Alena Gostnell, 54

Alena Gay Gostnell, 54, of Columbia Falls passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 3, 2025. A living wake was held Nov. 1 and Nov. 2, among close friends and family.

Alena was born on Oct. 10, 1971, in Conrad to Michael Voorhies and Linda (Christman) Voorhies. After high school, Alena joined the Air Force and served as a cook/mortician. She spent many years dedicating herself to helping others and working with other veterans. 

In 2013, Alena went to college to get a master's degree in social work and became a licensed clinical social worker. She went on to work as a care coordinator for the Department of Veteran Affairs where she retired from in 2025. Alena dedicated her life to showing compassion and kindness to those around her, loving her family, and spreading joy and authenticity. 

Alena is survived by her husband Joe Gostnell, four children, Ashley Gostnell, Mathew Gostnell, Hannah (Gostnell) Stokes and Buck Stokes, her father Michael Voorhies, and her brother Cory Voorhies.

We will always remember the strong, independent woman that she was, and how she stood up for those who couldn’t stand for themselves. Her cape and tights have been hung up and retired, but we will always carry on her spirit in our lives.