Marlys J. Frey, 85

Marlys J. Frey, 85, passed away on Feb. 25, 2014, at HeathCenter Northwest in Kalispell, after a long battle with cancer.

 Marlys was born to Alva and Mable Moffatt in Bottinue, N.D., on May 25, 1929.

On Nov. 2, 1946, Marlys married John Frey in Minot, N.D. Together they raised nine children.

Marlys was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, John, in September 1998; son, Ron Frey; daughter, Gloria Frey Crawford; and grandson, Brandon Frey.

 Marlys work as a waitress for most of her career, and also worked in the plywood plant in Oregon until she retired.

Mom loved her children and grandchildren and loved spending as much time as possible with them. She enjoyed gardening and would plant as many flowers as her yard would hold ... She loved to play Texas Hold’em and bingo. She so enjoyed life and tried to get as much as she could out of it.

She also belonged to 55-Plus and the Alliance Church in Columbia Falls. She lived in Columbia Falls for the past 23 years.

 Marlys is survived by children, Rod Frey of Oregon, Johnnie Frey and Debbie of Alabama, Don Frey of Columbia Falls, Marla Smith and Tom of South Dakota, Melvin Frey and Lori of Alaska, and Lonnie Frey of Columbia Falls. Marlys is also survived by her brother, Robert Moffatt, of Minnesota.

Marlys has numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild whom she cherished.

Service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls. A celebration of Marlys’ life will be held at Fellowship Alliance Church, 1025 Seventh Ave. W. in Columbia Falls following the service, until 5 p.m.

Columbia Mortuary is caring for Marlys’ family.