Yvonne Beverly Schmelebeck

The incredible matriarch of our family Yvonne “Voni” Beverly Sweeney Schmelebeck, 87, of Missoula, transcended to her eternal rest on Friday, March 17, 2023.  We had the privilege and honor of having Mom at home, where she received loving care and attention, surrounded by her family and friends. 

Mom was born on March 12, 1936, in Missoula to Michael “Mike” and Hazel Sweeney (Nelson).  She attended elementary school at Whittier, graduating from Missoula County High School in 1954.  She started her work career in elementary school at Hughes Garden, with various other jobs throughout high school.  She worked at Buttrey Foods for over 30 years and knew many of the patrons on a first-name basis.  After she retired from Buttrey’s, she worked at Crawford Insurance for several years.

She was the best mother on the planet. Mom raised us on her own teaching us manners, honesty, integrity, how to work hard, how to have a great sense of humor and above all......selfless love.  She always placed us first and foremost in her life.  We were taught about the most important things in life that money just can’t buy.  Nobody made a chocolate chip cookie like Mom!  She was a they-don’t-make-them-like-that-anymore type of gal, the real deal.  Being one of her children was an honor and a privilege.  We miss her but she wouldn’t have wanted us to fuss, just keep soldiering on.  We will hold you, Mom, in our hearts until we meet again.  Voni/Mom/Gramma/Gigi, we love you!   

Mom was preceded in death by her husband Delbert Schmelebeck, her parents Michael C. Sweeney and Hazel Grace Sweeney, her sister Darlene Rucks, her half-sister Lorraine Gardner, brother Michael “Mick” Sweeney, half-brothers Gene Sandburg, Cliff Sandburg, and Del Sandburg.

She is survived by her brother Jerry Sweeney, her children Lon (Tess) Morgan, Barbara “Bobbi” (Sam) Marshall, Rod (Jeannie) Morgan and Kari (Jay) Pollock.  She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren, who affectionately referred to her as Gigi, many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews and many beloved friends.

A burial blessing will occur at Sunset Memorial Gardens on April 15, 2023 at 10:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at the Lolo Community Center at 2:00 pm.  Arrangements for this day are being handled by the family of this beautiful soul.