Matthew Lewis "Matt" Whaley

Matthew "Matt" Lewis Whaley, 88, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2007, in the watchful hands of the caring staff at the Springs Assisted Living and Partners Hospice.

Matt, known as Lewis in his younger years, was born July 17, 1919, in the Thornton Hospital on South Third Street West in Missoula to Matthew Lewis Sr. and Hazel Whaley.

In his youth, he lived in Missoula and spent a good part of his summers working and roaming his Uncle Fred's ranch near Stevensville, now the home of the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. He graduated from Missoula County High School in 1938. Following graduation, he worked for Eddy Bakery, Brack Motor Supply and as a gandy dancer for the railroad. He joined the Army Air Corps November 1942, and after training was stationed at Wright Field, Ohio, working as a navigation technician.

On Oct. 10, 1943, he met Eloise Reichenberger, the love of his life and wife of 60 years, at a picnic at Brian State Park.

Matt took Eloise as his wife Feb. 1, 1947, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Dayton. After a honeymoon in New York City and Niagara Falls, they moved to Kalispell, where Matt sold fuller brush until beinging recruited by the Electrolux Corporation, as a salesman. Matt's gift of gab and his dedication to service allowed him to build a loyal customer base in the Flathead Valley and the greater Missoula area after his relocation to Missoula in 1952.

Matt was a dedicated and caring father to his two children, Elaine, born in 1952, and Jim, born in 1953. His devotion to his wife and family was an inspiration to many.

Matt was gregarious and enjoyed people. He was active in the Elks Hellgate Lodge from 1959, a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Sons and Daughters of Montana Pioneers, and a member of Saint Anthony's Church, where he ushered for many years. He and Eloise participated in a multitude of bridge marathons and parties and participated in events at the Senior Citizens Center. Matt enjoyed being active. He hunted and fished throughout western Montana, was an avid golfer and played many seasons with the Geritol League. He was a founding member of the Mall Walkers. Both he and Eloise delivered Meals-on-Wheels for many years.

Survivors include his wife, Eloise; daughter, Elaine Kennett (Bob) of Missoula and children Michael, Brian (Kristi) and Sarah; son, Jim (Janet Brooke) of Helena and children, Christopher, Justin and Basil. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Fran McConkey, Ann Kok and Sister Mary Gabriel Whaley.

Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 14, at Garden City Funeral Home. A rosary was also recited Friday evening in the third floor chapel in The Springs, 3710 American Way. Mass of the Resurrection will be at 11 a.m. today, Dec. 15, at Saint Anthony Church with a reception to follow. Internment will be at 2:30 p.m. at Saint Mary's Cemetery.

The family suggests memorials to Food for the Poor, 1400 Gerald Ave., or a charity of the donor's choice.

Express condolences at www.legacy.com/HelenaIR.