Leona Ida Ciresi, 86

Leona Ida Ciresi, 86, passed away in Kalispell on Thursday, April 14, 2011, of cancer.

Leona was born on Dec. 14, 1924, in Baltimore where she was also raised.

She worked most of her life as an executive secretary for Safeco Insurance.

Leona married Anthony Ciresi in January 1950 in Baltimore. They were married for 55 years. Anthony passed away in June of 2005.

In her younger years, Leona was a professional dancer with the Arthur Murray School of Dance. She danced every Saturday night throughout her married life. They were members of the "The Charmers."

She was preceded in death by her husband, Anthony Ciresi; and her parents, Leon and Bertha Kapelanczyk.

Leona is survived by her son, Michael Anthony Ciresi, of Modesto, Calif.; brothers, Frank Kapelanczyk of Kalispell, and Joseph Kapelanczyk of Forest Hill, Md.; nieces and nephews, Frank and Bonnie Kapelanczk, Brian and Kathy Frame, Sue and Bob Trodick, Janet and Denny  Beach, and Matt and Missey Kapelanczyk; and great-nieces, and great-nephews, Rebecca Dickey, Justin, and Jake Trodick, Chris Kapelanczyk, Amanda Dorband, Lara, Lucas and Cole Kapelanczyk.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com to leave a message or sign her book. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.