Cindy Hauer, 66

Cindy Hauer, 66, died in her sleep at her home in Hungry Horse on June 28, 2011, after a long struggle with emphysema.

She was born Feb. 17, 1945, in Lawton, Okla. Her parents were Walter and Julia (Guthrie) Fennell.

Her family includes her daughter, Julie Gulliford and former husband, Robert Gulliford; sisters, Yolonda Staten and Lilly “Susie” Stepp; a brother, James Fennell; nieces, Melanie Pope and Gina Kaye; nephews, Shannon Stepp, Hunter White, Scott Stoffer and Bill Staten; caregivers and special friends, Elaine Matthews and Theresa Kuehl; and all of her many friends.

Cindy found her home when she experienced the free spirit of Montana. She ran produce stands in Hungry Horse, specializing in Montana cherries and huckleberries. She will be remembered by many as the “Huckleberry Queen of Hungry Horse.” She even painted her house huckleberry purple and planted purple flowers in her yard. She loved her life as an independent business woman. When her health no longer allowed her to sell produce, she became an avid fan of eBay and craigslist, trading until the very end.

Cindy's greatest passion was to help people. She believed in angels and tried hard to be one by helping those who had been rejected and forgotten by others. She provided food, work and shelter for many in need, but most importantly acceptance and love.

Cindy knew just about everyone, loved everyone, had time for everyone and will be missed.

Cindy loved the eruption of all American free spirit that typified a Fourth of July celebration in Montana.   Appropriately, a memorial service will be held for Cindy at 3 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at Cindy's Park, 235 Beta Rd., in Hungry Horse.

Arrangements are entrusted to Columbia Mortuary.