On the evening of January 10, 2013, Lois died at the age of 88 after a long life of loving her husband, her children and her family. Lois was good at loving. She spent years in her early adulthood separated geographically from her parents, sending them weekly, lengthy letters, not e-mails, but lengthy letters about the events in her family’s life in the previous week. She showed her love and care to her family and friends as well by always offering food, coffee, and cookies — even if you weren’t hungry she would list everything in the fridge until you finally said yes to something to eat.
Lois died at the Big Sky Care Center where she was beautifully cared for by nurses Ron and Kelly. She was comforted in her last weeks by the presence of her husband of 64 years, her two sons, two of her grandchildren and the phone calls and prayers of her other grandchildren and relatives around the country.
Lois and her husband, Edward P. Gilleran, Jr. told their sons they thought their greatest achievement in life was to have been happily married for 64 years.
Lois and Ed’s passion, earlier in their marriage was to give their sons the finest education and every opportunity they desired. This was at great cost and sacrifice to themselves. They said the choice was a great education for their sons or three new Chevy’s. To them, the choice was obvious.
Lois was the first born child to Florian and Ethel Glineski in Helena on January 15, 1924.
Lois attended Cathedral High, Seattle University and the University of Montana. Lois was a lifetime member of Sons and Daughters of Montana Pioneers. She embarked on what was the adventure of a lifetime for a small town girl– working as a secretary in a real estate office in Maryland for her uncle, Raymond Weisner, of Helmville, and later for the National Board of Economists in New York City. In later life, she surprised her family when she informed them that she had worked with a then very young economist, Allen Greenspan, who, unbeknownst to Lois, later became Chairman of the Federal Reserve.
Ann (Sado) Fay, cousin and lifelong friend of Lois, shares a story that once when they were shopping in New York, they had the sense that people were staring at them. They were right. Prior to shopping, they had gone to mass at a parish that was under construction with dirt floors. Their knees were black.
While in New York one summer, Lois went to a cousin’s outing and met Ed, the man who would become the love of her life. Ed, a veteran of D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge, had just returned home from the war. Ed says he had no idea exactly where Montana was, but when Lois returned to Helena, he could not let her just “walk out of my life”. A courtship by mail ensued and on August 28, 1948, they married at the Helena Cathedral. Many of Ed’s family drove from New York City, an adventure for young people before the interstate highway system. A favorite stop was, what was to them, the exotic sounding Thermopolis, Wyoming.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Gary and Jack Glineski and many other extended relatives that she loved.
Lois was survived by her beloved husband, Ed, her son and daughter-in-law Michael L. Gilleran and Amy Gilleran, of Helena; son and daughter-in-law, Richard E. Gilleran and Gail R. Gilleran of Spokane, Washington; and grandchildren Emerald D. Gilleran, Ethan P. Gilleran, Susan A. Quigley, Sean P. Gilleran, Fiona J. Gilleran, Nicholas C. Trefry and Staff Sgt. Adam M. Trefry.
She was also survived by her great-grandchildren, Orion C. Trefry, Ulysses D. Trefry, Nella Matilda Trefry, and Desmond Quigley.
The family appreciates the incredible medical care of nurses Kelly and Ron of Big Sky Care Center, Dr. Gwen Pincomb, the St. Peter’s staff and the years of in-home care of Northwest Homecare. Lois was also blessed to have her son Mike living around the corner and her granddaughter Emerald living in her upstairs apartment in the last year of her life to help care for both Ed and Lois. Lois was also surrounded by generous neighbors, Pam Dale, Mark Caddwalleder, Bob and Louise Robinson, Mike Dennison and Sue O’Connell.
The Gilleran’s appreciate loving thoughts and prayers at this time and are grateful to have had such a strong and beautiful woman in their lives. There’s an amazing angel looking out for us now.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Monday, November 21, 2013 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. with a vigil service to begin at 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at the Cathedral of St. Helena. A reception will immediately follow the Mass in the Brondel Center at the Cathedral. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials in Lois’ name are suggested to The Cathedral of St. Helena Foundation, 530 North Ewing Street Helena, MT 59601 or Hospice of St. Peter’s Hospital c/o St. Peter’s Hospital, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601.
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, MT 59602
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Monday January 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Mass of Christian Burial
12:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 22, 2013
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N. Ewing
Helena, MT 59601
Reception
Following the Mass of Christian Burial
Tuesday January 22, 2013
Brondel Center
530 N. Ewing St
Helena, MT 59601
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, MT 59602
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Monday January 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Mass of Christian Burial
12:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 22, 2013
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N. Ewing
Helena, MT 59601
Reception
Following the Mass of Christian Burial
Tuesday January 22, 2013
Brondel Center
530 N. Ewing St
Helena, MT 59601
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Pam Bailey Fallang says
Eddy, Mike And Richard,
I was so glad i got to visit with your mom when i did.. I will always remember her great sence of humor..She was a wonderful lady and loved her alot..Only wish over the years we could have spent more time with her..You are all in our thoughts and prayers..If you need anything please let us know.. Love to you all. She will be missed.
