijuana to wean himself off prescription drugs, and the suspects in the killing allegedly had been stealing his pills for the last couple of months, a friend of the victim said Monday.

Whitefish 'feast' airing on PBS

The Whitefish episode of “The Endless Feast” began airing this month on Public Broadcasting Service stations nationwide.

Daybook

Today

Food purveyors get grades to display for public

The Flathead County Board of Health unanimously has approved a new program providing sanitation grades from A+ to F for restaurants and all retail food purveyors to post for the public to see.

Kalispell woman reaches 100-year mark

Mildred Hadley Morrison, a longtime resident of Kalispell, turns 100 on Monday, April 26.

Dispute could have involved knives

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report from a woman who said her husband was having a dispute with another man, involving a knife, on the 2700 block of Foothill Road early Monday. It was determined that there was no assault and a deputy got the other man to leave.

Cranes

District Music Festival

Barn builing east of Kalispell

Dorothy Monson, 94

Dorothy Monson, 94, passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. She was born Sept. 19, 1916, in Devils Lake, N.D., to Carl and Nettie Nelson. After graduating from Devils Lake High School in l934, she enrolled in Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., where she graduated in 1938 with a major in English and a minor in music. She taught English and music at the high school in Warwick, N.D., for a year, and on Jan. 1, 1940, she married Allwin Monson, a Concordia College classmate from Shelby. They lived in St. Thomas, N.D., for a few months, and then moved to Denver, where Allwin received a master s degree in speech. After a year in Denver they moved to Syracuse, N.Y., where they lived until Allwin joined the faculty at Concordia College in 1948. In 1950 Dorothy went to work in the Office of the Academic Dean at Concordia, where she headed the Placement Office. In that capacity she helped students through the interview and hiring process for their first jobs after graduation. After several years in the Placement Office Dorothy retired, but soon after retirement went back to school at Concordia to update her teaching certificate. She then took a temporary position in the Moorhead Public Schools teaching special-needs students, and discovered her passion was teaching special education. At the age of 53, after teaching special-needs students for a number of years, Dorothy got a sabbatical to attend graduate school at San Francisco State University, where she received her master s degree in special education. She returned to the Moorhead schools and taught special education for several years before retiring. In 1983 Dorothy and Allwin moved to Kalispell. Dorothy did volunteer work in Kalispell, and they enjoyed hiking, camping, fishing and cross-country skiing. Among friends and family Dorothy became famous for her huckleberry pies baked on a camp stove and her skill in driving bears out of camp with a canoe paddle. Dorothy is survived by her husband Allwin, of Kalispell; a daughter, Joyce Tsongas and a son, Arthur Monson, both of Portland; as well as a grandson, Christopher Tsongas of Seattle, and a granddaughter, Mika Tsongas of Sandpoint, Idaho. A memorial service and celebration of Dorothy s life will be held at Northridge Lutheran Church in Kalispell at 11 a.m. Monday, May 3. Memorials may be made in Dorothy s name to the worship and music fund at Northridge Lutheran Church in Kalispell. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Dorothy s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Dorothy s tribute wall.

Shirley Marie Truman-Kaufman, 74

Shirley Marie Truman-Kaufman, 74, of Eureka, born Feb. 23, 1936, went home to our heavenly father peacefully surrounded by family and close friends on Saturday, April 17, 2010. Shirley was born to Franklin Wayne Truman and Nellie May Triplett-Truman at Mrs. Olson s in Eureka. The Truman family homesteaded on the West Kootenai near Rexford in August 1910. Shirley lived most of her life in the Rexford and Eureka areas. Shirley was a very spiritual person who loved reading her Bible. In her younger years she enjoyed fishing and the outdoors. Her other hobbies included sewing, crocheting, knitting, cooking and baking for the holidays. On Dec. 12, 1954, Shirley Marie Truman married Anthony Paul Torres in Eureka. Together they had five children, Andy, Rocky, Suzze, Teresa and Barbara Ann Torres. Following the divorce of this union, Shirley married Darrell Pop Kaufman on Jan. 25, 1985. Together they shared many years filled with happiness and precious memories. They celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this year. Shirley is survived by her loving husband Darrell Kaufman; her children; Andy Torres of Billings, Rocky Torres and Sue Torres of Gillette, Wyo., Teresa Torres of Whitefish and Barbara Ann Torres of Columbia Falls; stepfather Don Darling of Rexford; sisters Barbara Jean Cook of Eureka, Sharkey and her husband Tom Kraus of Whitefish, Cheri and her husband David Butts of Rexford; brother Frank Bud Truman of Drummond; uncle Gordy Triplett of Missoula; brother in-law Bruce and his wife Wanda Kaufman of Baker City, Ore., sister-in-law Sandy Kaufman of Kelowna, B.C.; stepchildren Darylene, Sam, Mike and Steven Kaufman, all of Florida; special caretaker (other son), Danny Williamson, whom we are forever indebted to; Faye Oldhouse, her dearest and loyal friend to the end; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews. Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, sister Lorse May, grandson Levi Flint, granddaughters Angie Schwirse and Brenda, Slade and Dylan Groene, and many more relatives. Funeral services are under the direction of Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Eureka. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 22, at the Baptist Church in Eureka.

2 men arrested in drug-related homicide

Police have released the name of a Kalispell man killed in an alleged medical marijuana-related incident.

Fund's fate is up for discussion

Kalispell City Council will have a controversial decision to mull over when it tackles a proposal tonight to distribute money accumulated in the Westside Tax Increment Financing District this year.

Whitefish Baker Avenue Bridge

Law enforcement roundup

Kalispell police are investigating a report of a 50-year-old woman who was beaten by a man Friday night severely enough to need transport to Kalispell Regional Medical Center’s emergency room late Saturday afternoon.

Whitefish Baker Avenue

Baker Avenue in Whitefish.

Steve Kinniburgh profile

A man on the move

Kinniburgh has long career in building relocation

Floating houses.

State wants Baker Avenue for truck route

Last ublic meeting slated for April 26

A plan to rebuild U.S. 93 through downtown Whitefish and convert Baker Avenue into a truck route is down to the wire, with a final public meeting set next week.

Daybook

Today

Jerry Ralph Wallem, 76

Jerry Ralph Wallem, 76, passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at the Brendan House in Kalispell. He was born April 18, 1933, in Fargo, N.D., during the height of one of America s greatest historic moments " the Great Depression. His parents, Esther (Burmeister) Wallem and Joseph Wallem, a World War I veteran, moved from Fargo with their three older sons to Glasgow, to follow the building of the Fort Peck dam. Families followed jobs; a tradition that persists today. As a highly impressionable pre-adolescent during World War II, the great wars " fought by his father, older relatives and friends " influenced his decision to join the Navy upon graduating from Glasgow High School in 1951. Jerry served as a machinist/mate class A in the Pacific aboard the U.S.S. Sicily aircraft carrier during the Korean War in the 1950s. Jerry was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, China Service Record, and United Nations Service Medal. Jerry s military service is further evidence that his life is a reflection of the times. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1956, Jerry joined the Morrison-Maierle Consulting Engineering firm as a Rodman and Chainman for the Glasgow Air Force Base. He continued his distinguished 38-year career with the firm, and was the lead surveyor, crew chief, and resident project representative on numerous projects. Jerry was a builder who contributed his surveying skills on some of the Pacific Northwest s largest construction projects, the interstate highway system in Montana, Washington and Oregon, dams along the Columbia River and its tributaries, wastewater treatment plants, and airports. By the time he retired in 1994, he had the longest career of active Morrison-Maierle employees. He was forced into early retirement in 1994 by a debilitating stroke. Jerry married Bonnie Ruth Brown on August 18, 1962 and together they forged a loving marriage and partnership that lasted nearly half a century. Jerry, you didn t set out to change the world, but your lifetime of loyalty and dedication to your family, your career with Morrison-Maierle, Inc., and your conservative values had a positive and lasting impact on your family and community. Your willingness to do your work everyday helped to weave a tapestry that gave your family the freedom to explore their passions. Your contributions to society were many: the interstate, the dams, the airports, the roads, and wastewater treatment plants. America s, especially the Pacific Northwest s, transportation and energy systems benefited all because of your, and others like you, dedication to your job. We ll miss your quiet humility and your beautiful smile that lit up your wonderful blue eyes. Thank you! Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Bonnie; infant children, Celeste and Luther; parents, Joseph and Esther Wallem; in-laws, Don and Esther Brown; brothers, Ronald, Charles and Kenneth; sister, Joann Crowley; and sister-in-law, Carolee. Jerry is survived by his daughter, Leslie; grandchildren, Alec and Tori; brother, Glen; brothers-in-law, Jack Crowley and Scott Brown; sisters-in-law, Alice and Mary Wallem, Marsha Paulson and Judy McKenna; and numerous nieces and nephews. A combined memorial service for Jerry and Bonnie are pending. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Jerry s family.

Jeann M. Ramsey, 87

Jeann M. Ramsey, 87, passed away Sunday, April 11, 2010, at her home in Missoula. Jeann was born Dec. 31, 1922, in Butte, to William John and Clara Agnes (Shoop) McIntosh. She attended Emerson Grade School in Butte and graduated from Butte Public High School. Jeann was united in marriage to Robert J. Bob Ramsey on Sept. 15, 1943, in Great Falls. During her working years, Jeann held various bookkeeping positions in Butte, including Hansen Packing, Victor Chemical, Ambrose Distributing and Carr-O Neill Brokerage. She enjoyed activities with a variety of organizations including the Butte Junior Women s Club, the Order of Eastern Star (past worthy matron), Good Sam Club and the Christian Life Center s Senior and Widows groups. She and Bob enjoyed many good years camping, boating and fishing in Western Montana and after retirement, they loved traveling south in their motorhome during the winter months. Jeann cherished her many old-time friends from Butte, as well as friends from the East Fork of the Bitterroot and Missoula, especially the Katoonah Lodgers . With some of these friends, she maintained relationships through extended phone calls, regular cards and letters, in some cases lasting decades. She also thoroughly enjoyed her kids from the Perkins restaurant. Jeann was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Lucille Hamilton and Dorothy Springer; and a brother, William J. McIntosh. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Karla Ramsey of Bigfork; grandsons and their wives, Rob and Katja Ramsey of Houston, and Steve and Aurelia Ramsey of Bigfork; and great-granddaughter, Rob s daughter, Emma Ramsey, of Alameda, Calif. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 22, at the Christian Life Center, with Pastor David Phillips officiating. A reception will follow the service, also at the church. Cremation and Burial Society of the Rockies Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Athena Bauer, 94

Athena Bauer, 94, passed away April 15, 2010, following a brief illness, after sharing her love with family and friends one last time. She was born Athena Arger, July 27, 1915, in American Fork, Utah. She spent her formative years in the Tacoma area. She had an adventurous early life, living for a time in Alaska and Butte, before settling for good in the Flathead Valley. She persevered through the early loss of her mother and then three husbands, Milton Valison, Pete Pike, and Art Bauer, taking every hurdle in stride and becoming the rock on which others leaned. She is survived by her three daughters, Catherine Mills, Becka Arnold, and Shirley Pleuss; as well as eleven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren in two more generations. In addition, she will be greatly missed by the families of LaVerne Fredenberg and Dorothy Frehse, whom she often called her second family. Athena was a hard worker who put in many years in the local potato fields, the Flathead Cherry Warehouse and Snowline Tree Company. In retirement she and Art loved to travel and attend Good Sam gatherings in the summer, and ice fish at Duck Lake in the winter. She was an avid reader and produced beautiful crewel needlework wall hangings. Her gardening skills were legendary, and she still tended her large potato patch and dug her own spuds to the very end. She introduced many to the pursuit of wild asparagus and loved to pick huckleberries. Known as an expert at Greek cooking and canning, many memorable meals were served across her tables. Her uncommon knack for dispensing wisdom mixed with wit led to accumulating many dear friends of all ages. While no shrinking violet, she had a way of giving good advice without preaching it. Her body finally gave out, but her mind and spirit never did. Friends are invited to a celebration of her life at 11 a.m. Monday, April 19, at the Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. In lieu of memorials, the family suggests that you send flowers to someone you love in Athena s memory.

Glacier's Bates knocks off Braun

MISSOULA - Glacier's Kellen Bates beat two-time defending Class AA state champion Eric Braun of Missoula Hellgate 6-2-6-4 on Saturday in dual action.

Sturgeon spill still planned at Libby

With a boost from recent precipitation, it appears that spilling water for Kootenai River white sturgeon is still on track at Libby Dam.

W. Glacier to keep four-day school week

The school week will remain short at West Glacier Elementary School.

Stumpjumper Days Pole Climb

Machete-wielding woman walks

Holding a machete, a woman was seen walking along First Avenue South, mumbling to herself around 8:30 p.m. Friday.

Daybook

Nuclear progress or a punt?

The recent negotiation of a U.S.-Russian nuclear treaty and a nuclear summit that attracted 46 world leaders to Washington had all the appearances of being immensely important, but appearance was about it.

Kalispell may ban land use for marijuana

If the Kalispell City Council approves the first reading of a proposed law Monday night, the city could be on its way to an outright ban on growing or selling medical marijuana on land anywhere in city limits.

Flathead shines at Missoula Invite

MISSOULA - The Flathead boys picked up second place and the girls finished third out of 17 teams at the Missoula Invitational track meet on Saturday.

At Peaceful Gardens, it's always growing season

Bigfork co-op tries year-round gardening in domed greenhouse

On a slushy, snowy April morning, Paul Renner stands surrounded by lush produce in a 51-foot diameter, 22-foot high geodesic dome greenhouse off the Swan Highway near Bigfork.

Hot, cold 'Kats split with Havre

COLUMBIA FALLS - The bats were fickle Saturday for the Columbia Falls Wildkat softball team.

Tea: Vaccine against the Partisan Virus

Democrats cannot save this country. Neither can Republicans.

Week in Pictures April 12-18

Columbia Falls vs. Havre Softball Tori Price

Bigfork Track Invitational Javelin

Bigfork Track Invitational High Jump

Columbia Falls vs. Havre Softball

Stumpjumper Days Vertical Chop

Stumpjumper Days Choker Race

Carter Thomas Dunkin

son of Brad and Lynsey Dunkin of Kalispell, was born Feb. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kamp Daven Kastner

son of Keith and Corrin Kastner of Kalispell, was born Mar. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Riley Julius Scott Kirkland

son of Tifani Church of Whitefish, was born March 8 at North Valley Hospital.

Tristan Nathaniel Topp

son of Brian and Kimberly Topp of Kalispell, was born Feb. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kalista Willow Kertes

daughter of Eben Kertes and Tori Uvaney of Lakeside, was born Feb. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Abigail Lynn Kanzler

daughter of Kenny Kanzler and Carly Wallace of Troy, was born Feb. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ethan Scott Haubrich-Lonon

son of Jennifer Haubrich and Scott Lonon of Bigfork, was born Feb. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Isabella Ann Rinehart

daughter of Brian and Rachel Rinehart of Kalispell, was born Feb. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Mikael Arnold Tonjum

son of Trevor and Kaisa Tonjum of Kalispell, was born Jan. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Whitefish passes test in softball win

WHITEFISH — Plenty of teaching moments.

