Cheers

Louise LaBrie, 92 years young, has deep roots in Whitefish, where she has spent her entire life. Old-timers will remember her parents Roger and Pearl Smith and the feed store and service station that Roger owned and operated. Louise proudly proclaims that her mother was the first white child born in this area.

Louise was a familiar feature at Haines Drug, where for 52 years she worked as a bookkeeper. During those years, she maintained an active role in family and community affairs. Her home is remembered as the early-day gathering place for grandchildren and their friends, who were always fed and given assistance in their school work.

After the death or her husband, "Duke" Wellington, she married Art La Brie, and she derives great comfort and enjoyment from her extended family. On one hand, she is known as a "great socializer" who loves to visit with family and friends, and on the other as "one person who does the work of four."

She was the bookkeeper for the North Valley Food Bank and remains active in the Whitefish Soroptimist Club. She has held every office at least once and is their long-time treasurer. She was instrumental in establishing the Soroptimist Children's Park and relocating the Soroptimist Thrift Haus where, additionally, she helped sort, clean and display items for sale.

Louise is known as a great cook and contributes generously to church suppers, funeral dinners, volunteer work parties and friends who are ill. Friends describe her as "a really kind and generous person" and "a great role model."

Louise, your many acts of kindness have enriched the lives of many people, and your community thanks you for all you do.

— Jake Heckathorn

This column is dedicated to those who give freely of their time and energy to worthwhile community projects, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. If you know such a person, please e-mail jheckathorn@centurytel.net.