Mary Christina Beall

Mary Christina Beall was born March 15, 1947, to Eddie and Peggy Barden in Spokane, Wash. Mary was the youngest of one brother and two sisters.

She spent much of her youth helping her dad run a logging business. Fresh out of high school, she met and married John Coogan. With John she had two children: a son, Charles (Eddie), and daughter, Serena. After about 10 years she and John divorced and Mary became a single mom. Never one to complain, she raised them both while working fulltime.

After both children left the nest, she began working at a business called The Cop Shop.

The Cop Shop was a retail store selling public safety and first responder uniforms and equipment. While working in the fall of 1992, she met her current husband, Rod Beall. It was an instant dislike on Mary’s part. After learning that Rod would not be working in the store but instead be an outside salesman for Montana and Idaho, she mellowed a bit.

Rod and Mary eventually married in Boise, Idaho, on Oct. 2, 1993. This was witnessed by Mary’s daughter, Serena.

Rod convinced Mary of the grass being greener in Montana, so they set up in Bozeman. From Bozeman they moved to Belgrade, then to Great Falls and, finally, to Libby, where they both knew they had come home.

Once established in Libby, Mary sought out volunteer work wherever she could, including the Libby Food Bank and VFW Auxiliary. She became a member of The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, thoroughly loving the relationships she developed.

Mary began the practice of taking credits earned at a local consignment store, buying coats and other winter clothing and donating them to the Koats for Kids. One of Mary’s wishes is for Rod to continue this tradition.

Mary wants everyone to know two things. If she offended you in way, please forgive her.

She said she has already forgiven anyone who has offended her. She wants to be very clear on this.

Mary wants to have a celebration of her life. She wants the affair to be festive and for all to have a good time. She especially wants good stories told about her.

Mary was truly one of a kind. For anyone who knows her, she has left a hole in our hearts. She will be greatly missed by all.

Mary has asked that in lieu of flowers to please make a donation in her name to Kootenai Pets for Life.

Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.