Evelyn I. Decker

Long-time Libby resident Evelyn I. Decker passed away at her home on Monday, May 19, 2008. She was born Oct. 20, 1917 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to George G.C. Earle of England and America and Edith Ranous Earle of Ann Arbor, Mich.

Evelyn attended schools in Idaho, Montana and Washington studying opera at Seattle's Cornish School of Music, performing in several venues in the Seattle area. She was an avid reader, student of history and music, and prolific writer of prose and poetry.

She was active in many civic activities including Libby Woman's Club, Montana Writers Group, Toastmistress, Montana Republican Club, election board and census volunteer among many others. She also appeared in many civic theatre and Montana City Stage Line productions. She was very involved in church life as pianist and soloist and many other church activities.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Charles M. 'Mike' Decker in 1987; and brother Gilbert 'Pete' Earle in 1995.

She is survived by a brother George E. Earle and his wife Betty Ann of Libby; daughters Sydnie and Wendy; sons Michael and Geoffrey; seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends and 'good pals.'

The family wishes to thank her many friends and neighbors for their love and kindness. Our deep appreciation to the Carburys and staff of Blue River Homes for their loving care of our mother and to the very helpful staff of St. John's Hospice.

Services were held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 109 W. Poplar St. in Libby. If desired, memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice. Local arrangements are by Nelson & Vial Funeral Home of Libby.