Ellington

Fatal vehicle crash north of St. Ignatius

ST. IGNATIUS — A single-vehicle crash north of St. Ignatius on Friday afternoon left one woman dead.

Mission boy returns home

POLSON — Isaiah Nasewytewa, the 10-year-old St. Ignatius boy who had been detained on $500,000 bail earlier this month, was released into his grandmother’s care last Thursday, after a ruling by Lake County District Court Judge Kim Christopher.

Vikings ready for worldly conquests

CHARLO — Above all else, the Vikings were discoverers - stumbling across North America centuries before Columbus. On Sunday, the newest graduating class of Charlo Vikings was encouraged to continue to foster that same sense of discovery, while also staying true to their Mission Valley roots.

Sampson, DiGiallonardo lead Polson at state

LAUREL – Another eventful season is in the books for the Polson track and field teams, as the boys finished 12th at the state championship meet in Laurel and the girls ranked 15th among Class A competitors.

'C' is for Champions

LAUREL – The Charlo boys track team spent the weekend giving credence to the saying that “good things come in threes,” storming past the competition to take their third-consecutive state title.

Olga Luella Syneva (Lou) Priddy Krantz Williams

Olga Luella Syneva (Lou) Priddy Krantz Williams, 79, of Ronan, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, at Heritage Place, of natural causes in the arms of her daughter. She was born October 9, 1933, in Dixon, to RW “Buster” Priddy and Mae Olson Priddy.  Lou grew up on the family ranch in Dixon, and was educated and graduated from Dixon School. On February 2, 1952, Lou married John F. Krantz and the couple lived in the Mission Valley, until ultimately settling in the Round Butte area.  After a divorce, she settled in Columbia Falls and Kalispell area for a time.  On October 18, 1981, Lou married Leslie Williams and they lived in the Pablo area until his death in 1988 when Lou moved to Ronan.  Lou worked at various bookkeeping jobs throughout her life and her last job was at the WalMart store in Polson. Lou was always on the move.  She loved to bowl, swim, garden, read and travel.  For years she enjoyed traveling to spend the winter in Florida with her daughter, Barbara and grandson, Gordon.   On one of her last trips to Florida, Lou drove cross country from Montana to Florida and stayed for 6 months and then drove back to Montana.  Lou was always ready for a traveling adventure. Survivors include: her children and siblings: one daughter, Barbara Markham of Florida; John (Mindy) Krantz; Mark Krantz of Ronan and Jay (LouAnne) Krantz of Polson.  She also leaves behind two grandsons: Gordon and Logan; six granddaughters:  Marki,  Addie,  Skyla,  Lanie,  Erin and Julie; also, six  great-grandchildren.  Siblings include: Edeline (Ted) Davis, Carrie Priddy, Ed (Charlotte) Priddy, Mike (Bunky) Priddy, Patti (Pat) Marmon. Funeral services were held on Monday, May 27 at the United Methodist Church at the top of Post Creek Hill with a reception following.  A graveside service was held at the City of Missoula Cemetery on Tuesday, May 28. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local charity. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com.

Beverly Ann Stokes

Beverly Ann Stokes, born on Nov. 18, 1943 in Missoula, passed away May 22 at home, surrounded by family and loved ones. She was a member of the CSKT Tribes. She bartended for 35 years and was a cook at numerous bars and grills. She loved being in the mountains, cutting Christmas trees and firewood, post and poles with friends. She spent a lot of time at her favorite place (Mission Dam) with her soulmate Dan Bisson. Every spring you could find them there. They enjoyed cruising the back roads almost every day. She loved wildflowers and animals which she took many pictures of as well as scenery, especially clouds and sunsets all over the reservation. They had many friends that would ride around with them enjoying the same things. She was preceded in death by: her parents, Cicely Ashley and Ronald (Blacky) Ingraham; her brother Walter Ingraham; and a daughter, Sheila Kay Stokes. She is survived by: her children, Donald Stokes of Forks, Wash., David Stokes (Klista) of Emmit, Idaho; stepdaughters Dani and Charity Bisson; grandchildren, Robert, Raeleen, Ryan, Tiera, Kyra, Ruben, and numerous great-grandkids. Viewing was held at the St. Ignatius Longhouse on Friday, May 24 through Monday, May 27. Rosary followed on Monday. Spiritual Leader ceremony was held Tuesday, burial followed at Ronan Cemetery.