North Shore Ranch land deal dead

The Flathead Land Trust was unable to reach an agreement with developers Keith Simon and Sean Averill to purchase the North Shore Ranch property near Somers.

Polson perfect in Cut Bank duals

CUT BANK — Polson pumped up its dual record in tennis on Friday during first-day action at the Cut Bank Tournament.

Remembering Hanna

Teachers learn from each other

Instructors take a look at their co-workers’ teaching styles

It had been a busy period in Sue Brown’s third-period English class at Flathead High School.

High marks for local athletes in track

The track season is about to finally take off.

Crews have to re-plow park roads

Glacier National Park got nearly a foot of snow over the last week, sending snow plows back to areas that had already been cleared.

Jobless rate still increasing

Northwest Montana continues to endure the throes of high unemployment, according to the latest state figures released Friday.

Police find two bodies Friday

A body was found at a Two Mile Drive residence at 1:16 p.m. Friday, according to

Daybook

Alleged waste in bay actually was cattails

Last week’s incident of alleged human waste found in Bigfork Bay was actually a case of mistaken identity.

Remembering Hanna - Group Prayer for Hanna

Remembering Hanna Robin Cini

Bozeman, Montana Tea Party 4.15.2010

Peaceful Gardens

Rodrigo Soto DeAlvarado, 36

Rodrigo Soto DeAlvarado, 36, passed away April 12, 2010, at his favorite hiking trail in Lone Pine State Park. He was born an identical twin to parents Marco Aurelio DeAlvarado and Sharron Bozman Rigg on Sept. 1, 1973, in Missoula. He grew up living in many Montana cities, enjoying the splendid natural beauty and recreation each offered, graduating from Shelby High School, as well as Flathead Valley Community College. He is survived by Neva Fladager and Korrie DeAlvarado; his children, Carlos, Isabella, Jethanial and Shanae; as well as his adopted father, Marty Rigg; brothers, Paulo and Jodie Rigg, and Donato and Carolyn DeAlvarado-Rigg; grandmothers, Della Bozman and Dottie Gomer; and nieces and nephews, Brady, Mystie, Tanner, Nolan and Sydney. He joins grandfather, Ray; and grandparents, Peter and Lillian, in the afterlife. Rodrigo had always favored one quest ... one God, one spirit, one lesson. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 17, at St. Paul s Lutheran Church, 202 Brooks St., Missoula, followed by interment at Missoula City Cemetery. Please join family and friends as we say good-bye and share our love and memories of Rodrigo, who was a loving father, companion, brother, son, and avid outdoorsman.

Paul Henry Hank Hayes, 31

Paul Henry Hank Hayes, 31, left us too soon to be with his Father in heaven on April 7, 2010. He was born April 19, 1978, in Cut Bank. From the beginning Hank was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed fishing of all kinds. He loved being in the outdoors, whether it was hunting, camping or hiking; it was where he found his peace. Hank also loved being with family and friends, and especially loved to have a big barbecue. He was a true artist; able to draw and capture the inner beauty of things. He will be greatly missed, more than words can express. Hank was preceded in death by his parents, Gene Hayes and Linda Lyle. He is survived by his fiancee, Terrah Messick; their unborn son; and his future stepdaughter, Aieryanna; a sister, Amy, and her husband, Richard, of Oregon; his brother, Frank, of Kalispell; and his grandfather, Frank Knapp, of Shelby. He leaves behind many uncles and aunts, nieces and nephews, and friends whom he loved so very much. Services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 19, in the Ponderosa Room at City Hall, 952 East Spruce, in Libby. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby.

Paul Eldon Heidegger, 70

Paul Eldon Heidegger, 70, passed away Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at his home in Lonepine. Paul was born Jan. 10, 1940, to Charles R. and Ruth E. Heidegger in Colville, Wash. A local rancher and U.S. Air Force veteran, Paul was a member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church in Lakeside. Paul is survived by his wife Yvonne (Kaski) Heidegger, of 45 years; and his nine children, son, Paul, and Missy of Kalispell; daughters, Carrie and Andy Halme of Davenport, Wash.; Diana and Stephen Granger of Rising Sun, Md.; Michelle and Craig Pettitt of North East Maryland; Charlene and Lason Lindberg of Yacolt, Wash.; Carol and Andy Homola, Lynette and Matt Ek, and Tamara and Charles McDaniels, all of Lonepine; and Sheri and Gabriel Abernathy of Proctor. He is also survived by two brothers, Albert and Shelly of Yacolt, and Harold and Mary of Battle Ground, Wash.; five sisters, Margaret and Pete Paladeni of Yacolt; Lillian and Wilbur Koistinen of Hayti, S.D.; Raydene and Earl McDaniels of Yacolt; Barbara and Clar Jolma of Hot Springs; and Faith and Dave Kangas of Battle Ground; and mother-in-law, Wilma Kaski, of Kalispell. He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister, Hope; granddaughter, Dru Granger; and father-in-law, Harold Kaski. Viewing will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 19, at the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, 215 Blacktail Road, in Lakeside. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 20, at the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at the C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Daybook

State looks for source of pollution

Human waste and hygiene products aren’t what people expect to see while strolling down the shore of Bigfork Bay, but that’s what some saw last week.

Libby, Polson sweep net duals

WHITEFISH — It was all Libby as the Loggers, led by defending state singles champion Jackie Mee, rolled to a 7-0 victory over Whitefish in a Western A tennis dual on Thursday.

Hundreds gather for Kalispell Tax Day rally

A crowd of more than 300 people rallied for a Tax Day tea party in Kalispell Thursday, with a broad message protesting government growth, spending and taxation.

Malecha double winner for Eureka

THOMPSON FALLS — Eureka’s Bailey Malecha won both the 400 and 800 and the Lions came in third as a team on the girls side at the Thompson Falls Invitational track meet on Thursday.

County won't impose marijuana rules

Commissioners say actions could be nullified if next Legislature changes law

By LYNNETTE HINTZE

Duford's arm, Benson's bat power Polson

POLSON — Freshman Shay Duford struck out eight Hamilton batters, gave up four hits and walked two as the Polson Pirates overcame six errors to defeat the visiting Broncs 6-1 in a nonconference softball matchup on Thursday.

State has a growing problem

A story by the Montana Policy Institute this week highlighted a growing problem — government is now the largest employment sector in the state.

Loyola dominates at Bigfork

Bigfork’s Kyle Parker and Sara Keenan were hoping for a much better showing on their home course Thursday.

Groups still fuming over planning director

The county commissioners’ decision Monday not to rehire Jeff Harris as planning director had apparently done little to appease property-rights advocates, who had lobbied for Harris to be fired based on a number of grievances.

Potato shooter peels from scene

A suspect in a parking-lot shooting is still at large, according to

Bigfork Invitational Golf Cutbank's Mariah McCormick

Bigfork Golf Invitational Boys

Tax Day Tea Party "Don't tread on my future"

Tax Day tea party

Blacktail snowboarder

Earl Milton Buckie Norris, 84

Earl Milton Buckie Norris, 84, passed away on Sunday, April 11, 2010, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls. He was born at Lake Five in June of 1925 to Royal A. Norris and Effie M. Halberg. He was raised and schooled in Belton, until the family was displaced by the 1929 fire and moved to Kalispell. Earl loved the Lake Five area and returned as often as possible to fish the Middle Fork River, hunt the area and trap for extra income for his family. Buckie entered the U.S Navy in 1942 and was assigned to the USN Frigate Idaho and then later the USS Block Island, which was destroyed in the South Pacific. He then transferred to the Ticonderoga which later was hit by three torpedoes and kamikazes. He was awarded one Bronze Star and three Silver Stars. After serving his country from 1942 to 1945 Buckie returned to the Flathead Valley and worked in the logging industry for a period of time. He then started working for Glen King as a meat cutter at King s Market on Main Street. In 1947 Buckie worked for Don Peterson and Jesse Eayrs at the original Meats Supply on Second Street West in Kalispell. Later on, he joined Don Rasmussen and started the eastside Superette on 10th Street and Fourth Avenue East. Upon selling the Superette he went to work for F.H. Stoltze as a plainer set-up foreman. Due to a mill accident he left there and went to Evergreen School District and later with Jesse Eayrs at Meats Supply at 601 Washington. Buckie was married to Betty L. Bosley for over 33 years. She currently resides in Portland. He later met and married Gloria Garvin and then moved to Tampa, Fla., to enjoy retirement. After Gloria s death he moved back to Kalispell in March of 2006 where he lived with his son until March of 2009, when he moved to the veterans hospital in Columbia Falls, where he died April 11, 2010. Buckie was active in the Evergreen Lions Club, Moose Lodge in Kalispell and Tampa, and Boy Scouts Troop 48 in Evergreen (in his earlier years here). Buckie was preceded in death by his parents, Royal and Effie Norris; infant daughter, Danna; brothers, Clifford, who died in the Korean War, William and Harold; sisters, Mildred and Dorothy Birky; wife, Gloria; and special friend, Lee Taylor. He is survived by his sister, Verna Landon; and brothers, Ray Norris of Kalispell and Albert Norris of Colorado; daughters, Linda Corrigan of Portland, Janice Vachal and husband, Dan, of Somers, and Jeri Truckner and husband, Dave, of North Dakota; and son, William Norris, and wife, Sandy, of Kalispell. He also has 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Buckie will be buried at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 16, at Fairview Cemetery. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. in Kalispell at the Bible Baptist Church on Highway 2 north of Reserve Drive with Pastor Nathan Bemis officiating. Johnson-Gloschat funeral home is caring for Buckie s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Buckie s tribute wall.

Doris L. Root, 82

Doris L. Root, 82, passed away on Thursday, April 8, 2010, at her residence in Kalispell. She was born in Kevin on April 23, 1927, to Harold and Myrtle (Stover) Miller. She was one of 13 children and lived most of her life in the Shelby and Kevin area. On Feb. 9, 1949, she married William Billy Root. They raised three children and always had time for their nieces and nephews. Doris loved to play cards, cook and watch any kind of sports. She belonged to a bowling league and was a member of the Eagles. She was always in on a good practical joke. They moved to Kalispell in 1967 where she continued to be a homemaker and supporter of her husband s music. The family was most important to her and she never forgot a birthday. After 51 years of marriage, she lost the love of her life on Thanksgiving eve, 2000. Doris was preceded in death by her parents; and her nine siblings, seven brothers, Robert, Bud, Hal, Kenny, Glen, Leonard and Richard Miller, and one sister, Margaret McLeod; and an infant; also her husband, Billy. She is survived by one son, Thomas W. Root, of Shelby; two daughters, Nancy Reid and husband, Tom, and Judy Schreckendgust and husband, Bo, all of Kalispell; two stepdaughters, Shirley Ballantyne and husband, Jim, of Shelby, and Diane Roberge and husband, Leo, of Kalispell; four grandchildren, James Schreckendgust and Jason Schreckendgust and wife, Lisa, Robert Reid and significant other, Amy Gries, all of Kalispell, and Melissa Reid Speer and husband, Cory, of Spirit Lake, Idaho, five stepgrandchildren, Damon, Lance and Jamie Ballantyne, and Marcie and Jerrett Roberge; seven great-grandchildren; six stepgreat-grandchildren; two sisters, Betty Welker of Shelby, and Mary Jean Reeser of Spokane; and one brother, Jack Miller, of Billings. Funeral services for Doris will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 17, at Johnson - Gloschat Funeral Chapel with Pastor Ron Pierce officiating. Burial will follow services at Glacier Memorial Gardens. A reception will be held at the Eagles. The family suggests donations be made to Shelby High School Track and Field Fund, c/o Tom Root, 310 O Haire Blvd., Shelby, MT 59474. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Doris family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Doris tribute wall.

Robert G. Bob Meerkatz, 75

Robert G. Bob Meerkatz, 75, passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, surrounded by his loving family, at home in Kalispell. He was born in Polk, Neb., on Aug.16, 1934, to G.A. and Perry (Stibor) Meerkatz. The family moved to Boise, Idaho, where Bob attended grade school. He moved to Rawlins, Wyo., in 1948 as a freshman, graduating in 1952. Bob married Frances Hatch on June 3, 1954, and they later had three children, Robin, Jerry and Jeff. Bob worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and Sinclair Refinery until 1958, when he enrolled in Court Reporting School in Minneapolis. Graduating in 1960, he began working in Kalispell as a court reporter for the 11th Judicial District. He truly loved his interesting job while working with Judge Frank Haswell and Judge Robert Sykes, and retired in 1993, after 32 years. He and his partner Bob Nieboer owned Meerkatz and Nieboer Reporting Service until 1997. In retirement, Bob continued to enjoy his hobby of collecting and restoring antique automobiles. He was very active in the Flathead Pioneer Auto Club and also belonged to the Glacier Street Rod Club. He cherished family gatherings the most, but also enjoyed camping, golfing, hunting, fishing and reading. Always a gregarious man, he enjoyed laughter with his family and friends to the fullest. In his words, Remember the good times, for there were many. Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Perry, in 1994; and his father, G.A., in 2006. He is survived by his loving wife, Frances; daughter, Robin Panza and husband, Frank; son, Jerry Meerkatz, and wife, Tori; and their children, Sarah and Jake; and son, Jeff Meerkatz and wife, Tracy, and their children, Casey and Michael; brother-in-law, Larry, and his wife, Tudy, and their families; and brother-in-law, David, and his wife, Sue Ann, and their family. Friends are invited to a celebration of life for Bob from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 17, at the home of Jerry and Tori Meerkatz, 392 3rd Ave. E.N., Kalispell. Separately, there will be a private urn burial at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Montana, 1629 Ave. D., Billings, MT 59102. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Bob s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Bob s tribute wall.

Tribes pull back on netting plan

Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribal officials said they are backing off plans for gill netting on Flathead Lake and are willing to consider other methods for suppressing lake trout.

Yard clearing

Kalispell pond stocked with fish

The Dry Bridge Family Fishing Pond in Kalispell recently was stocked with more than 2,000 rainbow trout with the help of Hooked On Fishing fourth-graders from Hedges and Peterson schools.

Tax Day rallies planned today

A Tax Day rally is planned at 3 p.m. today at Depot Park in Kalispell.

Meeting looks at North Fork Road options

A “corridor planning study” for the North Fork Road will be the topic of an April 20 meeting sponsored by the Montana Department of Transportation and Flathead County.

'Death threat' just a misunderstanding

Thinking his ex-girlfriend had plans to harm him, a man called police. Upon investigation,

Health-care money may help community center

The Flathead Community Health Center and others across the country stand to benefit from $11 billion included in the new health-care reform legislation to expand access to primary care.

State defends its own rights

The state of Montana is playing David to the U.S. government’s Goliath in a legal battle that could determine the extent of state sovereignty for years to come.

Vasquez acquitted of assault

A Whitefish man was acquitted Wednesday of all charges, concluding a weeklong trial over alleged abuse of a young boy.

