August 26, 1927 – July 22, 2022
Frances Virginia ‘Ginny’ Mellgren passed away July 22, 2022. She was born August 26, 1927 in Eagle Grove, Iowa to Evert and Mary McGrath. She attended schools in Eagle Grove and graduated from high school in 1945. She continued on to the University of Northern Iowa and graduated in Kindergarten-Primary Education.
Ginny married her childhood friend, Don C. Mellgren, in 1948 and together they traveled by train to Missoula to make their first home. Ginny taught first grade while Don attended the University and graduated in 1951. They lived in many places; Worland, WY, Miles City, MT, Billings, MT, Washington D.C., Denver CO, Elkins, WV, and Missoula. Their last place to settle was Stevensville, MT. Ginny established pre-schools in many of these towns.
Ginny was an active member of the Stevensville Methodist Church and PEO, Chapter AT in Missoula. She loved playing bridge, reading, playing the piano, and cooking dinner for friends. She was nomin te “good neighbor of the year” in 2008. Ginny also transported many people to Missoula for cancer treatments and to medical clinics.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Don, and three brothers, John, Don, and David. She is survived by daughter, Melanie and son Tim (Sheila), grandson Matthew Clyde (Lori), granddaughters, Mahle Williams (Chase), Abby Mellgren, and great grandsons Logan Hughes, Knox Williams, and great granddaughter Finely Williams.
An informal gathering to celebrate Frances’ life will be held at Stevensville United Methodist Church, August 21 st at 12 noon.
Memorials may be sent to your favorite charity or Intermountain Children’s Home, 3240 Dredge Dr., Helena, MT 59602.