On the morning of May 17th, 2013 Mary passed away peacefully of natural causes at the age of eighty-nine. Mary was surrounded by family members at the time of her death.
Mary was born and raised in the Gallatin Valley of Montana. She was the youngest daughter of five children born to Hazel York and Roy Copenhaver. She was nicknamed “Mick” by her older siblings.
Following her graduation from Bozeman High School in 1941, Mary relocated to Helena to study accounting. She subsequently attained an accounting position at Associated Foods where she met James (Jim) Franklin Moser. She and Jim married in September of 1946. Mary and Jim raised three children: Colleen, Jay, and Tom. They enjoyed camping and boating on Hauser Lake where they eventually purchased property and established Moser’s Marina. Mary was known for hosting an annual Fourth of July wine and cheese party and potluck picnic.
Mary had a long and successful career at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana. She retired in June of 1989. Additionally, Mary performed bookkeeping for small businesses and enjoyed completing taxes for her friends from January to April each year.
Mary and her husband Jim were members of the Elks Lodge, after his passing, Mary continued attending events through the Lodge. Mary was an avid square dancer and served as the secretary/treasurer of her square dancing club. After retirement, Mary became a “Snow Bird”, traveling to Arizona each winter to live for several months. She adored the Southwest landscape, especially the towering Saguaro cactuses. Kelly, her faithful poodle-Pomeranian, accompanied her on every trip.
Mary was preceded in death by husband James Franklin Moser, son Thomas Michael Moser, parents, Hazel York and Roy Copenhaver, and brothers, James Copenhaver, Sam Copenhaver and Joe Copenhaver. Mary is survived by sister, Mattie LaForce, daughter Colleen Lorea Teberg, son James Peter Moser, granddaughter Lisa Marie Teberg, and grandson Alex James Teberg.
The family will be receiving friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2013 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. The family invites you to join them in a celebration of Mary’s life 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. A lite reception will follow in the fellowship hall of the funeral home. Burial of Mary’s cremated remains will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorials in Mary’s name are suggested to an organization or charity of the donor’s choice. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Mary.
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday May 20, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Immediately following the Memorial Service to Appx. 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana
Burial
Appx. 3:45 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
7100 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday May 20, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Immediately following the Memorial Service to Appx. 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana
Burial
Appx. 3:45 p.m.
Tuesday May 21, 2013
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
7100 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana
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Dana Copenhaver-Ellsworth says
I’ll miss your sweet spirit Aunt Mick! We always had such wonderful holiday gatherings at your home and special gatherings at the lake in the summer. I’ll carry many fond memories of you with me forever.
Patty (Hallberg) Cartin says
Colleen, James and family: I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Mary’s passing. I have so many fond memories of her. She was always such a delight and always had such a great smile and personality. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. I will always remember her smiles and kindness.
Cherryl Batchelor says
Colleen so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Glenna Kendall says
Colleen, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this time. God bless you.
Kim Beatty says
Colleen: I am so sorry to hear of of your mom’s passing. I am grateful that it was peaceful and that you were with her. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love, Kim, Brendan, Colin and Ryan.
Janel McCall says
Dear Colleen and family, Our sympathy and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Though we know she is in a better place, it is still hard to lose a parent. We hope you find comfort in your faith, family, and friends. In sympathy, Dennis and Janel
Kathy Brothers &whitney &John says
Dear Colleen I am so sorry to hear about Mary, she was a wonderful person. I enjoyed doing her hair and visiting with her. Our prayers and sympathy are with you and your family.
Sandy Carroll says
Colleen, I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was a very sweet lady. Always very helpful and had nothing but nice things to say. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.