Helen Delores Tipton, 79

Helen Delores Tipton, a day short from 80 years old, passed away from pneumonia on Friday, Sept. 30, 2011, in Missoula.

She was born on Oct. 1, 1931, in Highmore, S.D., to Frank and Dorothy L. (Taylor) Grover.

She was married on Aug. 9, 1948, in Miller, S.D., to Herbert H. Tipton from Harris, Mo. They had two sons and three daughters, Herbert R. Tipton, Lee Tipton-Jackshaw, James A. Tipton, Mona Thompson and Iva Schroeder.

They moved to Davenport, Iowa, and then to Columbia Falls where they lived for 15 years. Helen and Herb moved to Drummond in 1973, until 1981, when husband Herbert H. Tipton passed away.

Helen moved to Kalispell and worked until she retired from the State of Montana social services department on July 7, 1997, and then moved back to Drummond.

Helen was baptized in Our Savior's Lutheran Church.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert H. Tipton; her mother, Dorothy Kirk; father, Frank Grover; and son, James A. Tipton.

Survivors include three daughters and their spouses, Lee and Ken Jackshaw, Mona and Bob Thompson, and Iva and Greg Schroeder; and one son, Herbert R. and Delcie Tipton. Helen has 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Family meant everything to her and, in turn, her family and friends felt that there could not be a better mother or friend. Helen was spunky, fun, a spitfire, and would always be there for anyone. She was best known for her kind heart, big smile and funky hats she would always have on.

Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Cremation & Burial Society of the Rockies, and at Helen's request a private family memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the New Chicago Cemetery in Drummond.

She wished to express her heartfelt gratitude for all of the kindness, caring and friendships she received and enjoyed throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Granite County Medical Center, 310 Sansome, Philipsburg, MT 59858; or St. Patrick Hospital Head Trauma Research, Missoula, MT 59802.