Mary Rupp

Mary Anna Gill Rupp was born February 6, 1939, to Theodore and Hazel Gill in Apollo, Pa. She was her daddy’s special shadow, especially in the strawberry patch. She always had rosy cheeks and a cheery smile. Our beloved “Strawberry Mary”.

In 1959, Mary went on a blind date and met George Rupp while he was home on leave. September 16, 1961, they were married. September of this year they celebrated 56 years of marriage.

Mary and George moved west and lived in Denver, Colo., Fort Peck, Mont., Seminoe, Wyo., and eventually Thermopolis, Wyo. They spent 34 years in Thermopolis. In 2011, Mary was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She and George decided to move to Laurel, Mont., in 2014 to be closer to family. George lovingly and diligently cared for her until her passing December 5, 2017. She spent her last two weeks surrounded and cared for by family.

Mary was an incredibly talented seamstress & quilter; she created jewelry, and enjoyed crafts. She was well known for finding good deals and had an eye for antiques. Mary had the Shoe Barn and two antique businesses in Thermopolis.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, George Rupp; sister, Dorothy Bowman of Apollo, Pa.; children, Darlene (Clark) Davis, Gloria (Kyle) Geffre, and Jeff (Rosalee) Rupp; and grandchildren, Samantha, Ryan, Matthew, Addison, Rachael and Elizabeth.

A Celebration of Life was held Dec. 9 at The Rock Church in Laurel, Mont., with a reception following.

Memorials can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, The Arthritis Foundation or Compassus Hospice.