Betty Lou Smith

Betty Lou Smith, 67, of Columbia Falls, died Aug. 5, 2007, at the Colonial Manor in Whitefish, after a long brave battle with Alzheimer’s.

Betty was born Aug. 28, 1939, to Goldie Emma and Lyle Averial Chapman in Columbia Falls, where she was raised and educated.

In 1958, she married Leo Franklin Smith, of Columbia Falls, where they raised their four children and resided until illness made it necessary for them to be cared for at the Colonial Manor.

Betty was a devoted and dedicated wife and mother. She had a merry spirit within her generous and serving heart. Her family was formed by watching her live as well the many lives she so unselfishly touched.

Betty enjoyed being with her family above all, as well as gardening, camping, fishing and being outdoors. Betty spent many years picking huckleberries beside Leo as well as her children. She was known for her Betty’s Huckleberry Pie. Betty enjoyed sitting with Leo on their deck watching the hummingbirds they attracted with their secret recipe for hummingbird food.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Leo; her parents Lyle and Goldie Chapman; mother and father-in-law Helen and Frank Smith; brothers-in-law Richard “Dick” Lindsley and Robert “Bob” Smith and wife Barbara; and nephew Michael Smith.

Betty is survived by her children Sherry Burchett and husband Gary, of Great Falls, Tami Sue Smith, of Kalispell, Terry Smith and wife Taryn, of Columbia Falls, and Tony Smith, of Rapid City, S.D.; sister Delores “Laverne” Lindsley, at Colonial Manor; brother-in-law William “Bill” Smith and wife Linda, of Marion; granddaughters Laci Smith, BriAnna Bukoskey and Betsy Bukoskey, of Kalispell, and Jordan Smith and Sydney Smith, of Rapid City, S.D.; grandsons Levi Smith and wife Karen, of Helena, Jayme Bukoskey, of Kalispell, and Trevor Smith, of Rapid City, S.D.; great grandson Braden Winterburn-Smith, of Helena; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service was held Aug. 9, 2007, at the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls, with Rev. David Merkel officiating. Burial followed at Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia Falls.

The family has suggested that memorials be made to the Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell MT 59901.