Grace J. Waldum, 82, of Kalispell passed away in her sleep Thursday, June 19, 2008, at her home in Kalispell.

Grace was born in Tintah, Minn., on Aug. 7, 1925, the daughter of Ed and Ida Matilda (Johnson) Krenz. She grew up on the family farm with her younger sister, Carol, and attended grade school through high school in Tintah. She graduated with a teaching degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn.

Her first teaching job brought her from the plains of Minnesota to the mountains in Livingston. At Concordia, she met Peder Waldum and they were married in 1950. Peder's first call to the Lutheran Ministry was in Rhame, N.D., and that is where their first child, Tommy, was born. They moved to Livingston in 1956, where their three daughters, Mary, Cathy and Beth, were born. They lived there until 1963, when they moved to Kalispell.

Grace was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran church for 45 years. She considered the church members to be part of her family. She was active in every aspect of the church community and faithfully remembered the church in her daily prayers. She was also a member of the Alpine Weavers and Spinners and volunteered her time in many ways. Grace enjoyed spending time outdoors - gardening, camping, and her morning walks with her dear friends.

Grace had a deep love for her family and friends, and was most happy when they were gathered around together at her kitchen table. Mom was all about making sure the cookie jar was full, and she was quick as could be with a cup of tea. She had a great zeal for life and for people. Her life embodied the name her parents gave her; she lived with grace toward her friends and all those who crossed her path. She overflowed with love and hospitality, and reminded everyone daily of life's marvelous gifts.

Grace was preceded in death by her son, Tommy; her husband, Peder; and her sister, Carol.

Grace is survived by three daughters and their husbands, Beth and Tim Love of Columbia Falls, Mary and Dave Dickson, and Cathy and Jim Semmelroth of Missoula; four grandchildren who were light of her life, Morgan and Gabe Love, and Rose and Rachel Dickson. Grace is also survived by several cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

A celebration of Grace's life will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Maasae Girls School in Tanzania or the Peder Waldum Continuing Education Memorial Fund - both in care of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 603 Main St., Kalispell, MT 59901. A reception will be afterward in the basement.

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