Pam, Ed, and Jeff Fallang
John Jordan says
Ed, Mike, Richard:
I am so sorry for your loss. Lois went to be with the Lord the same day (a year ago) that Helen passed away. I will always have fond memories of Lois on 224th St. in Cambria Heights. She was one of the nicest people I have ever known. I also remember that when I rang the doorbell, she would ask who was at the door by opening the letter slot on the front door where I would see her eye looking back at me. You are all in our prayers.
John, Pat and Sean Jordan
Emerald Gilleran says
My prayers are with my grandpa in these days. We have one incredible angel to pray to now. My grandma was the strongest woman I’ve ever known. I spent the last year living above my grandparents in the apartment. I will never forget the memories we created in that time especially. She really was so sweet natured and her sense of humor is indescribable and often took me by surprise. We shared many laughs and inside jokes and secrets that i will cherish always. She was a worrier, I got a lot of that from her but I can only hope I get more of her attributes as I grow — her beauty, her strength, her sweetness and undying care for everyone else around her at all times. I feel lucky and blessed to have gotten so close to her, she became a fun friend. My family appreciates everyone’s comments and memories shared. She will be missed.
One fun story that I would like to share is the one about the donut thief. I came home and they had locked me out, when I got in the house the mood was somber between my grandparents. I asked them if they needed anything and they asked me to go get them more donuts. When I asked where the 12 donuts I had just got them yesterday went , grandma told me they were stolen. She was convinced when I’m sure they just didn’t remember eating them all. “I even heard someone speed off!,” she said. I looked at her with a straight face for all of two seconds until I burst out laughing. She started giggling too once she realized how silly the idea of a donut thief actually was.
She knows how I feel but I will say it again, I love you so much, grandma. Thank you. For everything.
Connie Jerome says
To the Gilleran Family and all who knew and loved Lois …
My most sincere condolences on Lois’s passing… her graduation from this life … My father used to always tell me that when one passes it is just their “Earth Suit” that passes away and that their spirit lives on, just that they reside elsewhere now. It always seemed to ease the pain of losing those we love. Lois is now experiencing new things in Heaven and I am certain she is busy trying to prepare for the time when families are all united again on the other side of this life. She was an amazing woman who leaves proof of that in her children and grand children. Her sense of humor and kind spirit can be seen in them all. I will be keeping you all in my prayers during this difficult time of transition. Thanks Em for sharing your story, it made me smile. May God hold you all in the palm of his hand and surround you with his love when you need a hug. Love to all, Connie
Marcella Walter says
Emmy and all your family,
Thinking of you with great caring tonight. Emmy, what I know for sure is how much you surrounded her with your love; how much your shared your time and spirit and skills with both your grandparents. I surely see you in your grandmother’s photo!
Lois Simpson says
Emmy and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your grandma. I didn’t have the fortune to talk to her much but the way your grandpa talked about her you just know that she was someone special, by the way he told us about the best day of day of his life. I am sure that she will be watching over all of you. I will keep you and your family in my prayers, especially your grandpa. I am sure that she will be terribly missed. Just keep her in your heart and you will always feel her near. God bless.
Pat & Patty Coyle says
So many good memories to share and not enough space. Our hearts, prayers and thoughts are with all of the Gilleran family. God Bless you all.
Pat, Patty & family
Dawn, Brian, PJ and Kellan Kissane says
Emerald, Ethan, Mike, Ed and the Gillerans – we are thinking of you as you remember Lois. I recall spending an entire summer in the same apartment Emmy wrote about, above Ed & Lois. They would give me a few bucks to run up the street to buy some New York Seltzer because yes, even in Helena, you can get some New York “stuff.” Boy was it delicious. Wish I could be with you in the coming days, but know I love Lois and Ed like they are my own grandparents. Sending love and prayers.
Grandma Jude Illikainen says
Grandpa Ed, Michael, Emerald, Ethan, and Gillerans, – I am thinking of the times spent visiting both Lois and Ed, and the stories they always shared of their meeting, their lives together, and how much they loved their grandchildren. I envied Ed and Lois for living so close to Em and Ethan, and Ed being able to go to the school within walking distance of their home, sharing class time with the kids. They always have had good things to say about people. It was a pleasure to be able to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with them at the Macaroni Grill. God bless you all, and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs and love your way.
