Vera May Ashcraft

POLSON - Vera May Ashcraft, 86, of Polson, passed away into restful peace on Monday, Aug. 16, 2004, at her home in Polson.

Vera and her sister Virginia were born on May 9, 1918, in Hobson, to Henry and Mabel Nygren, the first twins in Judith Basin County. Henry and Mabel Nygren were original homesteaders in Montana, and that land remains in the family to this day.

Vera and her twin, as youngsters, were mischievous tomboys who eventually grew into fashionable young ladies under the strict Swedish guidance of their parents.

Vera was a talented musician and played the piano and drums in a band that included her twin sister. Both girls obtained their advanced schooling in Indianapolis.

Vera was the cherished wife of the late Basil Ashcraft; loving mother of Larry, Linda and Shannon; mother-in-law of Richard Hudak of Walnut Creek, Calif., John Beatty of San Ramon, Calif., and Dorothy Ashcraft of Polson; adored grandmother of Schuyler and Whitney Hudak, John and Kelsy Beatty, Devin Scattini, Tambrely Kelley, Erin and Ben Hancock and Angelina Eldridge.

She is also survived by her twin sister, Virginia Dokken of Great Falls; and sister Carolyn Smith of Kennewick, Wash., and many other adored nephews, nieces and relatives.

Not to be forgotten are the many dear friends she made over the years and the special relationship she shared with her loving caregiver, Lori Wilbert of Polson.

Vera and Basil moved to Helena in 1947 where they raised their three children. She opened and worked tirelessly in her hair styling salon, "Vera's." In 1976, Vera and Basil retired and moved to Flathead Lake where they cleared four acres of land and built a home on Finley Point.

Vera spent her leisure time traveling around the world, playing the organ, reading, crocheting, creating ceramics, canning, second-guessing the stock market, and enjoying her family and friends.

She was a devoted member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Polson and a 54-year member of Eastern Star. Vera's optimism, interest in her community and sense of humor were always evident.

She will be remembered by all who knew her for her kind, caring and helpful nature. Vera's work ethic was a shining example to her children, who she encouraged and inspired to strive for personal growth and excellence in their respective careers.

Family and friends are invited to the memorial service Friday, Aug. 20, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Andrew Episcopal Church with the Rev. Edwina Aker officiating. A reception will follow the service.

Memorial donations may be made to Lake County Hospice, 711 Main Street SW Ronan, MT 59864. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home, Polson