Frances A. Combs, 78

Willie Frances Alexander Combs, 78, of Fortine, was called home Nov. 24, 2016. She was born Aug.13, 1938, to Wilson Forrest Alexander and Lela May Daniels at the family home in Luling, Texas.

She spoke often of her childhood days in Texas, recalling fondly her many adventures with her brother and sisters. After graduating high school, she was working at a cafe when in walked a man who wouldn’t take no for an answer.

She married the love of her life, Robert L. Combs, on June 14, 1958. They traveled extensively, following his work and then settled in Montana to raise their family. After Robert retired, they spent many days together fishing, camping and visiting family throughout the Western United States.

Mom’s many interests included, playing cards, putting together puzzles, reading and crocheting and spending time with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. “Grandma Tuffy’s” house in Fortine was a home for all.

She was preceded in death by her son, Rodney; her husband, Robert; her grandson, Lance; her parents; her sister, Beatrice; and son-in-law, John Sistok.

She is survived by her sister Dorothy Westbrook, sister Evelyn Schule, and brother Benjamin Alexander, all of Texas; her son, Russell Combs, of Montesano, Washington; daughter, Lela Sistok, of Kalispell; and daughter, Shelley Ax, of Big Lake, Alaska, and their spouses; stepsons, Robert and Gary Combs; grandchildren, Matthew, Abigail, Dalton, Rebecca, Heather, Meghan, Rachel, Tawnya and Samantha; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, at the Tobacco Valley Cemetery. There will be a reception following at 3:30 p.m. at Jerry’s in Fortine.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home of Eureka. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.