Renee D. Bernau Olmstead, 60

Renee “earned her wings” Saturday, May 30, 2015, due to a long battle with COPD. “She is able to now breathe freely and kick up her heels.”

Renee was born Sept. 12, 1954, in Kalispell, to Roy and LaVaughn Bernau. She graduated from Flathead High School, married Dan and had two children, Jason and Julie. She loved being outdoors; they spent many weekends camping up in Thompson River when the kids were young. She loved riding bikes with the kids and riding the Honda 90s around. We hope they have Honda 90s up in heaven.

She worked at the Flathead High School cafeteria, until she had to retire due to her health. Working there she met some of her dearest friends, who became life long friends and remained close to her until her freedom from this life. Her friends will miss her terribly.

She loved her three grandchildren, Hailey and Cade Gardner and Shaffer Olmstead. They meant the world to her. She wasn't able to go watch them in sports or school events because of health, but now she will be able to. Jordan Horn was very special to her, and she was very proud of her. Her grandchildren will miss her deeply.

She is survived by Jason and Jennifer; their son, Shaffer; Jen’s daughter, Jordan; Julie Gardner, husband Tracy along with their two children Hailey and Cade; her mom LaVaughn Bernau; brother Allen along with his wife Linda; sister Donna Freebury and husband Ernie; along with nieces and nephews. Until we met again, we all will truly miss Renee, our mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and dear friend.

A celebration of life will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday June 7, at a family friend’s, 1010 West Springcreek, Kalispell. Please call Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home at 752-6666 if further directions are needed. Bring stories and laughter as we want to remember her life with joy.