Elaine Hoagland

Elaine Z. Hoagland, 56, passed away Oct. 21, 2006, at her home in Kalispell.

She was born Jan. 14, 1950, in Jersey City, N.J., to Joseph and Sophie (Suprynowicz) Zabonhonski.

Elaine received her early education graduating from North Arlington High School in 1967. She then attended Rutgers University, where she received her bachelor's. School was very important to Elaine, and she went on to finish her master's in environmental science at the University of Connecticut. She graduated with honors.

Elaine married Michael Hoagland in Watchung, N.J., on May 27, 1972, and moved to the Flathead Valley that same year. Michael passed away in 1986. She worked for the Columbia Falls aluminum plant for 19 years before switching careers and becoming an investment representative for Edward Jones.

Elaine enjoyed traveling, especially to exotic places. She enjoyed movies with her family and friends, writing, reading and church. She was a longtime volunteer for Compassion International and was a member of Soroptimist when she lived in Riverton, Wyo.

Elaine was an inspiration to all who knew her. She loved the Lord and wanted people to share with her His wonderful love. Her children were her priority.

She gave them so much love and everything they could ever need. She is a hero to many and will be missed by all her family and many friends throughout the country.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Michael Coldren Hoagland.

She is survived by son Joe Hoagland and wife Sarah, of Moorehead, Minn.; daughter Jennifer Hoagland and husband Ryan Nelson, of Kalispell; stepson John Hoagland and his four children, Paula, Jacki, Michael and Chris; and many cousins and relatives in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Funeral services for Elaine were held at faith Free Lutheran Church on Oct. 26, 2006, with Pastor Steve Snipstead officiating. Burial followed at the Bigfork Community Cemetery.