Berenice (Naomi) Proud, 100

Berenice (Naomi) Proud passed away on Dec. 12, 2013, at the home of her granddaughter, Naomi Proud, in Kalispell. Berenice had been with Naomi for three weeks. She was 100 years and 8 months old.

Berenice was born in Proctor on April 11, 1913, to Jane and Jerome Thomas, one of five children. The surviving sister is Lois Birky of Kalispell.

Berenice was raised in the Proctor/Dayton valley and that is where she met her husband, Daryl Proud (now deceased). They were married on Dec. 30, 1933.  

Of that union two sons were born, Jimmy and Billy. They lived in different areas, but came back to the valley in 1943, when they moved to the Proud Ranch, one mile out of Dayton. They worked hard for their living and lived a full, happy life.

They always found time and energy for golfing, water skiing, sightseeing, cards and great times with friends, nieces, nephews, lots of family gatherings and the grandchildren they treasured.

A favorite story of Berenice’s was of her driving the feed truck, with the dog Shekel always riding on the roof and Daryl standing on the back. One time Berenice hit the brakes and saw Shekel begin to slide down the windshield, so she hit the gas and saved Shekel, but Daryl flipped off the end of the truck and landed in the fresh cow pies!

The poem “Walking with Grandma” describes her love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The kids all have such wonderful memories of Berenice, Daryl and the ranch.

Jimmy's daughter, Naomi Proud, lives in Kalispell, where she helped with her grandmother. Her extended family is in Oregon. Billy's kids Brenda and Dave Korzun with Pamela Jane “P.J.” and Tony live in Edmond, Okla. Brian, Carla and Mariah live in Missoula, Brad and Misty live in San Antonio, Texas.

Berenice’s wish was to be cremated; her ashes were put next to Daryl’s under the old pine tree on the ranch. She said she didn't want her ashes scattered there, though, because she didn't want Jack's cows to poop on her. Her humor, laughter and silliness will always be with those that new and loved her.

There are no services planned for Berenice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory. Message of condolence may be shared online at groganfuneralhome.com