Keenan steady on links for Vals

Golfers head to Eagle Bend for today’s Bigfork Invitational

The one thing you can say about Sara Keenan's golf game so far this spring is that it's been very consistent.

Daybook

Ski areas weather El Nino winter

Despite a rough economy and less-than-average snowfall this winter, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area report successful seasons.

Missoula passes anti-discrimination ordinance

John Robin Darrow, 49

John Robin Darrow, 49, a resident of Cusick, Wash., lifted his sails on April 9, 2010, concluding his journey here on earth, after a brief battle with cancer. John was born Jan. 2, 1961, in Billings to George and Eileen Darrow. He was raised and educated in Billings. Then he went on to attend Flathead Valley Community College. John spent many of his summers in the Beartooth Mountains, hiking, fishing, camping and helping his family run a boat rental business at Kersey Lake. Here is where he developed his love of nature and appreciation of all creation. In 1984, John moved to the northeastern Washington area where he spent most of his working career as an electrician. In John s spare time, one would find him with family and friends, whether it was walking his dogs, hiking in the mountains, at his cabin or laughing and enjoying life to its fullest. John was a member of the American Legion Club, Post 217 in Cusick. John was a good friend and neighbor to all he knew. John was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Riedl Darrow; and his stepmother, Elna Eshom Darrow. John is survived by the love of his life and soul mate of 11 years, Rose Murphy, and her three daughters and grandkids of Washington; his father, George Darrow, of Bigfork; his sister, Karen Darrow, of Whitefish; and brothers, Roy Darrow and wife, Jeanne, with their two daughters, of Powell, Wyo., and Reed Darrow and wife, Cathie, with their five children of Kalispell. John, we will always miss your huge smile and broad shoulders! Love you, dear, son, brother and uncle! Sherman-Knapp Funeral Home and Crematory will be caring for the family. John s ashes will be scattered at a later date, at his beloved Kersey Lake, out of Cooke City. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at sherman-knapp.com.

Luther Luke Lalum, 88

Luke Lalum, 88, a resident of Kalispell for the past 73 years, died Friday, April 9, 2010, at Brendan House, peacefully surrounded by his family. Luke was born May 7, 1921, on the family farm, in Maddock, N.D., to Esther and Sigurd Lalum. He was the youngest of six children. Luke was loved, and will be missed by all who knew him and had the privilege of calling him husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and teacher. Luke s father died in 1937, when he was 16. At that time his mother and family moved to the Flathead Valley. Luke graduated from Flathead County High School in 1941, and was a member of the Flathead FFA, Flathead s first State Championship football team, concert choir, and a member of the Army National Guard. In 1941, he briefly attended the University of Montana until he enlisted in the Air Force on Jan. 8, 1942. During World War II, he was a member of the 447th Bombardment Squadron, where he was the flight engineer and tail gunner on a B-25, in North Africa, Italy, Greece, Tunisia and the Balkans. He completed his 50 missions in October 1943, and was awarded the Purple Heart, Good Conduct medal, four Bronze Stars, eight Air Medals with Oak Leaf Clusters and a Distinguished Unit Citation. Luke returned to the United States and enrolled at Montana State College with a football scholarship, and majored in agricultural education, graduating in 1950. He met Marilyn Moorhouse while teaching in Fairview, and they were married in 1951. They came to Kalispell in 1952, where he taught vocational agriculture until his retirement in 1981. He was a dedicated teacher whose students were an important part of his life. While teaching, he was elected national president of the Agriculture Teachers Association, a member of the Evergreen Lions, Evergreen School board, Parish Council of Risen Christ, and was president of the Montana Vocational Association. Luke designed the current H.E. Robinson Vo-Ag Center. During his years as a teacher of vocational agriculture, he was part of developing one of the premier Ag programs in the country. Luke retired from teaching in 1981 and worked for the Flathead Conservation District for six years. During retirement he enjoyed his family, friends, golfing, wood carving, bridge, camping, fishing, and winters in Palm Springs. Luke is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marilyn; daughter, Mary Lynn Baker, of Deer Park, Wash.; son, Mark Lalum, and wife, Wendy, of Kalispell; grandchildren, Trevor Baker, and wife, Jaidean, of Spokane, Jennifer Rasmussen, and husband, Logun, of Deer Park, Wash., Ashley and Ryan Lalum, of Kalispell; great-grandchildren, Teagun and Emery Baker, of Spokane; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Luke was preceded in death by his parents, Sigurd and Esther; sisters, Eldora Kinyon and Leona Kinyon; and brothers, Palmer, Sig and Ray. The family wishes to thank the staff at Brendan House for their exceptional care of Dad. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 17, at Risen Christ Catholic Church in Evergreen. Rosary service will be at 7 p.m. Friday at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Open casket visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Burial will be at Glacier Memorial Gardens. To send condolences to the family please go to www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family. The family request memorials be made to the Flathead FFA, 644 Fourth Ave. W., Kalispell, MT 59901.

Stephen John Franklin, 74

Stephen John Franklin, 74, passed away Saturday, April 10, 2010, at Northwest Health Center in Kalispell. He was born Oct. 6, 1935, in Minneapolis, to Magdelan (Cadwell) and George Franklin, and was the second of three sons. He was raised around Anoka and Onamia, Minn., and graduated from Onamia High School in 1953, with his skills on the basketball court being well remembered. Stephen served in the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1960, and honorably discharged at the rank of staff sergeant. Steve met and married Grace Bunny Siebenaler in Onamia in 1961, and in February 1962 moved to California. He joined the Oxnard Police Department in April 1962, retiring as a sergeant in April 1987. He was well respected on the job. His enjoyments included playing baseball, pitching slo-pitch softball with the police department team for 17 years, easily outrunning many of the younger team members. He coached Little League for both his son s and daughters teams. He spent much time with family. Other interests include square dancing, hunting, gardening, genealogy and his favorite companion, Cocoa. In 1983, on a trip returning from Minnesota, he took the time to see Northwest Montana, and knew the Big Sky Country was where he wanted to retire with his wife, ready to get back to the small town life. Eureka, he found it! Upon retirement and the move, he accomplished his goal of building his log home nestled in the trees with a view to die for. Besides the beauty of this area, he loved the community, the friendliness and giving of the people " Eureka s greatest asset. It didn t take long to fit in. He worked part time for the Eureka Police Department for five years, and worked as a volunteer dispatcher, joined Search and Rescue, and was a member of the American Legion Post 74. He served two terms as Eureka city judge until July 2006, and was an active member of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by both parents; brothers, Gerald and James; and a nephew, Michael. He is survived by his wife, Bunny, of 48 years; son, Sean, and Sonja, of Eureka; daughters, Shannon of Billings, and Colleen Cody and Craig of Ojai, Calif.; nephew, Ron Weltzen, and Connie, of Arizona; grandchildren, Christine, Matthew and Autumn Franklin, James and John Cody, Karl Hellwig, and Kyle and Christine Peltier. Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Friday, April 16, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, Eureka. Arrangements are provided by Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Schnackenberg and Nelson Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to Eureka Ambulance Service or Hospice of Kalispell.

Robert G. Bob Meerkatz, 75

Robert G. Bob Meerkatz, 75, passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, surrounded by his loving family, at home in Kalispell. He was born in Polk, Neb., on Aug.16, 1934, to G.A. and Perry (Stibor) Meerkatz. The family moved to Boise, Idaho, where Bob attended grade school. He moved to Rawlins, Wyo., in 1948 as a freshman, graduating in 1952. Bob married Frances Hatch on June 3, 1954, and they later had three children, Robin, Jerry and Jeff. Bob worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and Sinclair Refinery until 1958, when he enrolled in Court Reporting School in Minneapolis. Graduating in 1960, he began working in Kalispell as a court reporter for the 11th Judicial District. He truly loved his interesting job while working with Judge Frank Haswell and Judge Robert Sykes, and retired in 1993, after 32 years. He and his partner Bob Nieboer owned Meerkatz and Nieboer Reporting Service until 1997. In retirement, Bob continued to enjoy his hobby of collecting and restoring antique automobiles. He was very active in the Flathead Pioneer Auto Club and also belonged to the Glacier Street Rod Club. He cherished family gatherings the most, but also enjoyed camping, golfing, hunting, fishing and reading. Always a gregarious man, he enjoyed laughter with his family and friends to the fullest. In his words, Remember the good times, for there were many. Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Perry, in 1994; and his father, G.A., in 2006. He is survived by his loving wife, Frances; daughter, Robin Panza and husband, Frank; son, Jerry Meerkatz, and wife, Tori; and their children, Sarah and Jake; and son, Jeff Meerkatz and wife, Tracy, and their children, Casey and Michael; brother-in-law, Larry, and his wife, Tudy, and their families; and brother-in-law, David, and his wife, Sue Ann, and their family. Friends are invited to a celebration of life for Bob from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 17, at the home of Jerry and Tori Meerkatz, 392 3rd Ave. E.N., Kalispell. Separately, there will be a private urn burial at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Montana, 1629 Ave. D., Billings, MT 59102. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Bob s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Bob s tribute wall.

Lula Margaret Lukenbill, 80

Lula Margaret Lukenbill, 80, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, April 12, 2010, at the Brendan House in Kalispell. She was born on Oct. 15, 1929, in Kalispell. Lu, as she was affectionately known, was a life-long resident of Kalispell and a member of the First Church of the Nazarene. She attended school in Kalispell, until she left to attend college at Berean Bible College in Calgary, Alberta. Lu was never blessed with children of her own, but was a second mother to her many nieces and nephews and children in the nursery and Sunday school at church. She provided spiritual guidance to many individuals who crossed her path, making sure all had an opportunity to know her Lord. Lu worked as a nurse s aide during her life, an occupation in which she could provide comfort to many. The family feels that when Lu got to heaven she said her favorite saying, How bout that. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Nora Lukenbill; a brother, Frank Lukenbill; and two sisters, Edna Rexford and Thelma Rales. Left to mourn her passing are her twin sister, Lena Rogers, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; her sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Don Lyght; brother-in-law, Robert Rales; and numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, April 14, at the First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Ed Kotesky officiating. Burial will follow at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Lu s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Lu s tribute wall.

Weather disrupts sports schedule

High school spring sports took a backseat to winter-like weather on Tuesday as a track meet, several softball games and a crosstown tennis match were all postponed.

Dozens of youths cited for drinking

Dozens of underage drinkers received citations during three parties busted in Whitefish and Kalispell last weekend.

Daybook

Moving Experience

W. Valley seeks $3.5 million bond

Trustees trim $1 million off expansion plan

The way school board trustees see it, West Valley School District is between the proverbial rock and hard place.

A tale of road rage, pepper spray, and a car chase

After being stung by pepper spray, a man chased a Cadillac through Kalispell in his wine-colored Chevy around 1 p.m. Tuesday, before calling Kalispell Police when the vehicle finally pulled over. The spraying apparently resulted from a road-rage incident when the two were cutting each other off and flipping each other off. When the victim approached the other man’s vehicle, the man apparently pepper-sprayed him, then took off and a chase ensued. Officers are investigating.

Insurance costs stay steady in C.F. school district

No, employees in the Columbia Falls School District aren’t exceptionally healthy.

Insurance agent loses license over unpaid taxes

The license of a Kalispell insurance agent has been suspended because he owes the state more than $65,000 in taxes.

Wright 5th in 1st decathlon

Libby native Seth Wright not only survived his first career decathlon, he shined in it.

Body found along park trail

A hiker found the body of a man along a hiking trail in Lone Pine State Park on Monday afternoon.

Do shrinking glaciers in Glacier Park justify increased federal control of greenhouse gas emission through "cap and trade," CO2 restrictions, or other programs?

Noel Gorton profile

Jack Wilson Muir, 93

Jack Wilson Muir, 93, of Butte, died on Saturday, April 10, 2010, at home with his wife of 70 years, Irene, at his side. He was born in Great Falls on Feb. 8, 1917, to Scottish immigrants, John and Mary Muir. He was proud of his Scottish heritage. Jack was an avid supporter of the Boy Scouts, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended local schools where he met his future wife, Irene Janetski. Both members of the Great Falls High School Band, they graduated in 1935. He attended the University of Montana and after three years transferred to the University of Oregon, where he graduated with a degree in accounting. After graduating from college, he attended the Thomas J. Watson School in Endicott, N.Y., which taught young executives to change old accounting systems into the new computer systems. He then went to work for the Anaconda Company in Great Falls as an accountant. On Dec. 7, 1940, he married his sweetheart, Irene. ACM then transferred him to their mine in Chuquicamata, Chile, where he set up their accounting system. Irene gave birth to their first daughter, Linda, in Chile. They lived there for five years. They returned to Great Falls where their two sons, Jack Jr., and Daniel, and daughter, Maryanne, were born. Jack continued to work for the ACM and was subsequently transferred to Butte in 1968, where he was a data processing supervisor. He retired from the company in 1979 after 40 years of service. Jack was a lifetime golfer, winning several tournaments over the years. He had many golfing friends and golfed into his late 80s. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Hugh. Jack is survived by his loving wife, Irene; his brother, Bob, and wife, Barbara, of Billings; daughter, Linda Coolidge, and Del, of Whitefish; son, Jack Jr., and wife, Sydney, of Lakeside; son, Daniel, and wife, Coreena, of Kalispell; and daughter, Maryanne, of New Jersey. Other survivors include six grandchildren, Brian Oelberg, Laura Wilson and family, Jennifer Muir Braunstein, Jeremy Muir and family, Justin Muir and family, and Jason Muir; five stepgrandchildren, Cody Bras, Lea Coolidge Gabriel, Evan Coolidge, Melanie and Melissa Taylor, nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Jack was much loved by his children and grandchildren for his ready wit and keen sense of humor. They enjoyed his funny songs and stories. Cremation has taken place in Butte. Liturgy of the Resurrection will be celebrated for Jack at 11 a.m. Friday, April 16, at St. Ann's Catholic Church. Interment will take place in Great Falls at a later date.

Scaled-down housing plan goes to board

A revised proposal for Willow Creek, a 463-lot subdivision proposed on Foy’s Lake Road near the U.S. 93 bypass, is up for discussion at tonight’s Kalispell Planning Board meeting.

Bob Brown believes unrest may be linked to Russia

It has been almost 15 years since Bob Brown visited Kyrgyzstan, but he sees a possible common thread between the political climate in the 1990s and the country’s current unrest: Russia.

One man survives drop into river

POLSON — Two Missoula men were killed and a third man injured when their vehicle drove over a cliff into the Flathead River early Saturday.

Paramedics testify about burned boy

The trial of Juan Miguel Vasquez resumed Monday with testimony from those who first responded to the Whitefish trailer home where a 5-year-old boy was severely burned by scalding water in a bathtub.

Woman in Kyrgyzstan

Kalispell woman has front-row view of Kyrgyzstan revolution

Ann Piersall is learning how quickly plans can change.

Man not happy to see wife's family

A man called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office Sunday to report that his wife’s family was at his house on Lindsay Lane in Bigfork and he wanted them to leave. A deputy counseled the group.

