Kari Lynn Cole, 80

Kari Lynn Cole passed away Nov. 4, 2020.

Kari was born Feb 21,1940, to John and Catherine Finnland in Libby. Being very proud of her Norwegian heritage, Kari learned to ski at a very young age. Her husband of 61 years, Bob, proposed to her atop the old Libby ski hill. They were a husband and wife Ski Patrol team for many years. Kari and Bob were married July 26,1959, in Libby.

Kari was a librarian for many years, beginning with the Book Mobile and then as the children’s librarian for Flathead County Library. Later she enjoyed working as the librarian at Elrod and Edgerton schools. She was also very active in Beta Sigma Phi for more than 55 years and always attended the annual Sweetheart Ball.

Kari and Bob could always be found on the ski hill, camping and hiking in the area. For more than 20 years, Kari, Marilyn Olson, Anna Miller and Carol Bodine hiked weekly throughout the area.

Kari is survived by her husband, Bob; a daughter, Kari Syrena (Russell) Plakke, of Lakewood, Colorado; grandchildren, Dr. Melissa (Douglas) Plakke Hall, of Lawrence Kansas; SSgt. Kevin Plakke, U.S. Air Force; great-grandson, Korvid Hall; sisters-in-law, Betty (Gary) Burnett of Cochrane, Alberta, and Mary Lee (Bill) Cole of Spokane. Kari also has many cousins in Norway and many caring friends.

A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.