Mary Jean Baril, 98

Mary Jean Baril, 98, passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2025, at Logan Health Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was born on July 19, 1926, in Eureka, Montana, to John and Minnie Livengood. Mary had one brother and three sisters, all of whom preceded her in death. 

Mary grew up and attended school in Eureka. After graduating from Lincoln County High School in May 1944, she worked at the Port of Embarkation in Seattle during World War II. 

In June 1946, she married Bud Beagle. Together they had 3 children – Karan, Ron and Connie. They later divorced.

In October 1956, Mary and Charles Baril were wed. They resided in Columbia Falls and had two more children – Denise and Judy. Mary was a stay-at-home mom for several years. Later, she worked for Columbia Falls Aluminum Company/ARCO until she retired in 1985.

Mary attended the Columbia Falls United Methodist Church, where she was active in the United Methodist Women and was also a part of Beulah Circle. She cultivated many lifelong friendships in the church.

Most of all, Mary was a quietly content person. She loved her family, her friends, and her neighborhood. She was always welcoming and happy to see visitors. She was also an avid reader, a seamstress and a fabulous cook.

In 2022, Mary moved into Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell after living in the same home and neighborhood for nearly 70 years.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Charles in 1996, and her great-grandson, Ayden Erickson in 2022. 

She is survived by her children – Karan LaValley, Ron Beagle (Lynne), Connie Martin, Denise Erickson (Randy), and Judy Bond (Mark); 16 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandson.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 19th at 1 p.m., at the Columbia Falls United Methodist Church. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Columbia Falls United Methodist Church, the Columbia Falls Food Bank, or the donor’s preference.