Donna Fyrne Alton, 78

Donna Fyrne Alton, 78, a lifelong Flathead Valley resident, passed away on Monday, Feb. 8, 2010, at her residence in Kalispell. She was born on June 9, 1931, in Bigfork, the daughter of Jack and Marvle (Croskrey) Richey. She graduated from Flathead County High School. Over 60 years ago, Donna met John Alton in the halls of Flathead County High School. At that time she worked as a waitress at the Bi-Rite Cafe in Kalispell and it is rumored that John was one of their best customers. Holding hands, they were married on April 17, 1949. Sixty-one years later they were still holding hands as she slipped peacefully from this earth into the loving arms of our Lord. Donna was an accomplished woman, excelling at all she set her mind to. Her family will forever cherish her paintings which grace the walls of her homes. Donna created works of art with a crochet hook or a ball of yarn. Donna was most at home in her kitchen and worked miracles welcoming, feeding and entertaining friends and family, no matter what time of day. She always had the coffee on. Donna was a longtime member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Her last years were difficult due to ill health and the loss of her eyesight, yet she always approached each challenge with determination, optimism and dignity, never wavering in the faith she held so dear. She is now lovingly reunited with her mother, Marvle Croskrey; beloved sister, Betty Day; father, Jack Richey; stepfathers, John Croskrey and Jack Passey; mother-in-law, Marie Alton; and father-in-law, Fred Alton. Donna is survived by her husband, John; her two children, son, Don Alton, and daughter, Marlene Alton-Horsfall, and her husband, Allen; four grandchildren, Crystal Thompson Allison and her husband, Andy, Jack Alton and his wife, Kirsten, Tom Alton, and Farah Perry; four great-grandchildren, Shea Lynn Allison, Jack Alton Jr., Emalee and Austin; and one brother, Jack Passey. Donna also leaves behind her lifelong friend and sister-in-law, Marge Miciewicz; sister-in-law, Joyce White; brother-in-law, Les Day; 10 nieces and four nephews. The family wishes to thank all the angel care givers at both the Brendan House and Agape Home Care for their loving care over the last several months. Crystal, Jeri and Diana " we are forever grateful. Donna was very proud of her Irish heritage " so here s an Irish Blessing for you, Mom " until we meet again. Memorial services for Donna will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, with Pastor Larry Stappler officiating. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Donna s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Donna s tribute wall.