Irene Ruth (Larson) Crawford
August 18th 1928- October 22nd 2019 91yrs old
Irene was called home to be with the Lord on October 22nd 2019. She died peacefully from natural causes at the Masonic Home in Helena, Montana where she lived the last few years of her life.
Irene was born to Elsie (Danish) and Elmer (Swedish) Larson in Little Falls, MN, the 3rd of 5 children. After losing their farm in the depression, the family moved to Mizpa. Irene graduated from Northhome Highschool at the top of her class and went on to attend college in Bemidji. There, she worked as a waitress in a local restaurant where she met Ralph Raymond Crawford who she married September 11th 1946 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Shortly afterward, they moved to Wolf Creek, MT, then into Helena, largely working in the restaurant business while raising their family.
Irene and Ralph became well known in the community running the Nugget Café on main street, the food department in the Placer Hotel, and later the Cabin Café in Lincoln. Also, Irene worked for many years at Frontier Town then the Night Owl restaurant until her retirement in the late 80’s.
Irene enjoyed crocheting and made many family keepsakes. She volunteered at Rossiter School and at the Masonic Home for many years. As busy as she was, she always made time to bake homemade cinnamon rolls and cookies for her children, grandchildren, and fortunate neighborhood kids.
Irene was a lifelong member of the Eastern Star and held several positions within the organization. It has been said of Irene that she was one of the most kind and gracious people in the community.
Later in life after Ralphs death, Irene had a deer companion Al Sleed, whom she spent about 10 years with, frequenting the Senior Center and traveling.
Irene raised five children that survive her, as well as one that died at birth but remained dear to her heart for life; Dwight (Marlene) Crawford of Deer Lodge, Linda (Lowell) Wollitz of Helena, Ron (Myrna) Crawford of Canyon Creek, Larry (Sandy) Crawford of Helena, and Gary (Nicole) Crawford of Anchorage Ak. Also, she is survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Irene is preceded in death by her mother, father, husband, and all her siblings.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am Monday October 28th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home. A graveside service will immediately follow the reception at Forestvale Cemetery. The family suggest memorials in her honor be made to the Masonic Home; 2010 Masonic Home Rd. Helena MT 59602.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday October 28, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Monday October 28, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Service
Monday October 28, 2019
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday October 28, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Monday October 28, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Service
Monday October 28, 2019
Forestvale Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
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Von and Ron Pearson says
We miss playing cards with you Irene, Al, & Ted. jWe’ll keep the deck shuffled and ready to go. We love and miss you all. Von and Ron Pearson
Debbie Slead says
I will always remember putting up the tree and wreath and poinsettias every year and listening to Christmas music. Such a happy time and memory, thanks!
Shawna Donaldson says
Irene was a part of the Helena Senior Center, where I work. I remember her for her smile and good outlook on life. She loved line dancing and playing cards. She is missed. May your good memories of her live on and help you through this tough time.
Marci Rae Turney says
I am blessed to be able know this family. God Bless Irene and to her family, sending prayers and many hugs!!!
Linda Hall says
Dear Linda and family I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was such a nice person always smiling. Love to you.
Twyla and Art Pembroke says
Twyla and I send our condolences and prayers to your family at this time of loss. There are so many fond memories of your mom and dad while growing up in the neighborhood.