Daybook

Today

Planning director given extension

Flathead County Planning Director Jeff Harris will stay on the job through the end of September, but then will be out of a job.

Glacier vs. Bigfork Women's Tennis

Glacer vs. Bigfork Men's Tennis

photo badge 250

Connector road map

Daybook

Today

Law enforcement roundup

Flathead County sheriff’s deputies arrested a 22-year-old man for criminal endangerment after he allegedly used diesel fuel to soak the area around a fifth-wheel trailer parked on his residence’s property on Somers Road. The person living in that trailer reportedly is a smoker. Deputies also arrested his 20-year-old friend on outstanding warrants.

Connector road may be built this year

A connector road between the new Walmart Supercenter and West Reserve Drive could go to bid as early as this summer.

Quilter Nancy Collard

Woman's quilts show passion, obsession

Don’t refer to quilting as a hobby around Nancy Collard, the featured quilter at the April 17 Teakettle Quilters show.

James Matthew Powers, 21

James was born in Woodland, Calif., on March 12, 1989, to Sherri Quinn-Powers and went home to be with our Lord over the Easter weekend of 2010. James lived in Spokane and then moved with his step-father, Steve Schibig; sister, Caitlin; and brothers, Aaron and Tyler, to Yakima, Wash. In 1996, James and his siblings welcomed a new step-father, James Tripp, into the family. As a result of the union of this marriage, James siblings, Emily, John, and Sara Tripp were born. The family moved to Minnesota in 1999, where James attended middle school. In 2005, the family decided to move closer to family and settled in Whitefish. James attended high school there from 2005 to 2008. James began working at Wendy s in Whitefish, where he was always known for his huge smile, kindness, and his respect and courtesy for others. He worked for a while at the Red Caboose, and for the last year and a half at McDonald s in Whitefish. Those who knew James remember his love for his Audi car, his clothes and his music. James made friends easily and showed his strength, optimism and promise, while continuing to develop into a fine young man. James proudest accomplishment was earning his high school diploma in June of 2009. We remember fondly the young man who dedicated his young life to working with and serving others. James absence has left cloudy and dark skies for many, as he has been the sunshine for all of us. He is survived by his parents, James and Sherri Tripp; step-father, Steve Schibig; six siblings, Caitlin, Aaron, Tyler, Emily, John and Sara; maternal grandparents, Sharon Powers and Carl R. Lindmark and Timothy P. Quinn; paternal grandparents, Linda Dennis, Carl Schibig and Joanne Schibig; maternal aunt, Maryam Powers; maternal uncle, John Powers; paternal aunts, Carry Dennis and Cassy Tripp; paternal uncles, Terry and Heather Dennis; and from step-father Steve Schibig s family, uncle, Ed Schibig; and Aunt, Penny Zimmerman. Other survivors include numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Family members predeceasing James include uncle, James Powers; paternal grandfather, Gordon Tripp; maternal great-grandparents, Alice M. Powers and Dewey B. Brookshire; paternal great-grandparents, William and Zita Quinn; and several uncles and cousins from his extended family. Additionally, his family at McDonald s, the Red Caboose and Wendy s mourn his loss deeply. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, April 12, 2010, at the Austin Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation and viewing will begin at 9 a.m. Monday until services begin. A celebration of life will follow at the Golden Agers Senior Center in Whitefish. The family wishes to thank all who have been instrumental in assisting the family including the Hume/Dyck Family, Whitefish Foursquare Church, Whitefish Independent School, Zach Dugdale, Deb House, McDonald s of Whitefish, and many others. Thank you to everyone for your prayers and condolences.

Bonnie Ruth Brown Wallem, 69

Our mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Bonnie Ruth Brown Wallem, passed away from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Thursday April 8, 2010. She was born to Esther (Svennungsen) and Don L. Brown in Fort Benton March 17, 1941. Bonnie was baptized by her maternal grandfather, the Rev. David Svennungsen, at Christ Lutheran Church in Big Sandy. In life Bonnie was involved in serving many facets of Montana State government. She served as the first woman Sergeant-at-arms for the Montana House of Representatives; first woman Secretary of the Montana Senate; and served as an employee in the Office of the Secretary of State. Bonnie was a staunch advocate and visionary for criminal justice reform and provided her knowledge to the Youth Justice Council, 2005 to 2007; Public Safety Officer Standards and Training Council, 2007 to the present; and the Montana Board of Crime Control, 2005 to the present. Bonnie was passionate about making Kalispell a safe place for all citizens and was a strong supporter of all law enforcement. As such, she was instrumental in starting the Volunteers in Police Services for the Kalispell Police Department. She researched how to implement a volunteer program in a police department. Bonnie wrote and developed volunteer policies and procedures, along with the application packet and training manual for volunteers. She and then-Chief of Police, Frank Garner, started the first V.I.P.S. program in the K.P.D. Bonnie helped hire and train the first seven V.I.P.S. for the K.P.D. This program has saved over 3,900 personnel hours and has helped make the streets of Kalispell safer. Bonnie was also very active in the Police Advisory Council. Bonnie helped the P.A.C. organize a town hall meeting on the dangers of Meth, attended by over 500 Flathead County citizens, that raised awareness of the Meth problem in Flathead County. Her energy, especially regarding criminal justice, will be missed by all. Bonnie is healthy and happy now in the arms of her loved ones who passed before her. The family would like to thank Home Options for their loving care of Bonnie. She was preceded in death by her two infant children, Celeste and Luther Wallem; and her mother and father, Esther D. and Don L. Brown. Bonnie is survived by her husband, Jerry R. Wallem; daughter, Leslie Jo Wallem; granddaughter, Victoria Esther; grandson, Alexander Gerald, of Kalispell; brother, Scott and Nedra Brown, of Helena; sisters, Marsha and Daryl Paulson and Judy and Jim McKenna, all of Bozeman. Memorial services are pending. Memorials and condolences may be sent to 206 Rosewood Dr., Kalispell, MT 59901. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Bonnie s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Bonnie s tribute wall.

Thomas R. Flynn, 96

Thomas R. Flynn, 96, passed away on Saturday, April 3, 2010. He was born Oct. 3, 1913, in Kalispell to Thomas Andrew and Magdelean (Johnson) Flynn. He attended Kalispell schools, graduating from Flathead County High School in the Class of 1930. He later received a degree in accounting from LaSalle University. Tom married Helen Horntvedt in 1932. Together they raised four children. Tom and Helen were founding members of Central Bible Church. Flynn Lumber Company donated much of the lumber for construction of the church. Tom s work experience spanned over 75 years. His jobs and business all relied upon his accounting expertise and pragmatic business savvy. He was employed by Kalispell Mercantile Company, Montgomery Ward and Flathead Commercial, where he was office manager. When Flathead Commercial was sold to Buttrey s in 1946, he started Kalispell Accounting Service. He added lumber sales in 1947 and incorporated Flynn Lumber Company in 1955. He was elected mayor of Kalispell in 1961, and served through May of 1967. Subsequently, Tom became utility auditor for the city of Whitefish for 12 years. He then conducted a municipal rate consulting business, setting water and sewer rates for cities in the area. He also was a consultant on oil royalty ownership for the past 20 years. Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, in 2005. He is survived by his four children, Donna Nygren and husband, Les, of Spokane, Joanne Dykes and husband, Leonard, of Kalispell, Lorence Flynn of Kalispell, David Flynn and wife, Carolyn, of Boise, Idaho. He was a grandpa to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Tom was a thoughtful man whose considered opinion was sought out and valued by many. He loved God. He loved his family. He loved his country with a special love for Montana and the Flathead Valley where he lived out all of his 96 years. Services for Thomas R. Flynn will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 17, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Memorials may be given in Tom s name to the charity of your choice.

United Way caps fundraising campaign

The United Way has concluded its 2009 fund-raising campaign, according to Executive Director Sherry Stevens Wulf.

Abuse victims find threads of hope at local consignment shops

After almost two decades of abuse, she made up her mind.

Store survives on book smarts

In the movie “You’ve Got Mail,” Tom Hanks tells Meg Ryan’s character to “go to the mattresses” as she tries to keep her family-owned bookstore alive under the pressure of the Goliath Fox Books.

Assailant flees in purple vehicle

A punch to the face left a man unconscious at a bar on Second Street East around 12:30 a.m. Saturday. His unknown assailant fled in a purple Chevy Blazer northbound on Main Street, according to

Daybook

Tuesday-night meeting considers lake proposal

One of three Western Montana meetings on netting lake trout from Flathead Lake will be Tuesday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel Kalispell.

Columbia Falls, Polson win track honors

COLUMBIA FALLS - For one day at least, the weather didn't get in the way of a good track meet.

County streamlines road maintenance network

Some roads may no longer receive county services

Proposed belt-tightening in the Flathead County Road Department includes eliminating all maintenance and snow removal on portions of 21 county roads.

Homer lifts CMR over Glacier

Wolfpack start day with a 5-4 triumph over Great Falls High

It came down to one battle.

Are Griz facing a 'bear trap'?

University of Montana athletics, particularly the immensely popular Grizzly football program, is heading for crossroads of profound importance — a decision on whether or not to move into the upper-tier Football Bowl Subdivision.

Swing on by

Avid dancers hope to create a serious swing scene in Kalispell

t’s Friday night in downtown Kalispell and in the alley behind the Kalispell Grand Hotel three girls search for what has come to be known as the Sassafras Ballroom.

Rehberg: Health reform doesn't get at problem's root

Montanans are in a foul mood over federal health care legislation and a lack of attention toward economic recovery, the state’s lone congressman said during a stop in Kalispell Saturday.

Tom Harkin - Healthcare is an Inalienable Right

Phil Hare doesn't care.

Hank Johnson (Congress D-GA) - Warns Guam May Capsize

Week In Pictures April 5 - 11

US 93 and Reserve Drive Proposed By-pass

Glacier vs. Great Falls

44th annual Creston Auction

Austin Thomas Hoff

son of Dylon Hoff and Haily Meeker of Whitefish, was born March 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Taylor Sierra Hancock

daughter of Donald L. Hancock and Corina M. Wickwire of Whitefish, was born March 31 at North Valley Hospital.

Sophia Lee Vickrey,16

Sophia Lee Vickrey,16, of Driggs, Idaho, and formerly of Kalispell, left to continue her journey with God on a higher level on Monday, April 5, 2010. Sophia was born June 9, 1993, in Sacramento, Calif., to Terry and Brandy Vickrey. She attended Teton High School where she was an amazing athlete, friend, and most of all, an incredible daughter and sister. She is survived by her parents; siblings, Logan and Sierra Vickrey; great-grandmother, Betty Jo Gray; grandparents, Judith and Gary McDonough, Mike Todd, and Larry and Sandy Vickrey; aunts, uncles and cousins; and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Annie Keithley. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution has been set up at the Wells Fargo Bank in Sophia s name. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today, April 10, at the Driggs Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a visitation prior to the funeral at the church from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The family would like to express their immense gratitude for all the love and support they have received from family, friends and community. Condolences can be sent to the family at valleymortuarydriggs.com.

Wyatt Alan Ruonavaara

son of Jono and Ashley Ruonavaara of Kalispell, was born March 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Tyler Mason Fisher

son of Frank and Kacey Fisher of Kalispell, was born March 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Rhileigh Jo Marsh

daughter of Corey Woods and Jen Marsh of Kalispell, was born March 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Eileen Anne Kane, 81

Eileen Anne Kane, 81, a resident of Whitefish for the past 37 years, died Wednesday, April 7, 2010, at North Valley Hospital. Eileen was born in New York City on Dec. 17, 1928, the daughter of James and Ellen McNamara and was raised and educated there. She later married James Thomas Kane. In the 1960s, she and her husband owned and operated a Shell gas station in the Bronx. In 1972, after 11 years, the family moved to Montana, coming first to Bozeman. They came to Whitefish in May of 1973 where they purchased Frenchy s Chinese Gardens which they operated until it burned to the ground in 1974. In 1975, they built the Shangri-La Supper Club, and in 1989 started and operated the Par 3 on 93. They continued to operate the golf course aspect of that business until retiring in 2005. Eileen s husband preceded her in death, in 2006. She had been a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Whitefish and enjoyed participating in various church activities. Eileen was also noted as an excellent cook and found great enjoyment in handcrafts, most especially crocheting. Eileen is survived by her children, Brian Kane of Whitefish, Deirdre Kane of Kalispell, and James Kane of South Bridge, Mass.; her sister, Theresa Schneider, of San Diego; and her grandchildren, Maureen, Sean, Thomas, James, Austin and Kayden. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, April 12, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Whitefish. Parish vigil and rosary services will be at 7 p.m. this evening, April 11, at the Austin Funeral Home. Interment services will be later next week at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne, N.Y.

Samuel David Elgin

son of Russell and Jacklyn Elgin of Kalispell, was born March 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Aurora Ann Gilham

daughter of Cliff and Christi Gilham of Columbia Falls, was born March 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Shelbi Lynn Chappell

daughter of Cory Chappell and Tiffiny Marie James of Kalispell, was born March 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Everett Oslo Gardner

son of Keith and Lindsey Gardner of Whitefish, was born March 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Samantha Joann Kaufman

daughter of Bryan and Angie Kaufman of Eureka, was born March 26 at North Valley Hospital.

No deal yet for North Shore purchase

County files consent degree in settlement

Prospective buyers for the North Shore Ranch property near Somers failed to meet a 30-day extension included in a lawsuit settlement, but a deal still could be in the works.

Pirates pull away from Dogs

WHITEFISH — It looked like an upset might be in the brewing.

Flathead home sales rebound

Flathead County has seen a rebound in housing sales this year, but whether that momentum will be sustained may depend on government incentives and interest rates in the coming months.

Daybook

Symposium traces Glacier Park history

A two-day symposium in Kalispell will look at Glacier Park’s history over the past 100 years.

Suspect's escape foiled by snow

After officers spotted him urinating on trees, a 22-year-old man took off running Thursday night. His tracks through the newly-fallen snow foiled his escape.

'He put my head under water,' boy recalls

Witnesses for the prosecution testified Friday during the trial of a Whitefish man accused of forcing his then-girlfriend’s 5-year-old child into a bathtub full of scalding water, severely burning the boy.

Easthaven Baptist contingent heads for Haiti to work with youngsters

When disaster struck Haiti in January, Easthaven Baptist Church turned its eyes south, watching and waiting for opportunities to help earthquake survivors.