Desera Towle and Peter Freund says
Mike, Ed, Em and Ethan,
Mike, thanks for sharing news of your mom’s last days. I think of Lois as a private person, almost shy but with a girlish twinkle and sweet manner. I too stayed one night in the apartment when the roads were bad and I couldn’t drive to McClellan Creek! Lois always welcomed my infrequent chats. Thought we could make her funeral but I hurt my foot at work and need to stay off of it. Love your mom’s picture. Let me know if you make a video.
Where are donations in her memory going?
Peace be with you,
Desera and Peter
262 Barbara St
Stevensville, MT 59870
Stephen E Roy says
I was very sad to hear of Aunt Lois’ passing. Some of the most fond memories I have of my youth are the visits to Queens to see my mothers’ side of the family. I can say with absolute clarity and conviction that she had one of the most soothing, loving voices I have ever heard in my life. Even though I haven’t literally seen her in a very long time, I can still hear her saying my name…in the same way that one’s senses are stirred to life when they hear a song or encounter an aromatic pleasure. I got the feeling that even though I was but one of many people in her life, I occupied a special place. That always made me feel good. I am very happy to have had the chance to talk with her on the phone in the last year to renew bonds. May God Bless her and hold her in His loving hands.
Robert & Diana Ramsower says
Ed, Richard, Michael & Families,
It was with great sadness that we receieved the news of the passing of Lois. She was a fine lady in all respects. It was our privilege and joy to live next to you many years ago in Houston, Texas. You were wonderful neighbors and we always enjoyed our visits together. Although Lois was more of a listener than talker, when she did say something it was always very insightful. She was a very pleasant person with a distinctive laugh. The devotion and love Ed and Lois had for each other was admired by everyone who knew them. Ed and Lois were also excellent parents as we watched Richard and Mike grow into fine young men. Although we haven’t seen you all in many years, we still think of you often with pleasant memories of our times together. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With our deepest sympathy.
Robert & Diana Ramsower
Sue Lane says
Ed and Family,
I know how you will miss that wonderful persn, but she will not be forgotten. She is now happy and healthy. I was fortunate to see her last week and give her a kiss and tell her that she is loved, but had to laugh, when taking her picture as she was sitting with her eyes closed,….she would open her eyes, smile, and wink…..just for the picture!! I will always remember that smile………..hope you do to. Love to all…….Sue Bailey Lane
Kally and Phil Porrini says
Dear Gillerans,
Reading these notes makes us laugh and cry all at once. . . such good memories!
Growing up, Lois was my mom’s beautiful cousin. As a teen, Lois and Ed brought Phil to Helena on a vacation. Lois said, “On that trip Phil fell in love with Montana. Then he fell in love with Kally.” So you know how important you all have been in our lives!
The funny stories and adventures Lois shared with us, her amazing sense of humor, and her kindness for us all will live on in our hearts. We will think of her whenever we have a good cup of coffee and a cookie. (Sorry the doughnuts are all gone.)
Love,
Kally and Phil
Wayne Weisner says
Eddie and I went to Fordham Prep in New York and it was through our family in Jackson Heights, NY that he met the love of his life Lois. They we a perfect match and they had an exciting life, including Texas, and they returned to Lois home in Big Sky Country. Eddie took to life in Helena and became very active in the community. Lois was a wonderful wife and mother and was loved by all around her. We will all miss her very much and send our sympathies to your family.
Farol (Glineski) Jones says
My cousin, Lois, was few years older that I and as a young girl, I was in awe of her, and I still am. Throughout the years we did not keep in touch but I did think of her often. The past few years we made several trips and always made it a point to spend time with Lois and Ed. These visits were so enjoyable and special to me. I am grateful for these memories, and I am proud to have been one of her cousins.
Michael & Stacey Weisner says
I’ve visited Montana three times in my life. Each time I have been impressed with how warm, welcoming and generous the people have been. The Glineski’s/Gilleran’s have always been an important part of that experience.
The first trip was with my parents and the seven of us children. It was in 1969 and the year of the moon landing. I can recall thinking, which is further from my home in New York, the moon or Helmville? One thing I do know, the we could not have received a warmer welcome from our Montana relatives than if we had gone to the sun. The food was always
bountiful and the friendliness tangible.
My second trip was in ’76 with my brother Ray and friend Eddie. I believe we stayed in the upstairs apartment of the Glineski’s. I recall Ethel always wanting to feed us, and Florian always wanting to go prospecting. He just knew there was plenty of gold in the hills waiting for him to discover.
