Raymond Managhan

Raymond L. Managhan, 94, passed away March 27, 2006, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

He was born Dec. 19, 1911, in Kalispell to Robert and Minnie (Pierson) Managhan. Ray was one of eight children, including two half brothers and one half sister. He attended Batavia School in Smith Valley and worked on his family farm while he was growing up.

On Dec. 9, 1933, Ray married Bernice Iverson in Kalispell. They recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. Ray worked as a logger and farmer for many years. In 1938, he worked for Bev Lester and helped with the first two rail-car loads of Christmas trees ever shipped from Kalispell.

In 1958, Ray began working for the Soil Conservation Office in Kalispell, and in 1961 he went to work for the Flathead County Reclassification Office. On Jan. 1, 1963, he was elected Flathead County Assessor. He held that office for 12 years. He also held the office of State President of Assessors.

After retiring, Ray spent several years volunteering for the RSVP and the Kalispell Senior Center. He also served a term as a Senior Legislator in Helena. In 1984, he was presented with the state award of the Area IX Senior Citizen of the year.

Ray was a charter member of the Kalispell Moose Lodge, serving on the first board of officers. He was also a member of the Kalispell Eagles. He served on the school boards of Deer Park and Boorman schools. He was also active with local 4-H clubs. During retirement, Ray and Bernice spent time traveling throughout the United States and Canada.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers; three sisters; one grandchild; and one great grandchild.

He is survived by his wife Bernice Managhan at the family farm in Kalispell; sons Ray Managhan, of Whitefish, Robert Managhan, of Spokane, and Richard Managhan, of Gig Harbor, Wash.; daughter Faye Freeman, of Kalispell, Thelma Diciocco, of Libby, and Patty Binegar, of Houston, Texas; 18 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren; and numerous other relatives.

Funeral services were held April 1, 2006, in the Johnson Mortuary Chapel, with Dr. David Kauffman officiating. Burial followed at Glacier Memorial Gardens.

The family suggests donations be made in Ray's name to the donors choice.