1 week Ago
November 9, 1943 - March 26, 2025 Donalee Beary LaBar, aged 81, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly of natural causes at her home with her husband, Don LaBar, by her side. Born on November 9, 1943 in San Diego, California, Donalee was the daughter of Donald and Bonnie Beary. She grew up on the family farm in Hardin, Montana and graduated from Hardin High School in 1961.
She went on to attend the University of Montana, Missoula, earning a degree in elementary education in 1965. While at UM, Donalee embraced campus life fully. She was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, the K-Dettes, and Spurs, and she served as the president of a student association.
Her early career took her to Great Falls, where she relished teaching Kindergarten. She later worked as a fundraiser for Easter Seals. Donalee remained deeply connected to her sorority sisters, helped create the UM Greek Task Force, and supported connections with her husband's fraternity, Sigma Alpha Epsilon.
She recently became an honorary "little Sister of Minerva" for SAE. Donalee had a gift for encouragement that was as heartfelt as it was steady. She followed the lives and creative work of others, especially in the arts, with a sincere and lasting interest.
A lifelong lover of the arts, Donalee was an aspiring collector with a deep appreciation for creativity in all forms. She championed local artists and her passion for beauty, expression, and connection shone through everything she did. She was a natural organizer, nurturing connections with family, high school and college friends, as well as with many friends and neighbors wherever she lived.
She loved the GRIZ football games and traveling to places around the world. She maintained her love for learning through UM Molli classes and lectures. Donalee married Don LaBar in 1966.
She is survived by her husband Don and sons: Derek (Mona), Jevon (Jessica) and Ryan as well as her cherished grandson, Sami. She will also be greatly missed by her sister, Jean Beary Stolle, and brother, Bob (Laura) Beary. A memorial service is scheduled at the University Congregational-UCC, 405 University Avenue in Missoula, Saturday, May 10, at 2 p.
m. A reception with refreshments will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice are welcome and appreciated.
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