Annie Marie Norheim Bishop, 90

Annie Marie Norheim Bishop, 90, passed away Friday, April 15, 2016, at the family home in Evergreen. Through her many roles from daughter to great-grandmother, Annie steadfastly practiced her core beliefs of unconditional love and acceptance and social justice through her constant loving presence and endless good humor.

Born in Harlem in 1925, Annie married Douglas Bishop in 1948. Together they raised seven children. In addition to being an irreplaceable mother, she also served as the Evergreen correspondent for the Daily Inter Lake, started a Cub Scout troop, taught swim lessons and Head Start children, served as Civil Defense coordinator during the height of the Cold War, marched for Native and women’s rights and against the Vietnam War, milked a cow, raised a garden, fixed every cut with butterfly bandaids, was mother to the neighborhood kids and welcomed everyone. She also encouraged her children try everything: read, study music, math and the sciences, explore the world, march in the parade, participate in athletics, join 4-H, and dance.

“Mom” never let you leave her home without giving you something: ham, cream soda, bacon pancakes ... or some gesture letting you know she loves you.

“Mom” was able to stay in her home because of the love and dedication of her daughter, Lorene. For that we will be forever thankful.

She was preceded in death by Doug in 1983 and her son Marty in 1988. She is survived by her sons, Ken Bishop of Fairbanks, Alaska; Ross and Rene Bishop and Jerry Bishop, of Kalispell; daughters Sheila and John Stillian of Spokane, Washington, Lorene Bishop and Tana and Bruce Corpron of Kalispell and many delightful grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Because food and good company were the way Mom showed her love, we would like you to make donations to the food bank in lieu of flowers.

Everyone’s invited to celebrate Annie’s life at a summer BBQ (date to be determined) at the family home.