Loretta Lillian “Claridge” Grosswiler, 78, peacefully passed away April 24, 2015.

She was born on Sept. 24, 1936, to Lyman H. and Lillian (Viano) Claridge. Loretta grew up and attended Flathead Valley schools.

On June 15, 1952, she married the love of her life, Richard Grosswiler, and was married to Richard for 60 wonderful years, during which time they raised four children.

Loretta was a super busy lady during her lifetime. In 1972 she was one of the top distributors in the Northwest for Ovation Cosmetics. Then in 1975, she was introduced to Fay Swafford Originals, a line of handbags, garment bags and accessories. She had booths at the Great Falls, Missoula and Kalispell fairs and again, she was one of the top distributors. She had a knack for being a great salesperson, and loved every minute. She could have sold snowballs to an Eskimo. Loretta started her own business in her home, selling handbags, clothing, jewelry and accessories, known as Loretta’s Dress Shop. Eventually, her business outgrew her home, and in 1998, she moved her business to Center Street in Kalispell until her retirement in 2006.

During her busy life, Loretta somehow found the time to be heavily involved in the Heart Fund Association. She and Richard belonged to the Eagles Club. Loretta also enjoyed bowling in league, and golfing, especially with Richard in the Friday night mixers at Buffalo Hill Golf Course. She loved working in her yard and always had beautiful flowers around her home.

Loretta was also very involved with her children’s, grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s many activities, including football, basketball, track and field, volleyball, baseball, band, orchestra, choir concerts, dance recitals and car racing. She and Richard were always there, sometimes juggling two or three activities the same day. Where did she get all that energy?

Loretta was a very special lady, who really cared about people and would do anything for them. She knew what she wanted and went after it. Loretta left a really great example of what life and love should be. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Loretta was preceded in death by her loving husband, Richard; her parents, Lyman and Lillian Claridge; grandson, Kevin E.Grosswiler; and granddaughter, Melissa D. Grosswiler.

Loretta is survived by son Brian, his wife Micki, their sons, Cody and Douglas Grosswiler; son Scott, his wife Carol, their daughters, Stacie and husband Jason Apple, Sarah and her husband Brent Card, and son Jake and his wife Rebecca Grosswiler; son Joe, his wife Dawn, their sons, Chris Arnold and his wife Katrina, Nolan, Jeremy and Kevin D. Grosswiler; daughter Lonita, her husband Jim Huston, their son Chris, his wife Desiree, son Jeff, daughter LeighAnn, and son Aaron. She is also survived by her sister, Lamona Meyers; and brother, Roger Claridge, and his wife, Deane. Along with her four children and 13 grandchildren, Loretta was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday April 30, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Loretta’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Loretta’s tribute wall.