Cavalar, Margery “Pudgie”

RONAN — Margery “Pudgie” Peck Cavalar, 76, died Oct. 11, 2008, at St. Luke Hospital in Ronan of complications from surgery. She was born July 20, 1932, in Columbia Falls to Pearl and Asa Peck. She was number 12 of 14 children. Her older brothers gave her the nickname “Pudgie” for her pudgy nose as a young girl. She grew up in Columbia Falls and later moved to Polson with her family.

She married Richard Cavalar July 23, 1949. They just celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. They had four children, Marilyn (Ted Laine), Rick Cavalar (Marla), Steve Cavalar (Maureen), and Michelle (Arnie Hayes).

Pudgie was a fierce competitor, enjoying water skiing in her younger years as well as golf, bowling and bridge with her many friends. She was known for winning the “Price is Right” TV game show and numerous club championships in golf. She loved going to the casinos with Richard looking over her shoulder. She faced adversity saying, “I’m a tough old Bird.” She was a spirited person who loved her family and cared about her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, children, nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, brothers Jack, Ray, Tom and sisters Katie, Helen and Jacie and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her mother and father; brothers Chuck, Bud, Ed, and Frank; sisters Naomi, Virginia and Mary Lou preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to the Junior Golf League at the Whitefish Credit Union in Polson.

A vigil service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. in the church with Father James Connor officiating. Interment will follow at a later date. Condolences to the family may be left at www.groganfuneralhome.com.