Whitefish vs. Polson Softball Throw to First

Whitefish vs. Polson Softball

Window Wonders

Bookworks of Whitefish

Kettle Care

Swing Dance at the Sassafras

Therese Anna Marie Drent, 84

Therese Anna Marie Drent, 84, passed away on Monday, April 5, 2010, at her home in Kalispell. She was born on April 16, 1925, in Zevenbergen, Holland, to Jacobus and Adriana (deRond) VanAken. Therese married Pieter Drent on April 9, 1949, and immigrated to America, arriving on the Queen Elizabeth cruise liner. From New York, they moved to Whitefish, and worked at the VanAken Gardens. Therese devoted her time to raising five children. In 1963, they purchased the Holland Nursery in Evergreen, and in 1968, purchased and operated Flowers By Hansen. Therese ran the flower shop for 22 years before retiring. During that time she was proud to have served as the president of the Montana Florist Association. Therese enjoyed gardening, reading and many different needle crafts. She was also a longtime member of St. Matthew s Catholic Church. Therese was preceded in death by her husband. She is survived by her four daughters, Jane Patterson and husband, Bruce, of Polson, Marilyn Brady and husband, Dick, of Kalispell, Wilma Drent of New Orleans, and Renee Funk and husband, Robin, of Kalispell; one son, Steven Drent, of Kalispell; 14 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Graveside services for Therese will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 10, at Glacier Memorial Gardens, with Father Vic Langhans of St. Matthew s Catholic Church officiating. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Therese s family. Friends and family are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Therese s tribute wall and offer condolences.

Janis Lee Vasecka, 78

Janis Lee Vasecka, 78, died April 7, 2010, of complications due to a stroke she had suffered several years earlier. She was born in Melrose Park, Ill., to Helen and Harvey Munsterman. In 1951, while serving in the Women s Air Force, she met and married Edward G. Vasecka Jr., at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. They spent the next 27 years traveling around the U.S. and overseas while Ed continued in his career in the Air Force. In 1964 they were stationed in Havre and from then on they called Montana their home. Upon retirement, Ed and Jan bought a house in West Glacier and lived there happily until their health began to fail, and they moved to the Waterford in Helena to be closer to their children in December of 2009. Janis was not only a homemaker and a supportive and proud military wife, but a volunteer with the Red Cross, the Girl Scouts and eventually a volunteer in the park (VIP) at her beloved Glacier National Park. Janis is survived by her husband of almost 60 years, Ed; a brother, John, in Florida; and four children, Terri Brooks and Adam of Clancy, Vicki Kulbeck and Glen of Big Sandy, Scott Vasecka of Havre, and Linnea Vasecka of Butte. She has six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister, Lois Landwehr; and her parents. A family memorial is scheduled for 3 p.m., Saturday, April 10, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.

Two teens mistaken for burglars

The teens in a surveillance photo that ran in last Saturday’s Inter Lake “are not the guys we’re looking for,” according to Detective Scott Warnell of the

First stretch of road open to bikers, hikers

Camas Road plowed but there are still icy stretches along route

Portions of Glacier National Park roads are beginning to open up, according to a weekly road report from the park.

Daybook

Successful slugfest

Wrestling fundraiser sells out, exceeds expectations

The crosstown rivalry between Flathead and Glacier reached the boxing ring on Thursday in the first-ever smoker between the two Kalispell schools.

April Wind Damage

Will state take role in lawsuits?

Montana’s Republican legislators claim they are speaking for most of the state’s citizens in pressing for a legal challenge of federal health-care legislation recently signed into law.

Windstorm sweeps through the valley

A blustery spring storm muscled its way into the Flathead Valley Thursday, whipping the area with 50 mph wind gusts, toppling trees, cutting power lines and sending a carport tumbling into a neighbor’s yard.

Trial begins for man accused of burning child

Defendant also accused of drug-related crime

Opening statements during the trial of a Whitefish man told very different stories of how a child sustained severe burns from scalding bath water.

Planning director supporters rally

Supporters of Flathead County Planning Director Jeff Harris pleaded with the county commissioners on Thursday to renew the contract for a planning director they say has been a skilled leader in land-use planning.

First Annual Crosstown Boxing Smoker Punches Exchanged

First Annual Crosstown Boxing Smoker

Juan Miguel Vasquez

Wind Damage at Aaron's Appliance

Downtown Whitefish reconstruction

W. Valley looks at $4.5 million expansion

Growth has been the prevailing theme at West Valley School over the last two decades.

Daybook

Czech Treats

Watching the money flow

We were glad to see Gov. Brian Schweitzer release several million dollars in stimulus grants for projects around the state, including several in the Flathead Valley, but there’s no reason to celebrate.

Costumed knife-wielder at large

An unknown person wearing a Scream costume ran when a man approached around 11 p.m. Tuesday. The subject, clothed in a black robe and white mask, was also apparently carrying a knife with a six- or seven-inch blade, though whether or not it was also simply part of a costume was unknown. Although

Glaciers continuing to shrink

New report links climate to Montana’s economy

Two environmental groups have issued a new report drawing attention to the effects of climate change on Glacier National Park, particularly the ongoing recession of the park’s alpine glaciers.

Shoplifting principal resigns job

A school principal who stole from a Kalispell grocery store has resigned.

Young Whitefish man found in river

The man found dead in the Whitefish River on Tuesday has been identified.

Raising a New Roof

Barbara J. (Motichka) Penney, 76

Barbara J. (Motichka) Penney, 76, of Kalispell, passed away Thursday, April 1, 2010, at the Brendan House in Kalispell, with family at her side. She was born in Kalispell on April 10, 1933, to Joseph James Motichka and Mary Elizabeth (Feirstein) Motichka, both pioneer families of the Flathead Valley. She was the sixth of seven children. Barbara attended the Half Moon School near the family homestead and Flathead County High School. She married Jay S. Penney on Aug. 6, 1951. Together they operated the Fish and Game South Fork station during hunting season and operated the family farm on Hodgson Road, raising five children, until they retired in May 1992. They moved to Kalispell where she lived for the remainder of her life. Barbara spent the final years of her life in the loving care of family and Brendan House staff. Barbara was a devoted, loving and caring wife and mother and extremely proud grandmother. Barbara was quiet and reserved with a gentle sense of humor and infectious smile. In her youth, she was an active member of the Farmer s Union Reserve, Future Homemakers of America and 4-H. Barbara loved Sunday drives, feeding the ducks in Woodland Park, family picnics and gatherings, and fishing trips. In her spare time when she wasn t caring for her family, she enjoyed embroidery and jigsaw puzzles, playing pinochle, canasta and bingo. In the summer she enjoyed swimming at the eddy at the Whitefish River, huckleberry picking, raising and harvesting the family garden, canning fruits and vegetables for her family, and cotton candy at the Flathead County Fair. She loved smoking sockeye salmon for family and friends in the fall. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing meals for the grain and tree harvest crews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jay, in April 1994; and by her parents, Joseph and Mary Motichka; two brothers, Richard and Joseph; and one sister, Mary (Betty) Fredenberg. Barbara is survived by two sisters, Roberta Elgin and Katherine Hatton, and one brother, Jim Motichka, and wife Alice, all of Kalispell. She is also survived by her children, son, Bruce, and wife, Shirley, of Beaverton, Ore.; daughter, Ardith Tillotson, and husband, Bart, of Oak Harbor, Wash.; son, Gerald, and wife, Shannon, of Columbia Falls; son, Kurt, and wife, Barbara, of Kalispell; and her son, Tom, of Columbia Falls. Barbara is also survived by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Grandchildren include Jeremy, Jordan, Troy, Jennifer, David, Sean and Drew; and her great-grandchildren, Kiyha and Gage; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. Funeral services for Barbara will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 10, at the Stillwater Lutheran Church with Pastor Tim Bartholomew officiating. Visitation will be from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 8, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Interment will be in Glacier Memorial Gardens. A reception for friends and family to celebrate Barbara s life will be held at the Stillwater Lutheran Church following the services. The family suggests memorials in Barbara s name be to the American Heart Association, 501 First Ave. North No. 114, Great Falls, MT 59401; or the Arthritis Foundation, Montana Branch, 1643 Lewis Ave., Suite 3, Billings, MT 59102-4151; or the charity of your choice. Johnson - Gloschat Funeral is caring for Barbara s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Barbara s tribute wall.

Ida A. Landon, 90

Ida A. Landon, 90, died Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish. She was born Sept. 30, 1919, at Watford City, N.D., the seventh of eight children born to Odin and Bertha Berntson. She was raised on a potato farm and worked in a dairy as well. She married Charles S. Vance in 1937. They later moved to Whitefish with their three children, Darlene, Johnny and Darryl, in 1945. While expecting her daughter, Jeanne, in 1947, her oldest boy Johnny drowned in the Whitefish River, initiating the Search and Rescue Association of Flathead Valley, led by Dick Walsh. Her husband, Charles, also preceded her in death, in 1956. Ida worked in various jobs in Whitefish before moving to Seattle in 1961, to become a successful realtor. She resided there until returning to Whitefish to retire in 1987. She spent her final years being lovingly cared for by the staff at Colonial Manor. She is survived by her children, Darlene Schmidt and husband, Raymond, of Columbia Falls, Darryl Vance and wife, Reva, of Malta, and Jeanne Canfield and husband, Ken, of Whitefish; her sister, Esther Boreson, of Eureka; grandchildren, Rick, George, Terri, Jeff, Joe, Jen, Dennis, Denise and Cedar; great-grandchildren, Rachel, Jason, John, Eric, Nathan, Kelly, Ciera, Trevor, Kody, Taylor, Presley and Makenna; and great-great-grandchildren, Maclean and Schafer. Services will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of the donor s choice. Austin Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Helen F. Jones, 77

Helen F. Jones, 77, passed away April 2, 2010, in Kalispell. She was a retired school teacher. Helen is survived by her husband of 53 years, Clifford Jones, of Kalispell; and sisters, Barbara Gregory and Jean Ferris, both of Los Angeles. A celebration of Helen's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 10, at the Bigfork Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Dr. Vernon Dale Spear, 86

Dr. Vernon Dale Spear, 86, of Algona, Iowa, died on Wednesday, March 31, 2010, at the Kossuth Regional Health Center. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 8, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home in Kalispell. Interment will follow at 11 a.m. at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery with the Army National Guard and the United Veterans of the Flathead Valley doing military honors. Vernon Dale Spear, the son of Harry Johnson and Anvy Alberta (Dewell) Spear, was born on March 8, 1924, in Clarence, Iowa. He graduated from Tipton High School in 1941. In 1953, Dale graduated from Iowa State University with a doctorate in veterinary medicine, dentistry and surgery. He served as a sergeant major in the U.S. Army during World War II were he received the Bronze Star. Dale was united in marriage with Mary J. Loberg on Dec. 10, 1962, in Preston, Minn. He was a member of First Lutheran Church in Algona, Iowa, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Cossack Team ISU, Elks and the Iowa State Alumni Association. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 47 years, Mary; five children, Dlo Le Spear-Sykes of Seattle, Todd Niels Spear of Spokane, Robin Jill Spear Welter of Richmond, Calif., Alex Johnson Spear of Kalispell, and Susan Anne Klein of Albuquerque, N.M.; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Max Spear. Condolences may be left at www.lentzfuneralhome.com.

Cannabis clinic captivates Kalispell crowd

Hundreds of people on Tuesday attended the Kalispell stop of the Montana Caregivers Clinic, designed to educate about and provide resources for medical marijuana enthusiasts.

Man rescued after plunge into lake

Glacier National Park Road Snow Removal

Daybook

Alberts fans 13 in Flathead victory

WHITEFISH - It was so cold Tuesday afternoon at Smith Fields ...

Woman charged with three felonies

A Kila woman faces three felony counts against her after a gun discharged during a domestic disturbance on Easter Sunday.

School bond request rejected

Taxpayers in the Fair-Mont-Egan School District overwhelmingly rejected a $1.9 million bond request Tuesday.

Softball Whitefish vs. Flathead

Cannabis detail

Cannabis Clinic

Staining fences

Feeding the birds

Dorothy Emmett Perry, 89

Dorothy Emmett Perry, 89, passed away March 30, 2010, at her home in Whitefish. Dorothy was born Dec. 18, 1920, in the small town of Hobson, the 12th child of Harvey and Lula Belle Rogers. She grew up in Windham, attending grades one through 12. Her mother owned a hotel there and, as a child and teenager, she helped with the many responsibilities entailed in mother s business. In high school, she was active in sports, band, drama club and was the best dancer at the proms. The winner of many blue ribbons at county spelling bees, Dorothy remained a sharp speller at 89 years old. Upon high school graduation, she took a large leap and moved to the big city of Great Falls. Dorothy attended the Great Falls Beauty College to become a beautician. She met her future husband, Raymond Emmett, through a foursome date night. They were married June 3, 1939, and set up married life in a small apartment in Great Falls. She was a devoted wife and mother who, with Ray, raised two children, Carole and Jeffrey. As the children started attending school, Dorothy held a variety of secretarial jobs, working in insurance and real estate in Great Falls and frequently becoming the executive secretary to the owners. In 1961, Dorothy and Ray started building their cabin in the heart of the Belt Mountains near Great Falls. For 12 years their lives revolved around the experiences and memories with their extended family at the cabin. After living and working in Great Falls for 42 years, they moved to the Flathead Valley, where they spent their summers, and their winters in Quartzsite, Ariz. Following Ray s death in 1992, Dorothy returned to the valley permanently. Two years later, she married an old-time friend, Woodrow Perry. Together they traveled, explored and settled in St. George, Utah, where they started a new life attending college courses and making new friends. Once again, Dorothy was widowed by Woody s passing in 2007. She moved to Whitefish to live with her daughter and son-in-law. Dorothy loved to shop, not necessarily to buy, but to get new ideas and see new products. She loved to travel and was excited to go on a trip the day she passed away. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was always wanting to gain more knowledge and testimony of her beliefs. Preceded in death also by her parents and siblings, she is survived by her daughter, Carole Denning, and husband, Kay, of Whitefish; her son, Jeffrey Emmett, of Borego Springs, Calif.; stepdaughter, Pamela Olsen, and husband, Steve, of Salt Lake City, and family, Leah and Amy; grandchildren, Scott Hatfield of Columbia Falls and family, Melissa, Emily and Carrie; Shayne Hatfield and wife, Kristi, of Columbia Falls, and family, Skye, Joyce and Kate; Suzanne Haverkorn and husband, Tony, of Belgrade and family, Savanah and Kelcie; Shelly Chandler and husband, Kyle, of Cedar City, Utah, and family, Lya, Mac and Andrea; Nathan and Tina Emmett of California; Ashley and Carter Emmett of California; stepgrandchildren, Curtis, Paul, Joy, Alice, Lori, Margaret, Karoline and David; and many great- and great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 10, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Whitefish, with Bishop Joel Stevenson presiding; a luncheon will immediately follow at the church. Interment services will follow at 2 p.m. at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery in Kalispell. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to services. Arrangements are under the care of Austin Funeral Home.

