Audrey M. Gelling peacefully passed away June 24, 2020 at The Springs of Butte, surrounded by her loving family.
She was raised in Philipsburg with her only sister Betty and also lived for a time at Southern Cross, MT. She liked to tell stories of her young life in these towns. Her P’burg High School graduating class had 12 students, eleven of whom were female. The boys were off to war! Imagine her prom. She and her friends liked the CCC boys in the area, of course.
She loved Philipsburg and came back often to visit family and friends. She returned almost every year for Flint Creek Valley Days and never missed a class reunion.
Audrey married young, right after the war, and raised three children. She was a dedicated mother, wonderful cook and homemaker. She continued cooking large family dinners right up to age 80. Her signature roast beef dinners and coveted old roaster will long be remembered. Her wonderful chocolate birthday cakes and dinners kept the family together over the years.
Her children were especially proud of her when, after divorce, without work experience, and with initial trepidation, she began a 23 year career at the Social Security Administration, eventually rising to the level of Data Review Technician. After working all day, she attended Montana Tech receiving her college degree.
During this time, she married the love of her life, Ed Gelling. They were together for 35 wonderful years until Ed passed. Ed enjoyed spoiling her and gave her much happiness, for which she was always so grateful. They enjoyed many good times together like entertaining family and friends, fine dining, dancing, bowling and many cruises and international travel.
Audrey and Ed were longstanding members of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Audrey also was a member and officer of the Butte Christian Women’s Club.
She and Ed danced like Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire; clearing a dance floor for the first dances wherever they went. They were wonderful to watch. Audrey loved beautiful clothes and shoes to match each occasion and Ed spent may patient hours sitting the bench while she enjoyed her favorite pastime of shopping.
As a member of the Greatest Generation, Audrey lived through the Great Depression and World War II. She lived through some really hard times and experienced want. She and Ed were both grand examples of people who came from this era. They led quiet lives with strong moral values, generosity and courtesy to others, dedication to church and country, and service to others.
Survivors include her children Cindy (Phil) Sanderson Garcia, Barbara (John) Burns and Douglas (Joni) Sanderson, all of Butte; step-children, Bill (Jerri) Gelling, Rick (Jodi) Gelling, Sherry Bearden, and Linda Carroll. Audrey was blessed with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, July 8th at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00. The church requires masks, please. Due to Covid-19, for the safety of guests and family, it has been decided that a reception will not be held. The family appreciates your understanding.
Special thanks to the staff at the Springs for their special care for Audrey and also to Compassus Hospice. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Audrey.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 8, 2020
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 8, 2020
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
1621 Thornton Ave.
Butte, Montana 59701
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Ken and Micki Palmer says
We have many fond memories of Audrey and so enjoyed those times we spent with her. Her grandchildren will miss her. Our sympathy and prayers are with her children.
Anna Vukovich says
I love you Grandma Audrey! You taught us so much! Memory Eternal