Marjorie 'Marj' Pankratz

Marj passed away peacefully in her home, in her favorite chair on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. She was 93 years old.

Marjorie Ann Peters was born Jan. 25, 1930, in Wolf Point, Mont., to Aaron and Ann (Neufeld) Peters. She had only one sibling, sister Priscilla. Marj grew up in Frazer, Mont., until 1940 when her family moved to Emmett, Idaho, to own and manage a Gambles store. In 1944 they returned to Montana and purchased a wheat farm in Larslan, Mont. At one time, the family also lived in California.

Marj graduated from Glasgow High School in 1948. Ten days later, on June 2, 1948, she married the love of her life Richard "Dick" Pankratz. Mom and Dad raised seven children, six boys and one girl. They embarked on many endeavors including owning two Conoco stations, and they also built and owned Hi-Line Tire Shop. Marj had a beautiful voice and was well known around Glasgow, Mont., for her frequent appearances as a local vocalist. In 1964, Marj joined Dick in pursuing his lifelong dream of purchasing a farm/ranch south of Malta in Regina, Mont. They loved raising their family out on the ranch until 1980, when they moved closer to Malta.

After Dick passed away in 2001, Marj decided to move into town. She took pride in having an immaculate yard, filled with many beautiful flowers. She was an active member of the community, as well as in her church. She loved meeting her friends for coffee and lunch and attending her grandchildren's various sporting events. She was known around town by everyone as "Gramma Marj." Even her license plates said "Gram Marj." She has been an amazing role model for her entire family. We have all been blessed to call her mother, grandmother, and friend.

Marj is preceded in death by her beloved husband Dick; her parents Aaron and Ann Peters; her sister Priscilla Sanden; and her grandson David Pankratz.

She is survived by her seven children, Steve (Cheryl), Mark (Sarese), Keith (Debbie), Coleen (Larry), Bill (Laura), Tom (Lexie) and Rob (David). She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; and a very special grand kitty, Sambo.

A visitation was held on Aug. 29, 7 p.m., at Wilderness Funeral Home in Malta. Funeral Services were held on Aug. 30, 1 p.m., at Wilderness Funeral Home in Malta.

Wilderness Funeral Homes has been entrusted with arrangements and services.