Theresa Harris-Powell, 53
Theresa Harris-Powell, 53, passed away on Oct. 22, 2018, in Missoula.
Theresa is survived by her mother, Wendy Hopfensperger; daughter, Heidi Vanamann (Darren); grandsons, Greyson and Maverick; sister, Jessie Williams; brothers, Michael Williams (Linda), John Williams (Heather) and Patrick Williams (Jennifer); six nieces and nephews, and multiple aunts, uncles and cousins.
Theresa was born on Aug. 20, 1965, at the Amarillo Air Force Base in Texas to Edward and Wendy Williams. After traveling with the Air Force for several years, the family settled in Door County, Wisconsin, where Theresa spent the majority of her childhood. In high school she participated in many activities including cheerleading, band, softball and volleyball. After high school, Theresa joined the United States Marine Corps and proudly served for several years as a mechanic. While in the Marines she earned the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge. She was stationed mainly at Camp Pendleton in San Diego and spent time stationed overseas in Okinawa, Japan. After her service with the Marines, Theresa traveled and eventually settled in Montana, where she welcomed her daughter Heidi into her life.
Growing up on a farm in Door County, Theresa developed a strong love for all animals, especially horses. Theresa spent much of her time caring for, training and showing her beloved horses, winning many trophies and ribbons. She also cared for and raised many other pets and animals on the farm. Living on the farm developed Theresa’s lifelong appreciation and enjoyment of adventure and the great outdoors. Living in the mountains of Montana, she took every opportunity to spend time with her daughter, family and friends participating in adventures outdoors, including camping, fishing, hiking and tubing. Being outdoors was one of her greatest joys in life.
Theresa always possessed a very caring, giving spirit. Throughout her life she sought opportunities to help others, be it animals or humans. Theresa was very active in the church community, and routinely volunteered her time for church activities, food pantries and community events. She was readily willing to lend a helping hand to friends and strangers alike. Theresa participated multiple times in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, volunteered with the American Red Cross, and donated supplies to various shelters.
Theresa took great pride in her daughter Heidi and grandsons Greyson and Maverick. Her greatest joy in life was spending as much time with them as possible — visiting, playing, snuggling and going on adventures. Theresa instilled a love for God and family into her daughter and was very proud of the young woman she grew up to be.
A celebration of life service is scheduled for Theresa at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3, at Hope Church, 436 Birch Grove Road, Kalispell. Full military honors will conclude the service and will be performed by the USMC Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Missoula Food Bank and Community Center, 1720 Wyoming St, Missoula, MT 59801.