Cheryl Lynn Kates

5/13/56-4/21/13 San Diego – Cheryl Lynn Kates, 56, of Clairemont and widow of Robert Kates, married for 23 years, passed away to join her loving husband in heaven.  She is survived by: two children, Joshua and Tera Kates; daughter in-law Megan Kates; and grandchild Renley June Kates. She was preceded in death by: her grandparents, Clarence and Mildred Folden; loving father, Delbert Folden; mother Nettie Armstrong; Aunt Lucella Armstrong, Uncle Norris Folden, Aunt Jeanette Violet, Uncle Leroy Folden, all of Montana. She is also survived by: her sister, Kathy Folden of Montana; two nephews, Eric of Utah and Judd of Kalispell; an uncle, Arnie of Ronan; two aunts; four cousins, Clint (Kim) of Arlee, and Kurt of Polson, Allen of Pennsylvania and Lonnie of Ronan, and four others as well as numerous extended grieving family and friends. She was a strong woman whose business acumen helped her husband build and manage a thriving family business for 22 years.  Through her hard shell, Cheryl was also known as a loving and caring soul with the warmest of hearts.  She enjoyed spending her free time away from the family business with her husband in Mexico where they owned a wonderful piece of property overlooking the Sea of Cortez.  Her warm and loving spirit will truly be missed, but she lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew, respected, honored and loved her. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 1 at 4661 Ruffner St., San Diego, Calif. 92111 at 2 p.m. A memorial service will be arranged back in Montana to be determined at a later time.

Jerry D. Paro

Born April 10, 1945 in Luke Field, Ariz. Moved to San Bernardino, Calif., then to Dayton. Jerry graduated from Polson High School and attended UM-Missoula. Jerry served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged from the Army. He worked for the National Park Service in Glacier, North Cascades, Yellowstone, Big Bend (Tex.), and Olympic National Parks, ending up again in Glacier. His duty stations included trails, law enforcement, computer operations, maintenance and campgrounds. Jerry was a man of many interests and talents including leather tooling, stained glass, building anything, sewing, and gardening/canning. He was an extraordinary cook. Jerry loved what life had to offer and made the most of the time he had with us. He will be sorely missed by the many whose lives he touched. Jerry was preceded in death by: his parents, Clyde and Pat Paro; and his sister, Judith Paro. He leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Nora Paro; his brother John and wife Cleora; and step-brother Clyde and wife Karen, plus relatives in the Flathead Valley, Michigan, California and Alaska. Jerry requested that there be no services. In fact, he was adamant. So think of him with your next beer or St. Brendan’s or keno bet. Buffalo Hills Mortuary is caring for the family. To send condolences to the family, please go to www.buffalohillfh.com.

Births

Purple reign finished by Frenchtown

BELGRADE — With an unprecedented fourth-straight Class A state title hanging in the balance, the Polson Lady Pirates softball team came just short of making history this weekend, falling 2-1 in a heartbreaking extra-innings championship game loss to archrival Frenchtown.

Alexander, Bell shine

BOZEMAN – Ronan/St. Ignatius seniors Paden Alexander and Jalen Bell stole the show at this weekend’s state championships in Bozeman, taking home two first-place medals apiece.

MAC takes fourth at state tourney

GREAT FALLS – The dust from the season has settled, and the Mission-Arlee-Charlo Bulldogs have emerged from the B-C state tournament as the fourth-best team in Montana.

Maidens fall to Florence in state championship

GREAT FALLS — For the second straight weekend, the rivalry between the Ronan Maidens and the Florence Falcons provided great theater for softball fans, as the teams battled for the Montana B-C state title Saturday in Great Falls. Despite having beaten the defending-champion Falcons in a divisional showdown just a week prior, the Maidens were unable to recapture the magic, falling 6-2 in the title game.

Ordinance to ban alcohol in Polson parks considered

POLSON — A new ordinance being considered for Polson parks would prohibit alcohol consumption in any park without a permit.

Among other things: "They call her 'Grandma'"

Nancy Hausermann first started organizing special projects for folks where she lived in Arkansas and Missouri 27 years ago when families were devastated when area mines were closed resulting in extensive areas of poverty and unemployment. While delivering Christmas toys and food baskets for miners’ families, an incident occurred that she says, was “a life-changing event for me.”

Law enforcement and court records - May 30

Arlee woman dies in crash

ARLEE — A 72-year-old Arlee woman is dead after a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 93 north of Arlee at about 2:45 p.m. last Friday.

The Mission Valley pays tribute

RONAN — Laverne Parrish didn’t think about his safety when he crawled into an open field while enemy fire rained down around him.

Memorial Day 2013

Photos from Memorial Day observances in the Valley.

Events for June 2013

Is a permit system a good compromise on where, when and if alcohol should be allowed in Polson's parks?

Commissioners to appoint Ronan library board June 4

RONAN — Letters of interest are being accepted for what will be only the state’s fourth library district.

Elmo man's death under investigation

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the suspicious death of an Elmo man, who died at Wild Horse Hot Springs late Saturday night.

Joseph Anthony Menicucci

Joseph Anthony Menicucci was born on March 3, 1948 to Louis and Virginia (LaFleur) Menicucci. He spent his school years in the Boy Scouts, playing baseball, serving as an altar boy, hunting and fishing with his brothers, and often creating chaos for his schoolteachers. He would pick fights with older students so his brother Alfred could beat them up; he would secretly listen to the World Series on a transistor radio during class; he managed to convince a group of young ladies to take notes for him in all of his classes because his handwriting was so bad; and, on one occasion, he ran away from school because he had already heard the story his first grade teacher was reading.  As everyone frantically searched for him, Joe watched calmly from his hiding spot on the roof of a neighboring house. In 1966, Joe graduated from Anaconda Central High School and went to work full-time, eventually settling in at Lutey’s Furniture Store. During a copper strike, Joe watched two squirrels play in the middle of one of the main streets of Anaconda for over a half hour and decided the time was right to go to college. Joe worked three jobs to put himself through college at Montana Tech, where he was an avid Oredigger fan and earned a B.A. in English in 1973. He was the instigator of the “Great Coffee Strike of ‘71” that ultimately forced administrators to return the price of a cup of coffee at the Tech Student Union to 10 cents after a significant price increase. Joe also often bemoaned the time he earned a 99% on a Montana History exam because, in his essay, he did not indicate that Marcus Daly was short of stature and had a moustache. Joe may or may not have been an integral member of an impromptu kazoo band that performed at Tech football games. In the summer following his graduation, Joe was watching a fire in Uptown Butte when he ran into a college friend, Kristine Williams. She suggested they go out on a date. He was obviously amenable, as the two were married on March 16 of the next year. At this time, Joe worked for KANA radio as an account executive and a sportscaster. Soon after, he was hired by the Anaconda Community Development Agency as a Rehabilitation Officer. In 1978, Kris gave birth to the couples’ only child, Joseph (Jr.). In 1981, Joe was hired by the Community Development Agency of Polson. He eventually became the Agency Director and the City Administrator. While in Polson, Joe also coached Joe Jr.’s little league team and founded the Little Big Men, a fantasy football team he brought with him to Belgrade in 1990 after accepting the position of City Manager. Joe absolutely loved Belgrade and was passionate about the economic development of the community. He was proud of many of the city’s accomplishments during his tenure as City Manager, but was especially proud, despite being a very liberal Democrat, that the City Hall on Thomas B. Quaw Square was built without using a single cent of taxpayer money. Joe also served on many boards and committees at both the local and state level: the Board of Directors of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) of District IX, the Board of Directors of the Montana Municipal Insurance Authority, the Montana Economic Development Advisory Council, and the Montana Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Advisory Committee, amongst many others. Joe was an avid New York Yankees fan who shared his passion with his wife, son, his daughter-in-law Penny, and generally anyone willing to listen or too polite to say they weren’t interested. Joe fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting Yankee Stadium, first on a stadium tour and later for a game at which he watched Derek Jeter pass Joe DiMaggio on the all-time Yankee hit list en route to an 8-3 Yankee victory over the rival Boston Red Sox. Joe was also a fan of the Montana Grizzlies and, especially, Montana State Bobcats. He maintained season tickets for Grizzly football in the late 1980s and for Bobcat football from 1990 to the present. Joe was also a Notre Dame football fan; he had the opportunity to see the Fighting Irish play on two occasions. Joe also loved woodworking but was the king of the unfinished project. One project he did finish, however, was Joe Jr.’s beloved “toy bus”. Joe loved listening to music of all types (at great volume) and never missed any of his son’s performances, especially with the Montana State University Studio Lab Jazz Band and the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra. Joseph Anthony Menicucci, 65, loving husband, father, brother, Godfather, uncle, friend, and civil servant, died in his wife’s arms on Thursday, May 16, due to complications resulting from sepsis. He is survived by: his wife, Kristine; son, Joseph Jr.; daughter-in-law, Penny Citrola; sister, Ann Marie Jette; great-aunt and Godmother, Ethel Ungaretti; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and Godchildren. He is preceded in death by: his parents, Louis and Virginia; his brothers Alfred and Louie; his sisters-in-law Jo Ellen Loch, Judy Williams, and Sue Menicucci; his nieces, Rebecca Menicucci-Foster, Theresa Anton (Rickert), and Sara Loch; and his best friend, Freddie Dayton. Visitation took place Wednesday, May 22 at Dahl Funeral Home at 300 Highland Boulevard in Bozeman from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. A rosary and Vigil service followed. A funeral mass will be held Thursday, May 23 at 11 a.m. at Holy Rosary Parish at 220 W. Main Street in Bozeman with a reception to follow. The service will be webcast for those who want to attend, but cannot. Interment will take place Friday, May 24 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Anaconda and will be followed by reception at the Copper Bowl. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider volunteering your time or making a donation to the program of your choice at the HRDC. The HRDC can be reached by phone at (406) 585-4890 or by email at thehrdc.org. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlcares.com.

Brenda Sue Smith

Brenda Sue Smith, 44, died May 7 in Ronan. She was the daughter of Katherine Greer of Ronan, and Kenny Smith of Oregon. She is survived by: a brother Billy Winters and wife Debra of Hamilton; two sons, Michael Simmons and wife Ginny of Minot, N.D., A.J. Lewis of Minot, N.D.; three grandchildren. She is also survived and loved by numerous other family members and close friends.

Adele Louise Walenciak

Adele Louise Walenciak, 78, of Polson, passed away on May 18, due to Pulmonary Fibrosis. She was born August 7, 1934 in Long Beach, Calif. to Hazel Vera Shields Leonard and James Robert Leonard.  She graduated high school at Santa Ana High and attended University of Montana. She was an accounting manager for the Pacifica Hospital and later a construction company.  After retirement she spent time researching genealogy and belonged to Temecula Valley Genealogy Club.  During this research she found several Patriots and became a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.  She was a founding member of the Kuilix Chapter in the Mission Valley.  She also spent her time gardening and was a member of the Mission Valley Garden Club. Adele was survived by: five children, Rolf Leonard Harmsen, Sheryl Lynn Harmsen, Sally Ann Harmsen Lemmon, Hal David Harmsen and Robin Lillian Walenciak Wallace (married to Aaron William Wallace); 15 grandchildren, Jennie Harmsen Belcourt, Kellen Harmsen, Emily Harmsen, Rolf Harmsen, Katie Harmsen, Lauren Winklepleck, Brooke Winklepleck,  Alden (Lenny) Lemmon, Jessica Lemmon, Houston Harmsen, Alexandra Harmsen, Delaney Harmsen, Robert Wallace, William Wallace, and Thomas Wallace; and five great-grandchildren. Viewing will take place Thursday, May 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Shrider-Thompson Funeral Service. Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 24, at 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Polson.  Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery.

Births

Polson wrestler dreams of Down Under

POLSON – As one of Montana’s premier wrestlers in his weight class, Polson junior Carlos Quinones is used to being at the top. This summer, though, Quinones’ goal is to head Down Under, where he has been invited to participate in a wrestling tournament in Auckland, New Zealand. However, in order for Quinones to attend the Down Under Sports Tournament, he will first need to raise a total of $5,000, and fast.

Home cookin'

Host Maidens prevail in Western B-C divisionals

RONAN – In an early hole against the defending state champion Florence Falcons, nobody would’ve held it against the young Ronan Maidens softball team if they faltered in the heat of the moment.

Fourth and goal

Seeking fourth consecutive title, Lady Pirates surge into state tournament after 21-1 regular season

POLSON – In what has become a rhythmic rite of spring, the three-time defending champion Polson Lady Pirates softball team is heading to the state tournament firing on all cylinders. As if this weekend’s 10-1 win over Libby followed by a 32-1 dismantling of Whitefish weren’t enough to strike fear into the hearts of Class A foes, head coach Larry Smith has more unwelcome news.

Fishy business

K. William Harvey students visit hatchery

The students spent the afternoon at the Jocko River Trout Hatchery, where they learned how the Arlee rainbow trout are bred, raised from eggs and dispersed to other hatcheries and waterways around the state.

Law enforcement and court records - May 23

Horseback riding proves a rough but fun ride

I have not ridden a horse in quite some time. It has probably been ten to 15 years since I awkwardly threw my leg over a saddle and put my life in the hands of an animal that is probably a little indignant about having to haul around 170 pounds of extra payload for the next three hours.

Kidnapping suspect released

POLSON — A woman who allegedly abducted a two-year-old girl over the weekend has been released from the Lake County Jail.

Lonnie Harris Smith

Lonnie Harris Smith, 71, of Ronan, passed away at St. Luke Community Hospital on May 7 in Ronan. Lonnie was born to Rob Roy and Fran Smith in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 10, 1941. He grew up in Box Elder, Mont. Lonnie graduated from Northern Montana College in 1964 with a BA in History with a minor in Art. A man very much defined by the place he lived, he especially enjoyed Montana history and creating pottery. He volunteered for service to our country in the Army National Guard and Reserves from January 1964 through December 1969. Lonnie Smith will be fondly remembered by the many people he touched throughout his life. He was a devoted husband and father and valued member of the community. Lonnie was most known as the Art teacher for Ronan High School, where he retired after 34 years of teaching and serving as a representative for the MEA and NEA. Lonnie “flunked” retirement, and went back to be involved with the school in the capacity of bus driver, during which time he hauled kids across mountains and through all weather to music and sports activities, in addition to the daily bus route. He was a constant presence in the Sacred Heart Parish through the Pastoral Council and Knights of Columbus. His open nature, ready smile, his generosity and willingness to help those around him have benefitted family, friends, students, church, his community and our country throughout the years. Lonnie was very involved in his passion for Model A Fords and will be missed by his fellow antique car club members. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and is survived by his best friend and wife of nearly 48 years, Marie; his three children, Kelly, Lea and Tim; and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, George Smith of Livingston and Cameron Smith of Great Falls. A reception was held at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall in Ronan on Friday, May 10, from 4:00-6:45 p.m., followed by Rosary vigil service at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ronan on Saturday, May 11, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service with military honors at the Ronan Cemetery under the direction of Shrider-Thompson Funeral and Cremation Services. Reception was held after the graveside service at the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Lonnie’s name.

Dora Jean “Jeannie” Gies-Swanson

Dora Jean “Jeannie” Gies-Swanson was fatally killed by a hit-and-run driver in Orlando, Fla., on Sunday, April 21. She made her home in Mead, Wash. A celebration of life Mass will take place at 11 a.m., June 17, at the St. Ignatius Catholic Church. A committal of Jeannie’s ashes will take place at the Catholic Cemetery in St. Ignatius under the direction of Foster Funeral Home & Crematory in St. Ignatius. A full obituary has been posted at acommunityfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Jeannie-Swanson/. Friends and family are encouraged to share a special memory or photo of Jeannie on this site. Condolences may be left fosterhfandcrematory.com.

Paul Brueggeman

May 12, 1950 – May 6, 2013 Paul Brueggeman, 62, of Polson, passed away on Monday, May 6, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center of multiple complications due to his decades-long struggle with diabetes. He was born in Polson on May 12, 1950 to Arthur and Melanie Brueggeman. Paul spent the majority of his life in Polson, where he was part of the Polson High School Class of 1968. His career included work as a water well driller and carpenter. Paul married Susan Manfredi in 1976 and they have one son, John. Paul enjoyed spending time in the outdoors hunting, wildlife viewing and gardening. His carpentry skills extended to his hobby of woodworking. Paul was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish of Polson and had a special place in his heart for Our Lady of Swan Valley Mission Church and the Sycamore Tree Retreat Center, both located in the Swan Valley. Survivors include his wife, Susan of Polson; and son, John of Polson; brothers, Mike (Jackie) Brueggeman of Spokane, Wash., Duaine (Wendy) Collins of Polson, Art Brueggeman of Pablo, Michael (Linda) Martin of Virginia; sisters, Anna Turney of Deer Park, Wash., Melanie Buckless of Polson, Margaret Arneson of Polson, Donna Collins of Deer Park, Wash., Jule Kenmille of Elmo, and Mary (Ray) Goudette of Spokane, Wash.; along with beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. Brothers Dan and Leo Brueggeman preceded him in death. Recitation of the Holy Rosary was held on Thursday, May 9. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, May 10. Both services were held at Immaculate Conception Church in Polson. Burial at the Lakeview Cemetery and a luncheon at the church followed the burial. Messages of condolences can be shared online at www.groganfuneralhome.com.

Evelyn Lucille Cole O'Connor

May 12, 1923 - April 28, 2013 – Evelyn  was born in Charlo on May 12, 1923 to Ralph Chapman Cole and Violet Josephine McPheeters. Her family later moved to Pablo where she attended grade school, and then high school in Ronan. She married Earl O’Connor on Feb .9, 1942. In 1942 Evelyn and her sister Dorothy moved to Seattle while her husband Earl served in the Army. While there they both worked at Boeing Aircraft. Because of her small stature, Evelyn was given the job of crawling into the wings of the airplanes and doing the riveting, where she was known as a “Rosie the Riveter.” After Earl was discharged from the Army they moved to Missoula, where they lived for the rest of their lives and raised three children. Earl worked at Northern Pacific Railway, and Evelyn was a “stay at home” mom. She and her husband loved to go dancing every chance they got.  She worked briefly at The Mercantile department store, where she did clothing alterations, and was a great seamstress, as evidenced by the fact that she made her daughter Lynn’s wedding dress. They were long-time members of the Good Sam Camping Club, and also loved their time spent camping in Glacier Park.  They were members of the First United Methodist Church and were also very active in The American Legion locally, of which Evelyn was once president.  They were also regulars at both the Missoula and Arlee senior centers. Evelyn was preceded in death by: her husband, Earl; her parents, Ralph and Violet; and four brothers, Robert George Cole, Ralph Ellis “Curly” Cole, Arthur Chapman Cole and Charles Prentice “Chuck” Cole. She is survived by: three siblings, Dorothy Cole (Bert) Palmer of Corvallis, Ore., James Jefferson (Lora Houle) Cole of Polson, and Frank Wallace (Helen Palmer) Cole of Missoula.  She is also survived by three children: daughter, Lynn Marie O’Connor Fairbanks of Tekoa, Wash.; and sons, Larry Earl O’Connor and Kurt Alan O’Connor, both of Missoula.  She has two grandchildren:  granddaughter Lisa Marie (Mike) Rossi and their three children, Alexander Giovanni Rossi, age 12, and twins Isabella Faith Rossi and Sophia Marie Rossi, age 8, of Spokane, Wash., and grandson Christopher James Fairbanks of Marina del Rey, Calif.; as well as many nieces and nephews and their families. Evelyn had a great sense of humor and was loved by everyone who knew her.  She spent her last three years at Rosetta Alzheimer’s Care Center, where she was loved by everyone there, and especially her caregiver Katelyn Miller. Funeral service was held on Friday, May 3, at Garden City Funeral Home, Missoula. Interment followed at Western Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery at 1911 Tower Street, Missoula.  Then everyone was invited to attend the reception and lunch back at Garden City Funeral Home.

