Margaret Welty, 87

Margaret Laverne Dowty Welty, age 87, passed away peacefully April 26, 2024, in Polson. Born in Great Falls, Margaret was a cherished mother, grandmother, and a friend celebrated for her grace and compassion.

Margaret is lovingly remembered by her children, Daniel, Donald and Amy Welty, and her sister, Patty, and was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Harold Welty, and her parents, Robert and Loretta Dowty. Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

As a child, Margaret moved with her family to Everett, Wash., and graduated from Everett High School in 1954. She began her career at Alaska Airlines, working with early IBM computer reservation systems.

In 1959, Margaret married Howard Welty and soon discovered her true calling as a homemaker, a role she embraced with love and dedication.

After raising her children, she and Howard opened and managed two successful taverns in Everett and Arlington. In 1993, they sold the taverns and moved to their beloved Polson, where they built a rich relationship with the wonderful people of Lake County.

This move back to her childhood state was transformative for Margaret, and her later years with Howard in Montana were truly golden. Reunited with her Catholic upbringing in Polson, Margaret became a dedicated parishioner at Immaculate Conception Church. Her faith and the church became her spiritual guides, enriching her life with peace and purpose.

Margaret's life philosophy was to treat others with the respect and kindness she wished for herself, a lesson she lived out daily through actions rather than words. Her empathetic listening and inquisitive nature made it easy to connect with others.

Margaret's gentle spirit and enduring warmth have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a beacon of grace, kindness and faith.

A vigil was held April 30 from 6-8 p.m. at The Lake Funeral Home, 101 6th Ave. East, Polson. Her funeral service will take place at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1002 4th Ave. East, Polson, on May 1 at 10:30 a.m. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.