Paul Sherman Gingrey, 69

Paul Sherman Gingrey, 69, passed away on March 30, 2010, in Pensacola, Fla. Paul, or Frosty, as his sisters and friends called him, was born in Billings to Paul and Grace Gingrey on Nov. 20, 1940. He later moved with his parents and two younger sisters to Kalispell, where he finished high school and went on to graduate from Carroll College in Helena. After his college education, Paul served in the Navy as Lt. j.g. Gingrey, at Pensacola NAS. After his Navy years, Paul was a professional general contractor and later became an instructor at George Stone Vocational School, where he steered his program to build Habitat for Humanity homes. There he stayed until his retirement. Paul was also a volunteer for several years with Boy Scout Troop 602, helping many young boys earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Through all of this, Paul made many lifelong friends, and always was there to help others. His teaching skills were magic. Paul enjoyed many hobbies such as rock polishing, making his own lures for his love of fly fishing, and feeding any and all of the many birds that migrated through his yard in Florida, especially hummingbirds. He fondly referred to any molting bird in his yard as buzzards as they all looked so scrawny without their feathers. Paul could build or fix anything and had every tool one could imagine. He had collected Lionel Train sets since he was a youngster, had fun with stamp collecting, had a huge collection of clocks, and was constantly working on projects around his home and yard, finishing every single one. He was a great cook and gardener, and enjoyed entertaining guests at Thanksgiving. Everybody attending went home with a loaf of fresh bread, baked by Paul. Paul also enjoyed his RV and meeting many people from around the U.S. He especially loved the Rocky Mountains and camped in some of the most remote areas he could find. Paul also researched and put together our Family Tree. Paul is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and one son, Jon Paul, and his wife, Jen, of Pensacola; his sisters, Mary Ann and Max Whitington of Kalispell, and family, and Susan and Ed Cifu of Riverside, Calif., and family; and many nieces and nephews and other relatives, along with a long list of friends. We will all miss Paul very much and will always love his memory. A celebration of Paul s life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to Covenant Hospice, 5041 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola FL 32504.

Della Mae Babcock, 88

Della Mae Babcock, 88, of Kalispell passed into eternity March 19, 2010, at the Heritage Place. She is survived by her sons and their wives, Howard and Dede Babcock of Monroe, Wash., and Bruce and Trisha Babcock of Kalispell; and daughter, Lynn Jacobsmeyer, and her husband, Wayne, of Columbia Falls. Della was blessed with nine grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Bernard Babcock, in July of 2009. Della was born and raised in Twin Bridges, where she met and married the love of her life, Bernard. In 1956, she moved with her family to Snohomish, Wash., and resided in that area for 47 years. In 2003 she and Bernard came back to their Montana roots, and spent the last seven years making many memorable memories with their family. Della s forte was being a homemaker and loving and caring for (and worrying about) her family. She was a great comfort-food cook, loved music, especially big band; her favorite flowers were roses, and she loved a good joke. A memorial celebration of Della s life for family and friends will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 9, at the North Valley Community Center in Columbia Falls. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to a local food bank; the American Cancer Society, 3550 Mullan Road, Missoula, MT 59808; or Wings, P.O. Box 7852, Kalispell, MT 59904.

Jim Keyes, 62

Jim Keyes, 62, died Thursday, March 25, 2010, at his residence in Somers. He was born Oct. 12, 1947, in Indianapolis to Bink and Laura Keyes Flora. He had lived his Montana dream for several years, and shared his love of nature with Linda Kelly, his partner and soul mate, of Indiana and Montana. Also surviving are two sons, Jason Keyes of Indiana, and Alexander Jeremiah Lowe of Eureka; daughter, Crisi Keyes, of Indiana; sister, Joanna, and husband, John Cutler; and granddaughter, Makayla Keyes, of Indiana. A celebration of his life will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. April 17 at Vista Linda Restaurant in Somers.

Leota Marie Anderson, 83

On April 1, 2010, Leota Marie Anderson passed away into the arms of the Lord. She was born on Oct. 27, 1926, in Burlington, Iowa, to Albert and Verna Sherer. She was later adopted by Bob and Verna Croskrey. She lived in various towns in Iowa as a young child, and then moved to Kalispell, where she finished through the eighth grade. Her high school years were spent in Washington, where she graduated from Leavenworth in 1946. She then worked at Puget Sound Power and Light and 1st National Bank in Wenatchee, Wash. Leota met her husband, Leonard, while vacationing in Kalispell. She dropped her hanky and he picked it up. They were married on Aug. 29, 1948, in Leavenworth, Wash. They moved to Kalispell in 1949. While in Kalispell, she worked for Consolidated Freightways. Shortly thereafter, they started their family with three daughters, Rita, Carol and Linda, and a son, Lenny. She was a homemaker for many years until going into the second-hand trade. She opened the Next to New Shop around 1974, continuing until 1987. She had a love for rummage sales and thrift stores, but her greatest passion was her family. She always said her children and grandchildren were her life and was thrilled to host many Sunday dinners, holidays, birthdays, anything that would bring everyone all together. She was truly the glue that kept our family close. This has left us with many shoe boxes of pictures and fabulous memories to cherish. As much as she cared and gave to her family, her heart also expanded to many others. She would give what she had to help others, be it a friend or a stranger, and loved giving to children. Leota was preceded in death by her parents; and adoptive parents; sisters, Opal and Betty; and a brother, Orville. She is survived by her husband, Leonard, of Kalispell; three daughters, Rita Bishop and husband, Bob, of Whitefish, Carol Frehse of Kalispell, and Linda Miller and husband, Fred, of Kalispell; a son, Lenny, and his wife, Shauna, of Lakeside; a sister, Shirley Mishler, of Iowa; grandchildren, Leslie (Bishop) Franco, Allyson (Bishop) Crawford, Justin Frehse, Brittney (Frehse) Townsend, Melissa and Jake Miller, Jarrett Sunde, and Cody and Tehya Anderson; and five great-grandchildren. Per her request, a private family graveside service will be held. Please join us in remembering our dear wife, mother, grandmother and friend with a celebration of her life to take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 10, at the Elks Lodge, located at 1820 U.S. 93 South in Kalispell. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be made to the Salvation Army, 110 Bountiful Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Lillian A. Bras, 86

Our beloved mother passed away at North Valley Hospital March 31, 2010. A family celebration of her life will be held later this summer. She was born in San Jose, Calif., Oct. 27, 1923, to Stillman and Lorraine Pfeffer. Mom grew up and attended school in Gilroy, Calif. She met John H. Bras and they married May 31, 1947. After John s service in World War II they moved to Coram, leaving briefly to complete enlistment in the Korean War. Together they raised the five luckiest children in the Flathead Valley. Lillian was an avid sports fan and played softball well into her 60s until she suffered a knee injury and couldn t play any more. She never missed a World Series and attended all her children and grandchildren s sports events. Mom loved family, the outdoors and animals; especially her horse Bud and dog Jessie. Among her hobbies was embroidery of perfection. Every child and grandchild has been given her art to enjoy for years. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; sister, Verda; brother, Albert; and daughter, Marilynn Kenfield. Lillian is survived by her children, Kathy Livingston, John Bras and Lori King, all in the Flathead, and Brian Bras of Coos Bay, Ore.; 11 grandchildren, Sej, Michael and Autumn Kenfield, Jared and Stacy Livingston, Orion Bras, Darcy and Dylan King, and Dirk, Serena and Alyssa Bras; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Adele Tustin and Louise Carlton. Mom will be remembered in so many ways, and one of our fondest was how we all know it was never allowed to leave each visit with her without honking goodbye first. We hear that horn load and clear from you, Mom! We would like to thank the Professional Center and North Valley Hospital for the excellent care. Columbia Mortuary is caring for the family.

Search launched for state's centenarians

With winter on the wane, Montana officials begin anew their search for citizens who have seen nearly one hundred springs or more.

'Stolen' Yukon was just moved

Kalispell Police got a report of a GMC Yukon being stolen Sunday, but the reporting party soon called back to say he had located the vehicle about a mile away, with no damage, and he suspects it was a practical joke.

State grant to help Whitefish school

The Whitefish School District has been awarded a $13,200 Quality Schools Planning Grant to help create conceptual designs for a proposed new high school.

Auction time back at Creston

The 44th annual Creston Auction and Country Fair is set for this weekend.

Governor to release local grant money

HELENA — Gov. Brian Schweitzer finalized about $40 million in state government budget cuts on Monday — but said he would release several million dollars in local stimulus grants that had become the focus of tense disputes with local officials.

feeding birds

Marijuana providers meet with Libby Council

LIBBY — A meeting between two medical marijuana providers and the Libby City Council did little last week to advance city ordinances to regulate the trade, but did reveal that council members are open to further dialogue and suggestions.

Daybook

Today

Laura Munson

Vendor, marijuana hearings top Whitefish agenda

The Whitefish City Council faces five public hearings at tonight’s meeting, on high-profile topics ranging from a moratorium on temporary food vendors to rate increases for garbage collection and sewer service. A continued moratorium on medical marijuana also will be considered.

Daybook

Today

Author's memoir gets national attention

Laura Munson wrote her heart out for 20 years before anyone really noticed.

Law enforcement roundup

Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies cited several people younger than 21 for being minors in possession after deputies broke up an underage drinking party on Conrad Drive Saturday night.

Kila woman arrested for attempted homicide

Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies took a Kila woman into custody for alleged attempted homicide after a Sunday afternoon incident.

Veronica Honthaas, beekeeper

Longtime beekeeper shares sweet bits of hive knowledge

The honey bee is remarkable — for its impossible aerodynamics, its intricate social order, its uncanny navigational sense.

Norman Norm Armour, 90

Norman Norm Armour, a longtime resident of the Flathead Valley, died at age 90, peacefully surrounded by his family in Vero Beach, Fla., on Monday, March 29, 2010. Norm spent the last three months of his life living with his daughter, Laurie Armour, and dear friend/caretaker, Lynda Hall, also both former residents of the Flathead Valley. Norman was a decorated Army captain during World War II and survived the first wave of the Omaha Beach Invasion in Normandy, France. He successfully founded and owned Armour Exterminating Co., in Palm Beach, Fla. He was an avid fisherman and held several world records in Bill Fish Tournaments. Norm was an avid sportsman/outdoors man. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, and polo. Upon retirement, he moved to Whitefish. He was loved by his family and will be missed by all of us. He truly exemplified leaders from The Greatest Generation and had a passion for living life to the fullest. Norm is survived by one brother, Alan Armour, and his wife, Barbara, of Delray Beach, Fla; one sister, Edna Warren, of Las Cruces, N.M.; two daughters, Laurie and Vicki Armour; two sons, Scot and Norm Armour Jr., and his wife, Salita; five grandchildren, Mark Delorme Jr., and his fiancee, Stacy Gruber, of Kalispell, Adam Armour Delorme of Breckenridge Colo., Elizabeth Delorme VandeVenter and husband, Christopher, of Charleston, S.C., and their infant son, Dax Delorme Vandeventer (Norm s one great grandchild), Tiana Armour of Chicago, and Shane Armour, who attends college in Scotland at the University of Saint Andrews. Norm will be honored with a Full Honors Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., in June. In lieu of flowers any remembrance could be made to The Boy Scouts of America at scouting.org. Norman attained Eagle Scout Level with troop 577 of Bryn Community Church, Chicago. A guestbook may be signed at www.strunkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under direction of Strunk Funeral Home in Vero Beach.

David S. Klehm, 81

David S. Klehm, 81, passed away at home on April 1, 2010. He was born June 8,1928, in Libby, to Karl A. and Mary Klehm. He was the youngest of three children. In 1949, he met and married Nan Garnett in Couer d' Alene, Idaho. They then moved to Moscow, Idaho, so he could attend Forestry School at the University of Idaho. Upon graduation from the university, Nan and Dave moved to Kalispell for a brief time before Dave enlisted in the U.S. Army, and attended Officer's Candidate School in Ft. Belvoir, Va. He graduated as a 2nd Lt. and was sent to Korea to engineer roads that were crucial to keeping American casualties as low as possible. For his service in Korea he was awarded the Bronze Star. After the Korean War, he and Nan returned to Kalispell for good. They started their family with Kari Jo in 1954, followed by Kris in 1957. Through the course of life, Dave was a member of the Montana National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve. He attained the rank of Major and retired from military service after 26 years. His primary career, however, was in forestry. Upon his return from Korea, he worked for Kalispell Lumber Company, Somers Lumber Company, Burlington Northern and finally retired as a land manager for Plum Creek Timber Company in 1984. His love of the woods was deep-seated, as his father had been Forest Supervisor for the Kootenai National Forest when he was young. David manned the Meadow Peak Lookout his 16th summer. He logged in Korea (during a war!) to acquire materials to build roads, make shelters, and maintain M.A.S.H. units. For Dave, wood truly was good . After his retirement, he and Nan traveled the western United States, and later he took up woodworking and made thousands of old-fashioned wooden toys that he took to the Farmer's Market and also donated extensively to charity. Dave had been a trombone player since fifth grade and was a member of the Flathead Community Band for 29 years, and also played in the Shriner's El Katif and German Bands for almost 20 years. Last year he donated his trombone to the Evergreen Junior High School band. He had been active in the early years of the Evergreen Lions, a member of the Masonic Lodge and Shriners, and active in the Society of American Foresters. Dave was an avid collector of any- and everything. He was always delighted to have just the right thing for the right use. Dave was preceded in death by his parents Karl A. and Mary; his brother, Karl; sister, Patricia; and his dear son, Kris, in 1982. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nan, at the family home; his daughter, Kari Klehm and husband, Mike Collins; and beloved grandson, Zachri Klehm, all of Kalispell; and many nieces and nephews, whom he cherished. The time for a memorial reception will be announced soon. Contributions in Dave's name may be made to: Shriners Hospitals for Children, P.O. Box 2472, Spokane, WA 99210-2472; or Home Options Hospice, 430 Windward Way, #101, Kalispell, MT 59901. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Dave's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Dave's tribute wall.

Harold Bud Dalen, 89

Harold Bud Dalen, 89, passed away on Tuesday, March 30, 2010, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. He is survived by his wife, Ethelyn; and one son, Dr. Gary Dalen. He was born on August 20, 1920, in Watford City, N.D., to Arne O. and Berthine Marie (Anderson) Dalen. He moved to Whitefish at the age of one year, and attended school in Whitefish, graduating from Whitefish High School in 1938. After that, he worked for the Great Northern Railway at the round house in Whitefish. He joined the United States Army in 1942, and served as a railroad engineer in the 759th Engineer Battalion. He began his service in Algiers, North Africa, and hauled munitions and supplies to the front lines in the European theater of operations. He hauled munitions for The Battle of The Bulge . It was a grueling task, where he was without sleep for several days and nights. When he finally got to bed at 2300 hours, he thought he had not slept, because the clock was still at 2300 when he awakened, but he had slept for 24 hours. After three years of service, he finally came home to the bride he had married just before leaving in 1942. She was Ethelyn Torgerson, and they were married for 67 years. He went to work for the Great Northern Railway after the service and retired as an engineer in 1981. His hobbies included fishing and camping. He enjoyed reading and read the Bible from cover to cover several times. He enjoyed his friends and would go to coffee in the morning to visit with them. He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bud was preceded in death by a son, Buz Dalen, of Albany, Mo.; by a brother, Ole Dalen, of Franklin, W.Va.; and two sisters, Mary Collier of Coulee City, Wash., and Minnie Pike of Whitefish. He is survived by his wife, Ethelyn; one son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Gary and Annette Dalen of Whitefish; four grandchildren, Dr. Paul and Janelle Johnson of Great Falls, Erik and Jennifer Retz of Whitefish, Dr. Jeff and Jenny Dalen of Kalispell, and Jim Dalen of Whitefish; nine great-grandchildren: Dalen Johnson, Daniel Johnson, Diana Johnson, Denae Johnson, Kaleb Retz, Parker Retz, Ben Dalen, Scotty Dalen, and Luke Dalen; a sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and Ken Field of Kalispell; a sister-in-law, Sugar Dalen of Franklin, W.Va.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services for Bud will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6, at the Christian Center/Assembly of God with Pastor Robert Ross officiating. Visitation will be from noon until 5 p.m. on Monday in the Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Glacier Memorial Gardens. Bud's favorite charity was A Ray of Hope, P.O. Box 5407, Kalispell, MT 59901. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Bud's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Bud's tribute wall.

