Lena May Naethe, 77

Lena May Naethe, 77, “went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.

She was born in Bridgeport, Conn., on April 27, 1934, to Frederick and Violet (Cavanaugh) Slade.

At the age of 2, Lena moved with her family to Boston, where she received her early education. It was here she met Gary Charles Naethe, while he was on shore leave. After a very quick courtship, three weeks, they were married on April 6, 1953, in Boston. Lena worked various jobs in textile mills and other factories during Gary's absence. Upon his return, the couple moved to Kalispell, Gary's home town. In 1957, they returned to Boston, where Lena busied herself with raising a family. In 1970 the family moved back to the Flathead Valley, settling in Whitefish until their final move in 1986 out to Kila, where they remained.

Lena spent many hours with her artwork; drawing, painting and with beadwork. Many of these treasures adorn the homes of family and friends.

Lena was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother, Frederick “Sonny” Slade; and her sister, Ruth Fitzgerald.

She is survived by her daughter, Violet Rhodes of Kila; three sons, Gary Charles Naethe Jr., and wife, Teri, of Kila; David Naethe and wife, Julie, of Smith Valley; and Josh Naethe and Shawna Lord of Kila; 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

“God bless you mom, you will be forever missed.”

Memorial services for Lena will be held at a later date.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Lena’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Lena’s Tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories.