Sandra Kay (Hale) Unger, 68
Sandra Kay (Hale) Unger, 68, passed away Aug. 13, 2010, after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig s disease). She showed grace, humor and dignity throughout her illness. Family, friends and all who knew her will miss her warm heart, infectious smile and amazing spirit. Sandi was born Oct. 21, 1941, to Ann and Arnold Hale. She graduated from Whitefish High School in 1959 and continued her education at Kinman Business College in Spokane. After graduating, she returned to Whitefish and began working at Big Mountain Ski and Summer Resort, where she held many positions during the next 45 years. It was at Big Mountain where she met and married Thomas Unger in 1965. They raised two daughters, Tracy and Kelly. Sandi and Tom were fortunate to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary in May with family and friends. Sandi spent her most of her adult life working on Big Mountain. She was known as the one to go to if there was a problem, keeping tabs on everyone and everything. Skiers would bring her parkas with lift grease on them, and magically, the next day the parkas were returned stain-free! As noted to employees, Sandi was the keeper of resort history, straight-talker, lifetime season pass-holder and the longtime heart and soul of Big Mountain ... whether you knew her or not, you have benefited from her dedication to this place in many ways. Sandi was a wonderful friend to all who knew her and would do everything she could for others in her life. Sandi served on the board of directors for Whitefish Credit Union for several years. Her love of gardening ensured family and friends were surrounded by flowers on their deck. She helped to create a haven for the deer and birds in their backyard, taking the occasional visits by pesky bears, skunks and turkeys in stride. Hearing new stories about her grandchildren and grandpuppies always put a smile on her face and laughter in her voice. She is survived by her husband, Tom; children, Tracy and husband Tellus Calhoun of Albany, Ore., and Kelly Sue and husband Kelly Kadlec of Herriman, Utah; grandchildren, Jessica Calhoun, and Jaret and Trevor Kadlec; brother, Martin Hale of Whitefish; sister, Sydney Watson of Whitefish; and many other extended family members. Sandi was preceded in death by her parents, Ann and Arnold Hale. A celebration of Sandi s life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28, at the Moose Lodge in Whitefish. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Home Options Hospice in Kalispell.