Marion Louise Whary, 78

Marion Louise Whary, 78, passed away on Saturday, March 27, 2010, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell. She was born June 4, 1931, in Grand Junction, Colo., to Elva and Florence Snow. She spent much of her childhood traveling the Northwest with her father, who was a United States Forest Service Supervisor. She attended a few different schools during this time, but graduated from high school in Grand Junction. She graduated from the Chicago Institute of the Arts with a bachelor's degree in fashion design and worked with Munsingwear for many years as a lingerie designer. She married Elvin H. Whary, retired from the United States Navy Submarines, on August 18, 1956, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Marion and Elvin settled down in Pasadena, Calif., and had three children, all boys, Steve, Jim and Lance Whary. She loved spending time with her family at the second home that she, Elvin and the boys built in Big Bear Lake, Calif. In her pass time she loved working with needlepoint and occasionally selling real estate. After the boys were grown, she and Elvin spent many years traveling the world. She moved to Kalispell in 2005 to be closer to her family. Marion is preceded in death by her parents, Elva and Florence Snow, both of Grand Junction, Colo.; and her husband, Elvin H. Whary, of Pasadena, Calif.,(October 4,1994). She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Janet Snow of Rio Linda, Calif.; son and daughter-in-law, E. Lance and Peg Whary of Kalispell; son, Steve Whary, and son, Jim Whary; granddaughters, Michelle Whary of Kalispell, and Brittany Porter of Appleton, Wis. Marion had a heart of gold and will forever be loved and missed by many. To Marion's two sons, Steve and Jim: Where are you? There are no services planned for Marion at this time. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Marion's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Marion's tribute wall.

Joyce H. Merrill, 67

Joyce was born Sept. 28, 1942, in Everett, Wash., to Orville and Evelyn Rumsey. She has two brothers, Gerald Rumsey, now of Tucson, Ariz., and Brian Rumsey, now of Pony, Mont. They grew up on the beaches of Anacortes and Bridge Lake, British Columbia. She graduated from Anacortes High School. Joyce was an adventurous gal and became a licensed pilot as a student at Washington State University. She was married to Brunner Horne for 28 years and assisted him in all aspects of their business, building service stations in 11 Western states. They loved airplanes and owned Bellingham Air as a sideline. As they prospered and had more time, they spent several weeks of the summer on their boat out of La Conner and up the Inland Waterway to Alaska. She lived at times in Mount Vernon, Wash., New Meadows/McCall, Idaho, and Tucson. Joyce disliked TV and computers as being impersonal and sedentary. She loved people, quarter-horses, golden retrievers, books, golf, cruising, flying, world travel, sewing, cooking, etc... Joyce was intelligent, energetic, analytical, charitable, loyal and a great friend to all. She was not afraid to tackle any problem or project. After the death of Brunner, she married airline captain, Darrell K. Merrill, and they moved to Lakeside in 2000. She was a fabulous nurse to her husband in 2003 with his cancer; and then in June of 2009, Joyce was sent to the Huntsman Cancer Center for AML leukemia. The only known treatment failed this beautiful lady as did an experimental trial in Seattle. Joyce came home to be under the care of Dr. Michael Goodman for her last days. His staff, many doctors, nurses and specialists of Kalispell Regional Medical Center spared no effort to prolong and increase the quality of her life. She spent her days making sure that her daughter, Debbie, son-in-law, John Ellis, and granddaughters, Katie and Megan, of New Meadows, would be comfortable. Joyce took her last flight west in the ALERT helicopter from her Lakeside beach to KRMC on March 26, 2010. Joyce is survived by her husband, Darrell; three stepsons, stepgrandchildren, and numerous other family and friends. Joyce's service will be at 11 a.m. on April 10 at the Lakeside Community Chapel. Our thanks to Pastor Reece, Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and the Lakeside Ladies Community Club.

Markson Amadeus Yde, 70

Markson Amadeus Yde, 70, died March 30, 2010, at his home in Somers. He was born May 24, 1939, in Brainerd, Minn., to Harold and Irene (Pietz) Yde. Following graduation from Brainerd High School and Brainerd Community College, and attending the University of Minnesota, he graduated from Montana School of Mines as a geological engineer. He started his mining career with The Anaconda Company in Butte, managed other mining ventures in Arizona and Alaska, and later worked as a research scientist for Getty Oil in Houston. He was a member of the Army National Guard, a mining consultant, a pilot, a registered Professional Engineer and also ranched for a time in the Deer Lodge/Anaconda area. His love for people who had great needs made him a modern-day Good Samaritan. He was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for kayaking and challenging triathlons, hunting, alpine skiing, biking and encouraging others to enjoy the same. He married Lorraine Brandt, also of Brainerd, on Sept. 18, 1962, his wife of 47 years. Markson will be greatly missed by his wife, Lorraine; sisters Lois Jensen of Nisswa, Minn., and Shirley Lintner and husband, Larry, of Brainerd, Minn.; as well as his sister-in law, Marion Weismann and husband, Tom, and sister-in-law, Sally Brandt and her late husband, Robert. Also surviving are nephews, Rick Jensen, Ed Brandt, Tom Brandt, and Steve Weismann; and nieces, Lori Dowd, April Lintner, Kari Hanninen, Laura Diamond, and Elizabeth Bundy; and several grand-nephews and -nieces. Markson was preceded in death by his parents. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life is planned for later this summer in Brainerd, Minn., and also in Somers, with interment of ashes at Bethel Cemetery, near Somers. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Markson's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Markson s tribute wall.

Rubert P. Meadows, 90

On Sunday, March 28, 2010, Rubert P. Meadows, 90, of Polson, stepped into his last and best garden. Rubert was born on June 28, 1919, in Charlson, N.D., the second son of Joseph E. and Rosa P. Meadows. He spent his childhood in McKenzie County, attending school and working on the family farm where he grew to appreciate what the earth had to offer when properly nurtured. Rubert enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1942 where he trained as an aircraft instrument specialist and mechanic. He was a veteran of World War II and later served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. It was during that time that he met Hilda Eleanor Starkey Hall in Andalusia, Ala., and they were married in 1951. The couple moved to Watford City, N.D., where Rubert farmed until he moved his family to Charlo, in 1955. There he operated a small dairy farm and worked on several other farms in the area. He was also employed by Cenex for several years, running the small engine repair shop. Following Hilda s death in 1988, Rubert moved to Polson to be closer to his daughter Shirley and her family. There he promptly put down roots, about an acre of them, as he happily gardened away at his home on Kerr Dam Road. In 1993, Rubert married Dorothy Spang. They later divorced. Rubert greatly enjoyed watching baseball and football and, although he never set foot on the UM campus, he was an avid Grizzly fan. He was a league bowler for many years and a champion cribbage player. Along with his keen wit he possessed a natural writing and storytelling ability. Rubert also had an amazing faculty with numbers and dates, and could very likely tell you what the weather conditions were on any given date 50 years ago. But it was his gardening prowess that provided him with immeasurable contentment. He was determined to work the soil again and on March 17 he planted the seeds for his favorite variety of tomatoes. His family and friends will truly miss sharing his bounty. Rubert was also an honorary life member of the American Legion. Preceding Rubert in death were an infant daughter; his parents; his wife, Hilda; a sister, Rose Boots, and her husband, Lawrence; sister-in-law, Ruth Meadows; stepson, Robert Peyton Hall; an infant grandson and infant great-grandson. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Shirley and Mike Gunter, of Kalispell; his son, Jim Meadows, of Denver; stepson, William Hall, of Corpus Christi, Texas; his grandchildren, Lauri and Steve Pulley, Jeff and Jen Patterson, Lindsay and Greg Minarik, Jordan and Justin Patterson, Joseph and Ellie Meadows, and Tavenner Hall and Thad Starner; and four great-grandchildren. Rubert is also survived by two brothers, Raymond of Stevensville, and Keith and Lenore of Edmonton, Alberta; sister, Ruth, and Bob Sunderland of Edmonton; seven nieces and four nephews; and wonderful, compassionate friends, Bruce and Jane Patterson. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to The Arbor Day Foundation, or Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com. The staff of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory, Polson, considers it a privilege to care for Mr. Meadow s family.

Loretta J. O'Boyle, 58

Loretta J. O'Boyle, 58, passed away on Thursday, April 1, 2010, at the Brendan House in Kalispell, after a hard-fought, short battle with cancer. She was born on March 10, 1952, in Kalispell, to Charles E. and Ena (Raths) O'Boyle. Loretta attended St. Matthew's School and was a 1970 graduate of Flathead High School, then a 1972 graduate of Flathead Valley Community College. She later attended and was a National Trust graduate of Northwestern University. Her career began in 1973 working for Conrad and First Interstate banks for 19 years and then going on to D.A. Davidson & Company for 15 years. Loretta was a Trust Officer and retired in 2007. Loretta was raised on the family farm where she lived her entire life. She was a very generous and caring individual who had a passion for the needy. She enjoyed the beauty of the mountains and the valley. She loved spending time with family and friends and growing flowers. Loretta was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by two brothers, Eddie and Leo O'Boyle, both of Kalispell; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 7, at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, with Father Vic Langhans as celebrant. Burial will follow in the family plots at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. A rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in the Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be sent to St. Matthew's Catholic School, 602 S. Main Street, Kalispell, MT 59901, or the American Cancer Society, 3550 Mullen Rd., Suite 105, Missoula, MT 59808. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Loretta's family.

Caution advised in lake review

Representatives of the Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes make compelling arguments in support of gill-netting lake trout from Flathead Lake, but the public still should insist that they back up those arguments, in detail, in a forthcoming environmental review.

Ready for a showdown

One-armed guitarist is repeat winner at local Colgate Country Showdown

Jonathan Jenkins, the one-armed guitarist and singer from Kalispell, showed up 25 finalists last weekend to win the Flathead Colgate Country Showdown for the second year in a row.

Governor's tourism conference is in Kalispell

Knock on wood, but it appears that winter is finally behind us here in the Flathead. That means it’s time to prepare for the summer tourism rush.

Raising the stakes

New software helps non-savvy survive the stock market

It’s a pretty well-known fact that Americans are living longer than ever. Blame it on medical advances or the organic-food craze, but typical retirement just isn’t going to do it anymore.

Organist glorifies Easter through pipes

Organist Lee Scifers glorified the start of Holy Week on Palm Sunday, pumping air through 1,054 pipes to render “Psalm of Glory” for congregants of First Presbyterian Church of Kalispell.

Judge returns to fire-damaged office

A Eureka judge has finally returned to her office after a fire displaced her five months ago.

Silverado opts to move next door

Change in plans ends bid for new Kalispell zoning rule

Silverado Casino owners Terry and Judy Anderson have ended their bid to move into the former Quiznos sandwich shop, after meeting stiff opposition from the Kalispell Planning Board last month.

Daybook

Old, unknown bones recovered

Several bones of unknown origin were found near a slough around 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Egg dyeing takes an ancient turn

There are Easter eggs, and then there are Ukrainian Easter eggs. And once you’ve tried your hand at making the extraordinarily ornate designs that originated in Eastern Europe so many centuries ago, you’ll never be able to go back to the Paas egg-dyeing kits you loved as a kid.

On liberty and legal plunder ...

It’s not socialism. It’s just an “income shift” from the rich to the poor.

Andrew Selle

Mike Ferriter, Kevin Retoriano

Week in Pictures: March 29 - April 4

Easter Egg Hunting

Arnold McClellan Jordan, 85

Arnold McClellan Jordan passed away March 31, 2010, at the age of 85. He was born in Nortonville, N.D., to Alan and Rose (Palmer) Jordan, Feb 22, 1925, one of 13 children. His family migrated to the Spokane area when he was a boy. He grew up there and met his wife of 50 years, Betty (Wolf). They moved to Oregon and lived in Turner and Jefferson, where they raised four children. Arnold worked for 30 years as an appliance repair technician at Valley Appliance Service in Albany, Ore., until his retirement. He then moved to Turner where he lived until Betty s passing in 1995. Arnold then moved to Kalispell to live near his son. There he met and married Gladys Pilsch on Sept 1, 2001. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved to camp and spend time outdoors. He loved horses and enjoyed raising and training them. Arnold was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Betty; daughter, Janet (Sweeter); five sisters; and four brothers. He is survived by his wife, Gladys, of Kalispell; son, Don, and wife, Janet, of Baker City, Ore.; daughters, Myrna Hennessy and Doug of Jefferson, and Charlene Clements and Paul of Burien, Wash.; and Gladys children, Ron Pilsch and Pat Poole of Kalispell, and Peggy Gahr of Missouri. He was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Leslie Jordan, of Palo Alto, Calif.; and sisters, Pat Knudsen of Lacrosse, Wash., and Loy McKenzie of Clarks Fork, Idaho. Viewing for Arnold will be from noon to 3 p.m. today, April 3, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell. A memorial service will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 10, at Marion Church of God, 7478 Stayton Road SE, Marion, Ore. Internment will follow at Jefferson Cemetery, Jefferson, Ore. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Arnold s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Arnold s tribute wall

Rita Audrey (Rader) Moore, 87

Rita Audrey (Rader) Moore, 87, passed away March 11, 2010, at Lake View Care Center, from natural causes. She was born Aug. 27, 1922, in Winthrop, Wash., and attended high school in Winthrop. In 1938, she married Robert C. Moore in Chelan, Wash. They were married for 25 years. Rita was retired from Pacific Bell Telephone. She enjoyed reading, old time movies, gardening " especially flowers, and stream fishing. She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Rader, and mother, Eva Rader; her husband, Robert C. Moore; and sons, Robert L. and Richard L. Moore. Rita is survived by her son, Buck Moore, and his wife, Karen Moore; and grandchildren, Debra Moore of Davis, Calif., Michael Moore of Los Angeles, Brandon Moore of Statesville, N.C., Stacie Thornes of White Sulphur Springs, and Shannon Moore and Jason Moore. Per Rita s request, there will be no services. Cremation has taken place and her ashes will be scattered over the mountains of Montana.

Local teams shine in ImagiNation

KMS squads qualify for global finals in Tenn.

Four local creative problem-solving teams qualified for global finals after good showings at the state Destination ImagiNation tournament held recently in Three Forks.

