Elsie M. Berger of Cascade died of natural causes on February 20, 2020, at age 99-3/4 in Great Falls.
She was born on May 13, 1920, the third of five girls in seven years to John and Mary Engstrom on a farm near Scobey in northwestern Montana.
Elsie and her husband Albert resided on the Missouri River beginning in 1982, and their home on Siebold Lane across from the Missouri Inn was the site of many social gatherings. Both involved themselves in community life, extending hospitality to all they encountered.
Tall, trim, always stylishly attired and usually bedecked with bright jewelry appropriate—or not, depending on her whim—to the occasion, Elsie an active participant in the goings-on of the canyon south of Cascade, whether it be Bingo or Bunco, knitting or recycling, Red Hat antics or church events. Her bright smile and friendly “hi there” were infectious. Her quick wit and sense of humor were delightful. She was a words-and-numbers genius, a stiff competitor in games especially when the timer was running. She shared the gifts of kindness and generosity and, yes, laughter to those around her.
A celebration of Elsie’s life will be conducted on Sunday, March 8, 2020, at 1 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 3½ 3rd Street North in Cascade. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall behind the church.
To read the full obituary or to share condolences, visit the O'Connor Funeral Home website.
