Gladys Mary Visnes, 98

Gladys Mary Visnes died March 23, 2020, in Coeur d’Alene, with loved ones by her side. She was 98 years old, almost 99. Each year on the day after her birthday, May 29, she would round her age to the next year as she was proud to lead a long, full life.

The daughter of Herbert and Catherine Loughland, she grew up with her sister, Betty, in Butte, Mont., where she met and married Norman Visnes in May of 1943. Together they lived in Butte and Radersburg, Mont., and Kellogg, Wallace and Silverton, Idaho. Later they moved to Tucson, Ariz., and Summit, N.J., with Norm’s career with ASARCO. They traveled the world extensively before retiring to Coeur d’Alene.

Gladys was a natural athlete in a time when there were few opportunities for women. She was an avid golfer, even golfing with family on her 80th birthday. She cared for others, loved to cook and was known for her special recipes.

Gladys is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law: Kristi and Rich Hatrock of Coeur d’Alene and Lynn and Jim Mead of New Fairfield, Conn. Her joy was time spent with family, including grandchildren Brett, Holly, Eric and Kyle, and their four spouses, plus nine great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was a caring, loving woman who made a difference in the world. We are thankful for her almost 99 years of a strong, athletic and fun filled legacy. We will celebrate her spirit that lives on.