Ten years ago Stacey and I spent a couple of nights with Lois and Ed in the upsstairs apartment. The welcomed us as if we were their best friends and went out of their way to make our stay comfortable. When we left their house we went to get gas in our rental car. I noticed what I thought was antifreeze dripping from the car. Not wishing to risk driving a car over the Rockies to Helmville and having a breakdown I thought I should get a new car. Just then Michael drove into to the same gas station. Helena is a small town. Anyway we took the luggage our of the rental, put it into his car and went back to the Gillerans. I’m sure they were more than surprised to see us back, suitcases in hand! Gracious as always, they invited us back in. Fortunately we got a new rental car and were on our way about one hour later. I’m not sure what they thought of the whole episode, but they sure were nice about it.
I never think of them without fond memories coming back.
Michael
Debbye Ark says
Lois was, and always will be my mother-in-law and the gramma of my children. I will miss her very much! Shortly after she and Ed moved back to Montana, Mike and I welcomed Emerald. When she was little, I remember the first time that Michael and took a night out and Lois and Ed offered to watch her. After a nice night on the town, we retrieved Em, took her home and were getting her ready for bed ……. to discover that her Pampers was on backwards! It never occurred to me that I needed to give my mother-in-law a tutorial on how to put on a disposable diaper! What she and Ed must have had thought, when they were presented with a diaper with NO pins! Haha. I am so grateful that she got to spend time with her grandchildren ………. they loved her too! RIP Lois. Another Angel in Heaven watching over so many family members.
Bob Roy says
I cannot tell you how saddened I was to hear that Aunt Lois had passed away. So many years and memories flashed through my head. I remember overnight trips to Cambria Heights, family get togethers either in Cambria Heights, Jackson Heights, Huntington or Congers. Aunt Lois always had a kind word, a bit of wisdom and a wonderful smile. I remember the last time I saw her in 1999. Kathleen and I were in Helena and we were able to spend some time with Lois and Eddie. I remember thinking nothing had changed. It was as if I was back in Cambria Heights. Aunt Lois was and is a blessing on all who knew her.
mike gilleran says
So many memories.I will always remember her voice.So sweet and soothing.She was never boastful but she was quietly proud of and grateful to have quit smoking at age 57.She credited good genes and that accomplishment to have given her almost 89 years of life.
Shawn McShane says
To Ed and Mike – we are very sorry to hear of Lois’s passing. But thrilled that she and Ed were able to spend so much time together, especially with kids and grandkids nearby!! Mike – to add you your comment above, I am guessing that clean Montana air also had something to do with her long life (after giving up smoking more than 30 years ago).
Our family came to know Ed and Lois in the mid-1970’s down in Houston, TX…when their Mike taught our brother Bill what to do with the basketball at Jesuit College Prep. They and their teammates kicked a whole lot of butt down there! Ed was definitely a louder and more animated cheerleader than Lois, but both of them were enormously proud of their point guard Mike… and rightly so! He ran the show for the Jesuit Crusaders! (Think John Stockton).
Lois Gilleran ….R.I.P. Ed and Mike (and family)…take the best of care.
Bill McShane says
Mike, Mr. Gilleran, family & friends,
We send our condolences for your loss of Mrs. G.
Mom & I have been sharing the many great memories we have of our Strake Jesuit days in Houston w Mike, Mr. & Mrs G. including road trips to Baytown & San Antonio. Mom remembers the Gillerans as wonderful people & good friends. She says you always knew you were a special friend to Lois when she would share her fresh baked goods. Perhaps Lois would say her work here is done and she is now playing on an even greater championship team. I remember Mrs. G. as a very kind decent person who loved her family especially when Mike led us to another win. You never forget legend .
Respectfully,
Bill McShane aka Wheatley
One last time for Mr. G’s best team mate
” lemon lime soda
chocolate fizz
we love Lois
who you is “
Ken Culotta says
The Gillerans moved into the Sharpstown neighborhood in Houston in 1970, just around the corner from us, borne by the tidal migration of Shell Oil. I entered 8th grade that year at St Francis de Sales parish school not knowing that we’d quickly become such good friends. Hoops in the driveway led to late nights and Johnny Carson, sporting expeditions with the Valiants and beach campouts. Ed was as an accomodating dad, cheerful as the kids, and shot free throws (amazingly well!) underhand from between his knees — Old School. Lois was the abiding mom, always with a plate or glass (or both) of something good. And Geno’s pizza rolls for when we outlasted them late into the evening. Lois always had time for a chat, always in that deliberate, measured Montana cadence. And she had the patience of a saint, what with us always leaving a trail of trash in our wake, even building the “Battle of Vicksburg” out of mud and dead grass on the dining table! Theirs was a very kind and friendly household, and after moving away I always tried to find time, in my trips to Houston, to stop and say hello to Mr and Mrs Gilleran. I am that Mike and his folks have been able to be together in Montana for many years. A fond farewell to Lois — and Ed, Mike, and Rich — you are in my thoughts.