Gloria C. Gilmartin, 68

Gloria C. Gilmartin, loving mom, grandmother, sister and aunt, died peacefully Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2010, at her daughter s home in Kalispell, surrounded by her family. She was 68 years old. Born in 1941 in Chicago, Gloria graduated from Holy Family Academy in 1959 and went on to study mathematics at De Lourdes College in Des Plaines, Ill. She began a career as a secretary shortly after graduating high school and worked as such in multiple industries, including real estate and mortgage, until she retired. In 1974, Gloria married William W. Loud; they were later divorced. Together Gloria and William had two daughters, Christine and Cathleen. In August 1987, Gloria sought recovery for alcoholism. Since that time she actively participated in service work and provided fellowship to others in recovery. On Aug. 8, 2010, she celebrated 23 years of sobriety. In 2000, Gloria moved to Lake Geneva, Wis., where she married Joseph Gilmartin (now deceased) in October 2000. Together she and Joe devoted their lives to helping others in recovery. In 2007, Gloria relocated to Kalispell to spend time with her daughter, Christine, and grandchildren. In the short time she resided in Montana, Gloria developed a strong network of friends. She touched many lives and brought joy, humor and wisdom to those she knew. She loved being outside with her grandchildren, playing with her dog, Max, and socializing. In her quiet moments, Gloria enjoyed painting, knitting and writing. A deeply spiritual person, Gloria embraced beliefs from the Native American culture, Buddhism and Catholicism. She is survived by her two daughters, Christine and Perry Nelson III, and Cathleen and Jason McCauley; grandchildren, Taylor Spring, Silver Nelson, Perry Nelson IV and Tiel Nelson; brother, Joseph, and Paulette Gawel; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. today, Aug. 13, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home, Kalispell. A celebration of life memorial lunch will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 14, at the home of Christine Nelson, 1659 Stag Lane, Kalispell. The family suggests that memorial contributions be sent to Ewam Buddha Garden at P.O. Box 330, Arlee, MT 59821; or another organization of choice. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Gloria s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Gloria s Tribute Wall and offer condolences.