Marsha Frey, 79

Marsha Joy McDonald Frey, “Ms. Frey” to all her students, at age 79 passed away in her home in St Ignatius on Dec. 24, 2024.

Marsha was born Feb. 5, 1945, in St Ignatius to parents Viola Peone McDonald and Walter McDonald. She was the great-granddaughter of Angus McDonald and a proud member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Marsha was raised near Fort Connah, moving to the family ranch on the hill near McDonald Lake at age 4. She went to school and graduated in 1963 from St Ignatius.

She started college at Carroll College and finished at the University of Montana in 1967 with a B.S in elementary education. Marsha married Raymond Frey in September 1966. They later divorced but remained friends to raise their daughter and grandchildren.

She taught fifth grade in Arlee in for one year and then took time off to have Colleen. They both started in St. Ignatius the fall of 1974. Marsha started teaching sixth grade for one year then on to fourth grade the remainder of her 36 years.

She also taught Title 1 one year with Colleen. She loved having Colleen as a teaching partner.

Marsha loved gardening and sitting outside enjoying the sun. Her pets were very important to her and she took any stray that came her way.

She also enjoyed following her grandkids to all of their sports and activities. Marsha loved traveling with her family. They had many Disney adventures as well as visiting Europe, Mexico and Canada.

She is preceded in death by her mom and dad as well as many special cousins and relatives. Marsha is survived by her daughter, Colleen Rae Frey (Art Bourdon); grandchildren Makenna Cordier (Nicole Patenaude) and Hunter Cordier; special great-grandson whom she dearly loved, Crue McDonald; her dog, Barney, and her four spoiled cats; and all her many cousins and relatives.

Special thanks to CSKT Elders program and her caregiver, Tonya Appelt. All memorials and donations may be given to any animal charity or St. Ignatius Schools.

Please remember to spread “joy” in honor of Marsha Joy!