Iris Hawkins, 95, a lifetime resident of the Proctor Valley, passed away peacefully Monday, April 14, 2008, at St. Luke's Extended Care Facility in Ronan, after a brief stay. Iris was born June 13, 1912, in Kalispell, the daughter of H.H. Smith and Sadie S. (Parsons) Smith.

After her formal education, she attended college in Dillon and Missoula. After receiving her teaching certificate, she taught school in Dayton.

In 1937, she married Donald H. Hawkins and began a long life as a homemaker; doing community service, school and school activities were her priorities. She was clerk of the school board for many years. She was always there for anyone needing a helping hand.

Her good nature and jovial manner will long be remembered.

Handcrafting was one of her favorite pastimes, and she was a longtime member of the Proctor Ladies Aid.

Iris was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; and three brothers, Monty (died in infancy), Harry and Loyal.

She is survived by her son, Delbert, and wife, Rita, of Dayton; a daughter, Cleora Paro, and husband, John, of Kingsley, Mich.; and grandchildren, Bradley, Doug, Steve and wife, Karolina, Lynette and husband, Tom, and Brian.

Funeral services for Iris will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 18, with the Rev. Dave Anson of the Flathead Parish of the Presbyterian Church officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. today, April 17, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Burial will be after services at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.

The family suggests memorials sent in memory of Iris be given to the Pine Haven Christian Children's Ranch, P.O. Box 940, St. Ignatius, MT 59865-0940.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Iris's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Iris's guest book.