Gerry Pladson

Gerry Pladson

Longtime Havre resident Geraldine "Gerry" Pladson, 90, died peacefully in her sleep Feb. 26, 2013, at Northern Montana Care Center.

Gerry was born on April 22, 1922, in Grand Forks, N.D., to Edward and Eva Cecily McLain. The second of four children, she was raised in Grand Forks and graduated from St. James Academy in 1940. She married James Cochrane Pladson on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 1942. After the war, the Pladsons moved to Havre.

Although she was not allowed to follow her dream of going to college to become a commercial artist or designer, Gerry's creative nature emerged in most everything she did. As a seamstress she could not only sew beautifully, but create gowns for which there were no patterns. For years she loved sewing outfits for the "Dress A Doll" contest so little girls could have beautiful Christmas gifts. She also became a talented cake decorator and innumerable area couples will remember their special cake made by her hands.

Gerry was well known for her work as the Hill County Fair secretary/manager. One of her most treasured accomplishments was helping get the Bigger Better Barn for the fairgrounds. She also served in the Montana Hospital Auxiliary for 14 years, helping locally and becoming state president.

4-H was dear to her heart. Gerry served as a leader for 30 years and became the Montana Local Leaders Association 4-H President.

Her dedication and hard work earned her the respect of colleagues in various aspects of her life and Havre's Woman of Achievement distinction, Heart of Gold winner for service and self-sacrificing contribution to the community, and Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Manager of the Year.

She is survived by daughter Kip (Ed) Schnackenberg of Cody, Wyo., grandchildren, Hauns (Amy) Schnackenberg, Aunika (Carson) Klienfeldt, Karl (Jolene) Schnackenberg; and eight great-grandchildren, all of Wyoming.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; and three siblings.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 4, at Northern Montana Care Center Chapel with Father Daniel Wathen officiating.

Memorials may be sent to the NMCC Chapel Fund or St. Jude's School.