On Dec. 13, 2024, after a long battle with cancer, Lana Sue Managhan, 61, passed away quietly at her home in Troy surrounded by family and friends. 

She is survived by an extensive and an extended family including husband Gary Managhan; prior husband Mark Kelso; four sons Mike Kelso (Agrisia) of Troy, Steve Kelso (Heather) of Mountain Home, Idaho, twins Kevin and Paul Kelso of Troy; four step-daughters Marcy Pacheco (Matt) of Spokane, Washington, Amy Alexander of Libby, Kari Dreisbach (Chad) of Covington, Washington, Staci Schelmerdine of Troy; brothers Ed Croucher (Chris) of Libby, Charlie Croucher (Lois) of Libby, Bob Croucher (Cheri) of Troy, and Bret Croucher (Becky) of Libby; 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. 

Lana was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Joan Croucher; brother Steve Croucher; and sister Brenda Moderie.

Lana was born in Libby in 1963 and resided her entire life in the Kootenai Valley. She first lived on a small ranch 30 miles north of Libby. Then in 1968, with the preparation for construction of the Libby Dam, her family relocated to Troy where she remained for the rest of her life. Over the years, Lana worked in many of the local restaurants. She was well known for her friendly demeanor and developed many friends. 

Lana loved to cook and entertain at home with friends and family. There are many happy memories of those fun times. She enjoyed gardening, landscaping and carpentry. Many results of her skills are in evidence at the family home on Lake Creek.

For the last several years Gary and Lana have provided a home and parenting for granddaughters Kira and Kaylee Kelso. Lana’s death is an extreme event in their lives. They offer the following tributes:

Kaylee: “Grandma was a joy to talk to and she always provided advice and guidance in a calm, comforting way without judgement or harsh criticism. She celebrated life with energy and optimism.”

Kira wrote the following poem: “I am gone to a new place, but I haven’t disappeared; I am in the wind, the ripple of water, the soil under your foot; I am the sky far, far above, watching for what all of you will become.”

The family expresses sincere gratitude and appreciation for the loving care provided to Lana by Cabinet Peaks Medical Center, Libby Care Center, Hospice, and Home Healthcare personnel. 

Per Lana’s request there will be no funeral or memorial services. The family will have a celebration of life at the family home next spring. Lana is loved by many and will be missed by all. 

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.