Thelma S. Saunders

Thelma Ruth Scheffelmaer Saunders passed away in her home surrounded by loved ones, on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2014.

Thelma was born on Sept. 5, 1929, to Gotfried and Wilhemina (Velma) Albrecht Scheffelmaer in Valleytown. Her parents were immigrants, homesteaders from southern Russia. She graduated from high school in Saco and moved to Missoula to attend beauty college. She worked briefly at the Palace Hotel Salon.

She met and married the love of her life, Vernon D. Saunders, in 1949 in Missoula. Vern passed away Dec. 12, 2013. They were married for 64 years. They were a strong example of love and devotion to their children and their spouses.

Thelma was a homemaker and helped Vern with the family business, Saunders Equipment.

She raised her children to be kind, generous and loving people. Visitors were always welcome, the coffee was always on and a meal was ready to share. Home was the gathering spot for family and friends.

Thelma was a 30-year survivor of breast cancer. Cardiac bypass, valve surgery and Alzheimer's didn't slow her down. She had a strong German will, never giving in to pain or adversity. She was referred to as the "Energizer Bunny"; she just kept going. She finally ran out of power after losing her recharger, Vern.

Thelma is also preceded in death her husband; her parents; six brothers, William, Gilbert, Leo, Otto, Raymond and Wesley Scheffelmaer; and two sisters, Amanda Wulff and Martha Squires.

She is survived by her three children, Lynda (Byron) Jacobson, Verna (Mark) Denton and Larry (Marilyn) Saunders. She also is survived by 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; adopted daughter and devoted caregiver, Vickie Baier Kreis; family friends, Charles Robbins and Lex Herndon; and several neices and nephews.

Following her wishes, there will be no services. Thelma and Vern enjoyed their summers in Trout Creek. A celebration of Thelma and Vern's life and love will be held there in the summer.

Thank you to the staff of Partner's Hospice for their kindness and support.

We love you, Mom, and will miss your smile and quirky sense of humor
Read Thelma Saunders's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.