Peggy Ann Fitschen

RONAN - Peggy Ann Fitschen, 69, died Nov. 16, 2004, at Village Health Care in Missoula, following a long illness with cancer. Her family and friends deeply appreciate the medical care she received from Dr. Judy Schmidt and staff over the years, and during Peggy's brief stay at Village Health Care.

Peggy was born April 30, 1935, in Hebron, N.D., to Henry and Freda Eder. Shortly thereafter, Henry, Freda, sister Audrey (Loman) and Peggy moved to Ronan where the family opened a Gamble's general store in Ronan and St. Ignatius. Henry and Freda later operated a finance business in Ronan. Peggy graduated from Ronan High School in 1953 and attended the University of Montana.

On Feb. 14, 1954, Peggy married high school sweetheart Everett (Chris) Christensen of Polson. They soon moved to the Bay Area in California where Chris was involved in banking and son Gary and daughter Gayle were born.

Peggy and children returned to the Mission Valley and Ronan in 1970. On Aug. 5, 1972, Peggy married long-time Mission Valley resident and educator Stuart Fitschen.

After returning to Ronan, Peggy enjoyed working at her sister Audrey's clothing store in Ronan and later in the Ronan High School office, where many students came to know her as Ms. Fitschen. Peggy will be remembered as a loving and caring grandmother, wife, mother and friend.

She was fond of the Mission Valley, her Ronan community, home, friends and church. Peggy was an active member of the Ronan United Methodist Church, enjoyed singing in the church choir, served as the chair of the church's memorial fund, and was involved with the prayer team.

She was a member of the Mission Valley Community Concert, Ronan Senior Citizens Center, and the Mission Valley No. 93 Order of Eastern Star where she served as past patron. Peggy was also proud to be a card-carrying member of the Golden Age Ronan School Booster Club.

Over the years, Peggy met many people and made many friends. Her collection of Christmas cards from friends afar and near was a testament to her many friendships. Many of these friends would drop by for a summertime chat on her patio and a refreshing glass of sun-made ice tea.

Peggy was the unofficial matriarch of Dr. Judy's Tuesday chemo group where common bonds and friendships were created. Her Tuesday chemo group and Dr. Judy's staff became part of Peggy's extended family.

Peggy found comfort and joy being at her home of 32 years, especially during the holiday season when she enjoyed hosting holiday dinners and displaying her collection of around-the-world- obtained Christmas tree ornaments. She enjoyed working in the yard and tending to her flowering pots and hanging baskets. Peggy was skilled at needlepoint, crocheting and knitting. Her creations will be cherished forever.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Freda Eder, sister Audrey Loman, and husbands Chris Christensen and Stuart Fitschen.

Survivors include her daughter Gayle; son-in-law Ron Gustine and grandchildren Chris and Chantal of Kalispell; son Gary Christensen, daughter-in-law Holly; step-grandson Scott, Mount Vernon, Wash.; nephew Roy Loman and family of Killington, Vt., and nieces Linda Loman of Ronan and Merle Loman and family of Victor.

The family suggests memorials be made to the Ronan United Methodist Church Historic Building Preservation Fund, c/o Ingraham Law Office, 10 Adams Street S.E., Ronan, MT 59864; or, the Guardian Angels (Tough on Cancer), 2835 Fort Missoula Road, Suite 301, Missoula, MT 59864; or, to a favorite charity of your choice.

A memorial service was held on Nov. 30, at the Ronan United Methodist Church. Inurnment followed at the Ronan Cemetery. Pastors Karen McRae and Tish Herries officiated. Cremation was under the direction of Shrider's Mortuary of Ronan.