Neidra Marie (Waltz) Newberry, 88

Neidra Marie (Waltz) Newberry was born on Oct. 31, 1921, to Ernest and Mary Waltz, in Arkansas City, Kan. She died on May 27, 2010, at Brendan House, after a short but hard-fought battle with cancer. She grew up helping her dad on Greens Farm in southern Kansas, attending country school, learning about God s love at the United Brethren Church and enjoying a large extended family. After graduating from high school, she attended Arkansas City Junior College. Following her father s death, she completed medical technology training in Wichita, Kan. Neidra married H.W.C. Doc Newberry in 1946, and they moved to Montana in 1955 with their two children, Mike and Susan. Daughter Sally was born two years later. In addition to her duties as wife and mother, Neidra assisted Doc in his veterinary practice. She also worked part-time at Kalispell General Hospital as a medical technician. In later years, Neidra enjoyed her work in medical offices around the valley. Neidra loved every aspect of life. She loved her children, but adored her grandchildren, and was thrilled to celebrate the birth of her first great-grandchild. She liked relaxing at Bitterroot Lake, eating watermelon, and sitting around campfires. She valued her friendships with people of many ages and liked to discuss new ideas. She liked playing bridge, golf and racquetball, and was especially proud of the three gold medals she earned at National Senior Olympics in racquetball. She spent many joyful hours studying the Bible and leading Bible studies. She considered her college degree in Biblical studies, completed in 2001 at the age of 80, to be one of her finest accomplishments. She loved challenging her mind and body, laughing and playing practical jokes. She loved the Lord and sharing God s love with others. As much as she loved life, Neidra was ready to meet her creator when the time came. Neidra was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and one daughter-in-law, Ginny Newberry. She is survived by her children, Mike Newberry of Nashville, Tenn., Susan Hanson and husband Marlin, and Sally Newberry, all of Kalispell; grandchildren, Brandon Hanson, wife, Jennifer, and children, Gabe and Lilly, of Hobbs, N.M., Hillary Harris and husband, Adam, of Billings, and Whitley and Natalie Newberry of Kalispell. A memorial service for Neidra is scheduled for 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 1, at Faith Free Lutheran Church, 405 Liberty Street. Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church building project or to a charity of the donor s choice. Friends are encouraged to visit our website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.