Daybook

ALERT saved Polson horsewoman's life

As the April 17 ALERT banquet approaches, Donna Perkins of Polson has a few butterflies.

Late-night dairy desires curdled

Two heavyset men wearing overalls were seen trying to break into dairy trucks near a Trumble Creek Road business around 2:30 a.m. Friday. One man fell during the attempt. Both took off running westbound after failing to gain entry. No damage to company property was reported.

Jingle all the way

Flathead musicians finalists in Folgers Coffee jingle contest

Jenny Snipstead and Ethan Thompson have been creating music together since high school. Even now, almost two years after graduating from Flathead High School, the pair find themselves making music whenever they spend time together.

Hearing on status of homicide trial delayed

A District Court judge has rescheduled the hearing to determine whether an Evergreen teenager charged with the death of a mother and son in a highway crash will be tried as a juvenile or adult.

Avalanche victim died Wednesday

Rangers believe skier tumbled 2,000 feet

Glacier National Park rangers continue to investigate the death of an East Glacier man whose body was recovered in avalanche debris on the northeast face of Mount Shields Thursday.

Easter egg hunt at the Elms

Tigers Return

Tiger Woods Return

Commission wants input on redistricting

The Daily Inter Lake

Brody McKnight

Country Music Showdown prep on stage

Country Music Showdown Makeup

Country Music Showdown strumming guitar

Country Music Showdown finger picking

Country Music Showdown Billie Reis

Church Organ Pipes

Church Organist Lee Scifers

Corbin Ashton Ridinger

son of Chad and Katie Ridinger of Bigfork, was born Jan. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jacob John Dyer

son of Matthew and Jessica Dyer of Kalispell, was born March 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Charlotte Adeline Christ

daughter of Scott and Vicky Christ of Bigfork, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kandon Michael Scott Cheff-White

son of Tyler White and Kayleigh Cheff of Columbia Falls, was born March 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Macey Elizabeth Babic

daughter of Chris and Emily Babic of Whitefish, was born Feb. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Isaac Logan Carter

son of Evan and Cammie Carter of Kalispell, was born Feb. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Tristan Christopher Forsse

son of Brian and Dena Forsse of Bigfork, was born Feb. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Adrian Arthur Jackola

son of Shane and Kristin Jackola of Kalispell, was born Jan. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kristyn June Thomas

daughter of Marc and Robyn Thomas of Kalispell, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lennon Lee Spencer

son of Rod and Jessica Spencer, was born March 4 at North Valley Hospital.

Anakin Earl Fish

son of Brandon and Julie Fish of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Sierra Grace Hansen

daughter of Wendell and Ashley Hansen, was born March 4 at North Valley Hospital.

Duncan Robert DeGroot

son of Meghan and Jake DeGroot of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Hailey Lynn Hedgecock

daughter of Will T. Hedgecock and Malia L. Vandehey of Kalispell, was born Feb. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Lexie Lynn Nash

daughter of Steve Nash and Teresa Ithurbide of Kalispell, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Nikylie Jade Vance

daughter of Austin Vance and Catherine Leonard of Whitefish, was born Feb. 22 at North Valley HospitalShe weighed 6 pounds, 4.9 ounces, and was 18 inches long.

Rebekah Leann Kelley

daughter of Levi Kelley and Elizabeth Wayne of Seeley Lake, was born March 3 at North Valley Hospital.

Tavian James Ratchye

son of Jeff and Melinda Ratchye of Kalispell, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Sydney Paige Redding

daughter of Kim and Matt Redding of Whitefish, was born Feb. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Raiden Charles Hice

son of Brandon Hice and Chelsea Schock of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Kamry Ann Young

daughter of Trent and Tara Young of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Kenner Haze Stalheim

son of Shane Stalheim and Courtney Wheeler of Bigfork, was born Feb. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Maddox Michael Edwards

son of April Sampson and Michael Edwards of Kalispell, was born Jan. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kya Sarai McClain

daughter of Alex McClain and Sarah Browning of Kalispell, was born Feb. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Leila Wynn-Rose Robbennolt

daughter of Adrianne Robbennolt of Columbia Falls, was born Jan. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lyla Rose Nice

daughter of Morgan and Frances Nice of Kalispell, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Malaki Max Badeker

son of Jeff and Danie Badeker of Whitefish, was born Feb. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Lily Anne Elizabeth Gnauck

daughter of Carrie and Trevor Gnauck of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 18 at North Valley Hospital.

Julia 'Julie' Lamberson, 85

Julia Julie Lamberson, 85, passed to the loving arms of her Lord on Monday, March 29, 2010, at her home in Whitefish, surrounded by family. Julie was born in Whitefish on Jan. 10, 1925, the third child of Anna and Ralph Baker. She attended school in Whitefish, graduating from Whitefish High School in 1943. Julia was a kind, caring and generous person who always shared a smile and hello with everyone. Her family, faith and friends were the focus of her life, and she gave selflessly to each. On June 15, 1945, Julie married her love, Cloyd Lamberson. She was a devoted wife and mother who, together with Cloyd, raised two sons, John and Ralph. Julie loved all things domestic, cooking, sewing, baking, gardening, canning, participating in her children s activities and creating a nurturing home for her family. She worked through the years, most notably at the Whitefish J.C. Penney store and Physician s Clinic, where she enjoyed many friendships and helping people. Julie was a lifelong Whitefish resident, the town she loved dearly. She spoke often of wonderful times and memories of growing up in Whitefish. She was a lifetime member of Beta Sigma Phi with over 50 years of membership and recipient of the Order of the Rose. She also belonged to Pinochle Club, Birthday Club and to the Moose Lodge, where she enjoyed dinners and visits with friends. Julie also helped the Looking Back column in the Whitefish Pilot. She enjoyed weekly Saturday shopping trips with her best friend, her sister Helen. Julie enjoyed time with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-granddaughter and her nieces. Many people will remember her for the many years she shared daily morning walks around Whitefish with her dear friend Mary, ending up at the Buffalo Cafe for a soda or breakfast. Julie was a faithful member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Over the years, she was a member of the Altar Society, taught religious education and prepared the altar linens. She lived her faith daily through her devotion to prayer, her care, kindness and generosity to others, her acceptance, love and respect for everyone and every creature, and her positive acceptance of any trial life sent her way. Julie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Cloyd; a brother, Ralph; sisters, Clara Crawford and Helen Doyle; and grandson, Lonnie Lamberson. Julie is survived by her brother, John Baker, of Whitefish; sons, John and wife, Lillian, of Lacey, Wash., and family, Mandi, Luke, Willow and Reuben; Ralph and wife, Susie, of Whitefish, and family, Darin, Tara and John; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter, as well as several nieces and nephews. A parish vigil and rosary service will be at 7 p.m. Sunday at the Austin Funeral Home. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, April 5, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with the Rev. Patrick Patton as celebrant; Rite of Interment will follow at Whitefish Cemetery. A reception will follow in the St. Charles Parish Center. The family suggests memorials to the Humane Society of Northwest Montana, P.O. Box 221, Kalispell, MT 59903; St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 230 Baker Ave., Whitefish, MT 59937; or Home Options Hospice, 430 Windward Way, Suite 101, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Tucker Charles Lake

son of Janice and Matt Lake of Kalispell, was born Jan. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Orlando James Massie

son of Layne and Lynn Massie of Kalispell, was born Jan. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Forest Kai Sanderson

son of Ian and Krista Sanderson of Bigfork, was born Feb. 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Public meetings announced on gill-netting plan

A series of meetings has been scheduled to take public input on a proposed plan to reduce lake trout in Flathead Lake using gill-netting in addition to the current measures.

Daybook

Today

Avalanche kills skier in Glacier

The body of a Whitefish skier was found in Glacier National Park Thursday.

Co-op wise to table decision

With the board clearly split over a proposal to join a Portland-based power cooperative, the Flathead Electric Cooperative trustees wisely decided to table the matter last week.

Planner prank prompts panic

Locating a planner on the steps of an Appleway Drive business Thursday morning, a woman picked it up. It popped! Surprised, she called

Sen. Baucus lauds Libby provisions in health bill

It was a battle to keep provisions for Libby asbestos victims in the new federal health-care bill, but it was worth the fight, U.S. Sen. Max Baucus told a crowd gathered Wednesday for the groundbreaking of the Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD clinic) expansion.

Should the Montana football team make the jump to Division I?

West Valley School plans for expansion

West Valley School will host two meetings next week to discuss the district’s expansion plans with the community.

Working on the railroad

My Secret Treasures Annex

Julia 'Julie' Lamberson, 85

Julia Julie Lamberson, 85, passed to the loving arms of her Lord on Monday, March 29, 2010, at her home in Whitefish, surrounded by family. Julie was born in Whitefish on Jan. 10, 1925, the third child of Anna and Ralph Baker. She attended school in Whitefish, graduating from Whitefish High School in 1943. Julia was a kind, caring and generous person who always shared a smile and hello with everyone. Her family, faith and friends were the focus of her life, and she gave selflessly to each. On June 15, 1945, Julie married her love, Cloyd Lamberson. She was a devoted wife and mother who, together with Cloyd, raised two sons, John and Ralph. Julie loved all things domestic, cooking, sewing, baking, gardening, canning, participating in her children s activities and creating a nurturing home for her family. She worked through the years, most notably at the Whitefish J.C. Penney store and Physician s Clinic, where she enjoyed many friendships and helping people. Julie was a lifelong Whitefish resident, the town she loved dearly. She spoke often of wonderful times and memories of growing up in Whitefish. She was a lifetime member of Beta Sigma Phi with over 50 years of membership and recipient of the Order of the Rose. She also belonged to Pinochle Club, Birthday Club and to the Moose Lodge, where she enjoyed dinners and visits with friends. Julie also helped the Looking Back column in the Whitefish Pilot. She enjoyed weekly Saturday shopping trips with her best friend, her sister Helen. Julie enjoyed time with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-granddaughter and her nieces. Many people will remember her for the many years she shared daily morning walks around Whitefish with her dear friend Mary, ending up at the Buffalo Cafe for a soda or breakfast. Julie was a faithful member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Over the years, she was a member of the Altar Society, taught religious education and prepared the altar linens. She lived her faith daily through her devotion to prayer, her care, kindness and generosity to others, her acceptance, love and respect for everyone and every creature, and her positive acceptance of any trial life sent her way. Julie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Cloyd; a brother, Ralph; sisters, Clara Crawford and Helen Doyle; and grandson, Lonnie Lamberson. Julie is survived by her brother, John Baker, of Whitefish; sons, John and wife, Lillian, of Lacey, Wash., and family, Mandi, Luke, Willow and Reuben; Ralph and wife, Susie, of Whitefish, and family, Darin, Tara and John; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter, as well as several nieces and nephews. A parish vigil and rosary service will be at 7 p.m. Sunday at the Austin Funeral Home. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, April 5, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with the Rev. Patrick Patton as celebrant; Rite of Interment will follow at Whitefish Cemetery. A reception will follow in the St. Charles Parish Center. The family suggests memorials to the Humane Society of Northwest Montana, P.O. Box 221, Kalispell, MT 59903; St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 230 Baker Ave., Whitefish, MT 59937; or Home Options Hospice, 430 Windward Way, Suite 101, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Stanley John Connors, 89

Stanley John Connors, 89, passed away on Monday, March 29, 2010, in Kalispell. Stanley was born May 23, 1920, near Winona, Wash., the son of Jack and Mexie (Walls) Connors. Stanley was raised in Washington and graduated high school with honors. In 1942, he enlisted in the United States Navy, and worked as a radioman 1st class. He married Doris Long on Sept. 28, 1942. After his honorable discharge, he moved the family to Kalispell. Stanley worked on the Hungry Horse Dam project and then later worked at the Columbia Falls Aluminum Plant as a sheet metal worker. He finally retired after 50 years of employment. After retiring, he dedicated himself to supporting veterans of the United States military. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; a sister; a daughter, Marianne; and two great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Doris, of Kalispell; sons, Keith and Donald, of Kalispell, and Kenneth, of New Jersey; daughters, Floris of Great Falls, Doris Marie of Oklahoma; daughters-in-law, Dorothy, Becky and Karen; son-in-law, James; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation for Stanley will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 2, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 3, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Glacier Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in Stanley s name may be made to the Northwest Veterans Food Pantry, 1527 Hwy. 35 E., Kalispell, MT 59901; or to the charity of your choice. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Walter A. Carpenter Jr., 49

Walter passed away into the arms of the Lord March 23, 2010, from his home in Kalispell. He was born Sept. 26, 1960, in Petaluma, Calif., to Chief Master Sergeant Walter and Fernyssa (Kemper) Carpenter. Walter was always proud to be an Air Force Brat. In 1976, the family transferred to March AFB and lived in Hemet, Calif., where Walter graduated high school in 1979. Walter enjoyed cooking and worked as a chef in various restaurants. In April 2009, Walter and dog Molly moved to Kalispell to be near family. He loved Montana and was very happy. He made friends easily and literally would give you the shirt off his back " just ask Linda Baker. He was preceded in death by his sister, Caleen Dills; and parents, CMS Walter and Fernyssa Carpenter. Walter is survived by his brothers, Glenn and Kathy Carpenter of Palmer, Alaska, and Kenneth and Momi Carpenter of Homeland, Calif.; sister, Lisa, and Orrie Jones, of Kalispell; and his beloved Aunt Jeannette and Uncle Bill of Newark, Ohio; plus numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He had a lovely, generous soul and we will forever miss him. An open house and celebration of Walter s life will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 3, at Lisa and Orrie s home, at 163 Quincy Loop in Kalispell. Call 756-6702 for directions.

First turkey: The hunt at dawn

It was so early, even the birds were still snoring.

College's election attracts no challengers

Only the incombents John Engebretson and Mark Holston filed for the two open seats on the Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees.

A brazen government takeover

Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., calls it the “most under-reported big-Washington takeover in history,” and even that may be an understatement.

Fair-Mont-Egan bond vote ends on Tuesday

Those who haven’t yet cast their votes in Fair-Mont-Egan School’s bond election have until 8 p.m. Tuesday to return their signed ballots to the district office.

Lone Pine State Park Kids Day Camp

Summer projects include 15 blocks of alley paving

Four miles of chip sealing, 28 blocks of overlay, 15 blocks of alley paving and a few thousand feet of road striping and safety marking will be the sum total of this summer’s street improvements in Kalispell.

Supporters want fair boss reinstated

Group implores commissioners

Supporters of ousted Fair Manager Jay Scott made their case to the Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday, reiterating demands they’ve publicized over the last several weeks.

Flying camera gives boy a shiner

After picking up his son from his ex-wife Tuesday evening, a man suspected she had given the child a black eye. The boy maintained it was accidental and that he had been hit by a video camera. Watching the camera’s recording,

Daybook

Shooting-range ruling reversed

Opponents to have another day in court

The Montana Supreme Court has reversed and remanded back to Flathead District Court an earlier decision to dismiss a lawsuit over a shooting range west of Whitefish.

Kalispell street crews keep busy this spring

Kalispell’s streets are getting a good spring cleaning these days.