Evelyn Teresa Gaspar

Evelyn Teresa (Landaker) Gaspar, 101, passed at the home of her daughter on Monday, May 5, 2014, surrounded by family members, including her favorite cat guardian, Fluffy.

Rosary services will be said Wednesday, May 7, at 4:30 p.m., at Hillcrest Lawn Chapel with visitation to follow until 7 p.m. Funeral liturgy will be Thursday, May 8, at 11 p.m., at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Interment will take place on Friday, May 9, at 1 p.m. at Hillview Cemetery in Hinsdale. O'Connor Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

She (Evie to family in North Dakota) was born April 4, 1913, in Plaza, N.D., to Ameila and Samuel Landaker. Her formative years were spent in Parshall with her parents, brother Clem and relatives, with whom she always managed to have a bit of fun, especially riding in a jalopy to dances in nearby towns.

Following graduation from high school, she attended Minot Teachers College with the intention of imparting her love of words and language to others. However, the advent of World War II took her to Montana, seeking work. In Hinsdale, she met and married Bernard Gaspar, an affable and agreeable companion. As they raised six children and worked the family grocery store, she was exceedingly busy on both fronts; working what seemed 24/7. She always said, "Never go to bed cold or hungry" and she made sure of both for all, each evening. Retirement with Bernard was short, as he preceded her in death in 1983.

She was a member of St. Albert Catholic Church and Altar Society in Hinsdale. She lived the last 20 years in Great Falls and attended church at Blessed Sacrament.

She enjoyed a host of activities throughout her life, including reading, quilt-making, sewing, music and cross-word puzzles. She had an abiding and tender spot for animals, children and a penchant for flowers. She said she hated cold weather, but truth be known, she couldn't wait to plant, watch her flowers bloom and simply enjoy their beauty. A favorite pastime was riding in the car, whether to view a sunset or catch a thunderstorm, with glorious lightning. An often heard request was, "Let's get out of the house and go for a ride."

She was good-natured, kind in spirit and known for her quick wit and convivial sense of humor. These qualities rendered her a good friend to many and a supportive, loving wife and mom to her brood of six.

Survivors include children, Joseph and his wife, Joanie, Jeanette, Ceil, Kathleen, Stephen and Margaret Kay; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Donations may be made in Evelyn's memory to St. Albert Church of Hinsdale or a favorite charity.

Condolences may be left online at http://www.oconnorfuneralhome.com.