Alyssa Lane Sladek, 37

Alyssa Lane Sladek, 37, was born June 3, 1987, to Scott and Connie (Landsgaard) Sladek. She spent the first three years of her life in California before moving with her family to Kalispell. Alyssa was homeschooled and pursued many interests like riding horses, raising 4-H animals, shooting and archery, flute, basketball and volleyball. Her first job was cleaning emu pens, during which she enjoyed singing for them. 

Alyssa graduated in 2005. That same year, Alyssa was immersed (baptized) into Christ, a commitment that defined her life. She enrolled in the Adventures in Missions program in Lubbock, Texas. Her 18-month assignment was in New Zealand, assisting a local church. This launched a life of showing God’s kindness around the world, including teaching English in Xiamen, China, for three years. 

Alyssa attended Flathead Valley Community College and Oklahoma Christian University and worked as a registered nurse in Cutbank. She later became a licensed massage therapist, taking great satisfaction in learning and incorporating new techniques to help her clients. She also volunteered, preparing and serving food at the Samaritan House in Kalispell. 

She loved her family, friends, and future friends, often inviting any and all to join hikes, camping, kayaking, or baking. She readily accepted the invitations of others, whether for a backpacking trip, game night, or a chat over coffee. A fiery redhead, she added spice to every gathering with her silliness and enthusiasm. Alyssa especially enjoyed taking each niece and nephew out for their birthday. 

Alyssa was tragically taken early from us by a New Year’s Day car accident. Her family is comforted by knowing she is with our Lord, and that they will see her again when Jesus returns. 

She is survived by her parents, Scott and Connie Sladek; siblings, Janelle Pedersen (Gregory), Kelsey Heffernan (Shea), Jenna Wagar (Josh), and Shelby Chelini (Miles); paternal grandfather, Don Sladek (Arlene); nieces and nephews, Taytton, Natalie, Samuel, Hudson, Landon, Dawson, Anna, Lewis, Chevelle, Bodie, and two on the way; along with lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

A celebration of Alyssa’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25, at Family Life Christian Church, 1075 Foys Lake Road, Kalispell. To send online condolences, please visit www.columbiamortuary.com.