Shirley Marie Fournier Miller, 82

Shirley Marie Fournier Miller passed away in Kalispell on March 11, 2018.

She was born to John and Viola Fournier on July 1, 1935, in the Fort Peck Dam boomtown known as New Deal, Montana. She was raised in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead County High School.

She attended the University of Montana (then Montana State University) where she met her future husband, David R. “Moose” Miller. They wed in 1955 and began a lifelong adventure that took them to places all over the world, but always with the Flathead Valley as their home.

In 1957 Shirley inherited a small tavern, The Corral, from her father. Through hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance, she and Moose were able to create a wonderful business known far and wide as Moose’s Saloon. She was an owner of this marvelous creation for more than 60 years, right up to her death.

She was a loving mother who raised her six children with patience and humor (and activity, lots of activity). She gladly attended every sporting match and school event. Her house was always open to a stream of other children and adults who came for play, chats, meals and comfort. She created a warm and welcoming home for all to enjoy.

Shirley had a lifelong interest in reading, art, painting, style, gardening, cooking, entertaining and travel. She was active in the University of Montana Foundation and received the Montana Alumni Award in 1996. She enjoyed friends from all walks of like and from all parts of the world.

Her children, Bruce, Wallis, Royce, Lexie, and Aimee, survive her, as do 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Her husband, Moose, and son, Lee preceded her in death.

A reception to honor Shirley’s life will be announced in the near future.

The family suggests memorials in Shirley’s name to the University of Montana Foundation, P.O. Box 7159, Missoula, Montana 59807; or the Hockaday Museum of Art, 302 Second Avenue East, Kalispell, Montana 59901.