H. Daniel Emerson

Dan was born in Portland, Ore., January 29, 1942 to Harry and Violet Emerson.  He passed away in Sun City, Ariz., on May 1 of natural causes.  He is survived by: his wife of 51 years, Kathryn; three children, Teresa (Dave) Lynch, Jeanne (Mike) Dennison, Wade (Joanne) Emerson; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one half-brother, Larry Brown. Dan was raised in the Portland area.  He has lived and worked in Alaska, Wyoming and Montana.  He has had several occupations, including mining, ranching, building construction and farming.  Dan served on the joint board (FJBC) as a water commissioner for many years. With his generosity, he was willing to help anyone who needed help.  He kept everyone laughing with his quick wit and sense of humor.  He always had a joke for every occasion.  Dan had a high standard for living and working in which he expected others to follow suit.  His famous last words were, “did you hear one about ... .” The memorial service will be held at Terrace Lake Community, 35663 Terrace Lake Road, Ronan, at 11 a.m. Friday, May 10, with a graveside observance and meal following at the church.

Glenn Murphy

Glenn Murphy, 87, of St. Ignatius, passed away March 27 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Ronan with his granddaughter by his side.  Glenn was born July 12, 1925 in Hardisty, Alberta, to William and Theresa Murphy.  He was the youngest of seven children.  He married his wife, Patricia Walker, on Nov. 23, 1959 at Fort Macleod in Alberta, Canada.  She survives. Also surviving him are his three children, Terrance, Wanda and Ron; nine grandchildren, Tiffani, Jeremy, Walker, Hunter, Christian, Debby, Michael, Alison and Christina; four great-grandchildren, Addessa, Jordan, Logan and Cameron; and several cousins. Glenn was a long-time resident of the Mission Valley.  He and his wife started ranching on East Post Creek in 1961, after he had worked for the railroad, DOT and the experimental station.  He also served in World War II, stationed in Okinawa. Glenn had a passion for the outdoors.  He spent his younger years with a pioneer family, fishing, hunting and trapping. He also spent a lot of time playing music, mostly with a guitar.  His favorite time of year was the spring, when all the new baby calves were born.  You could always find him either cooking his famous sourdough pancakes for family and friends, or out in the fields doing what he loved. He was active with 4-H, creating the livestock auction with his wife.  He also was on the joint county board of control for irrigation and part of the crime stoppers organization.  To all he will be remembered as a light hearted practical joker, a family man, a respected member of the community, and a trustworthy friend. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on May 11 at the Catholic Cemetery in Mission.  The potluck memorial will be held later this summer on July 2 at Leon Hall in Charlo, due to the family being in town for a reunion.  Condolences may be left at fosterfhandcrematory.com.

On a mission

ST. IGNATIUS — Three Mission girls and the boys team are headed to the state tennis tournament this week in Missoula.

MAC hits Maidens hard

Both Lake County teams earn first round bye in divisional tournament

ST. IGNATIUS – The Ronan Maidens visited Mission last Tuesday looking to draw their season series even with Mission-Arlee-Charlo and spoil the Lady Bulldogs’ senior night and home game finale.

DiGiallonardo, Sampson power Pirates at ABC meet

POLSON - At the Polson ABC meet held Saturday, the host Pirates received standout performances from a familiar cast of  individuals – led by Anna DiGiallonardo and Riley Sampson, who took first place in a combined five events. DiGiallonardo’s heroics helped carry the girls team to 76 points and a distant second place finish at the meet, as Corvallis left the competition in the dust with a staggering 227 points total. Meanwhile, Sampson and the boys squad finished fifth out of eight teams.

Growing Pains

Mariners still searching for last year's magic

POLSON — It was a busy weekend for the Mission Valley Mariners, as shortly after wrangling 60 enthusiastic little leaguers during their instructional baseball camp, the squad had to summon the wherewithal to play three games against the Kalispell Lakers. After suffering a pair of lopsided setbacks on Saturday, Mission Valley was able to salvage the weekend by grinding out a 2-1 Mother’s Day victory.

Charlo rehires 3 teachers

CHARLO — Budget cuts facing the Charlo School District will not be as severe as originally feared. Initially facing he grim possibility of cutting teaching positions, recent developments have allowed the district to retain three of those posts. However, fiscal shortcomings will still require that they eliminate a half-time special education position that served both the middle school and high school.According to district superintendent Thom Peck, a variety of factors came together to save the jobs from the chopping block.

