Naoma Ruth Kalstad, beloved mother and grandmother, departed us to be with the Lord Oct. 27, 2011. Born to Oral Ray McCleery and Myrtle Agnes (Brydon) McCleery on July 12, 1923, Naoma grew up in Glasgow, Mont., graduating high school in 1941. She attended college at Northern Montana State, earning a degree in elementary education. Later she earned a B.S. in human services from the University of Idaho, aiding her dedicated service to veterans.

Naoma married the love of her life, Staff Sergeant Vern Kalstad, in 1943 at Kingman, Ariz. The couple returned to Montana, where Vern attended college in Bozeman. Vern and Naoma were married 50 years, working hard in partnership to build a better life for their four children.

Naoma is survived by her devoted children, Sharyn Turner, Janelle Stimson, Barbara Schultz, Michael Kalstad and their spouses. Her family extends to nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by sister, Lyola Haller and brother, James McCleery, both of Helena, Mont.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vern; sister Leota Hoye and brother Gerald McCleery.

Naoma's favorite hobby was antiques. She and Vern spent many years collecting and restoring them. She taught her children to value such relics as ties to rich family history, which she also studied in depth.

Naoma graced this Earth for 88 years, devoting herself to family, supporting her church and serving veterans in her community. She was a kind and loving soul, generous in spirit, and devoted to God. For her children and all who loved her, she is a treasure lost. But such a treasure cannot be bound to Earth forever. She has earned her place in heaven, and it is time we must let her go.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be sent to any Disabled American Veterans or American Legion Post.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 2011, at Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene Chapel. Please visit Naoma's memorial and sign her online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.