Gary Morin

Gary Alan Morin, 61, devoted father, partner and friend, passed away June 9, 2006, surrounded by his loved ones after a long and courageous battle with colon cancer. Throughout this journey, his hope and character remained steadfast and strong.

Gary was born June 23, 1944, in Great Falls. He graduated from Whitefish High School in 1962. He received a master's in education in 1973 and a doctorate in 1974. He taught elementary school in Polson and Bonner, was the elementary principal in Nashua and was superintendent of Fort-Shaw/Simms schools.

Gary later became a sales representative for both the Jostens and Balfour companies and then built several successful businesses, including North Central Gaming in the 1980s and lastly Double G Engraving and Awards.

Gary was proud of his family, a great fan of the Griz and emanated strength and confidence in all he did. He was a true leader in all aspects of his life. He especially loved spending his free time playing golf and relaxing at his condo in Bigfork with Teresa, his true soul mate.

He was preceded in death by his parents W.F. "Biff" and Bessie Morin, of Great Falls.

He is survived by his life partner and best friend Teresa Laird, of Post Falls, Idaho; his daughters Lisa Wilkinson, and husband Bill, of Helena, Michelle Crowe, and husband Tim, of Helena, Jenna Stevens, and husband Kelly, of Great Falls; Teresa's son Jeff Sandnes and parents Ernest and Hazelle Hendrickson, of Ellensburg, Wash.; sister Carlene Glasoe, and husband Leonard, of Great Falls; brother Jim Morin, and wife Lynda, of Great Falls; grandchildren Austin and Quinn Hyndman, Caden and Cale Crowe, of Helena, and Justin and Devin Sanchez and Bryce Stevens, of Great Falls; and numerous nephews and nieces.

A celebration of Gary's life will be held Thursday (today), June 15, 2006, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Great Falls. Interment will be at Highland Cemetery with a reception immediately following at the Meadow Lark Country Club.

Donations in lieu of flowers are suggested to Schnider Funeral Home, of Great Falls, on behalf of Gary Morin to benefit cancer research.