Polson retains teachers

POLSON — Polson schools’ budget is in the black, despite a drop of about $65,000 in the high school portion.

Ronan keeps teachers, cuts budget $712K

RONAN — Despite a deficit of more than $1 million dollars, no Ronan School District teachers will lose jobs.

Moderate fire season ahead

IRVINE FLATS — Recent dry, hot weather and lightening combined for a firey Friday last week.

Senior news - May 16

Births

History comes to life at Fort Connah Rendezvous

ST. IGNATIUS — Though it sits within plain view of one of the busiest roads in the state, for many residents of western Montana, historic Fort Connah remains a well-kept secret. However, events such as last weekend’s twice-annual rendezvous are helping the old fur trading post shed its under-the-radar reputation, one enthusiastic visitor at a time.

Holding serve

Boys sweep weekend duals, honor late coach Dubuque

POLSON – The Lady Pirates’ heartbreaking 5-2 dual loss to Whitefish last week couldn’t disrupt the success Polson tennis had this week. The Polson boys were undefeated, and, despite a slight setback, the girls played strong, going 2-1 over the week.

Polson man pleads guilty to charges from unruly arrest

POLSON — In Lake County District Court last week, Brandon Ferguson, 19, of Polson pled guilty to an assortment of amended offenses, including multiple counts of assault with bodily fluid, stemming from his eventful arrest in January. Upon admitting to the crimes, Ferguson was subsequently released from the Lake County Jail and ordered to report to the Probation and Parole Office. His sentencing has been slated for June 6.

Will the newly approved Ronan City Library District be worth the cost to tax payers?

Wildlife meeting May 15

The Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board will meet 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at the Polson City Library.  At the meeting, the board will discuss pheasant and gray partridge seasons and CSKT accomplishments over the past year under the state/tribal agreement. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting.  The full agenda is listed below:

Planning board memeber sought

Lake County is searching for a volunteer for the Lake County Board of Adjustment. The Board of Adjustment is comprised of five volunteers who hear and decide zoning-related issues, such as conditional land uses, variance requests and citizen appeals. Board members work closely with Lake County Planning Department staff and have the opportunity to interpret and apply zoning regulations to make them work for Lake County citizens. The board usually meets at 4 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the Lake County Courthouse in Polson. Meetings generally last between one and three hours.  

Community Calendar - May 9

Letters to the editor - May 9

Kids attend ag day

IRVINE FLATS — Roughly 300 northern Lake County students took part in the Fourth Grade Days last Thursday and Friday.

Polson shows perseverance

Lady Pirates win another one-run game

FRENCHTOWN – For as many games as the Lady Pirates win in five innings via the 10-run rule, they sure do look comfortable playing in close contests. 

Sears Hometown comes to downtown Polson

POLSON — The new Sears Hometown Outlet Store in Polson will offer both a diverse inventory and personalized service.

Cherry Valley lock down highlights safety protocols

Suspicious man causes concern, threat unwarranted

POLSON — Cherry Valley Elementary School was under an external lock down for about an hour last Wednesday after a report of a suspicious male wearing a tactical vest, but with no visible weapons, in the area.

Something fishy

No matter which side of the story you believe, the controversial catch of the biggest fish in Montana history still stands as the ultimate fishing tale

POLSON — Most serious discussions about the Flathead Lake Monster – or any of the world’s lake monsters, for that matter – will inevitably touch upon a common scapegoat:

Terrific track at Top 10

Opening day

The Mission Valley Mariners manage a split against Belgrade

POLSON – Opening day for the Mission Valley Mariners resembled the mountains of Montana – it had its share of peaks and valleys. However, the Mariners did manage a split against a quality opponent in Belgrade Sunday, and acquired much needed intelligence about their new and young Mission Valley baseball team.

No election for Polson library district

POLSON — Despite saying so on mail-in ballots, the North Lake County Public Library District election is not contested.

Medieval lessons

Linderman Elementary fourth graders act out fuedal kingdom roles with feast, tournament

POLSON — Medieval lords and ladies, knights and peasants roamed the halls of Linderman Elementary School last Friday.