Rachel A. Vielleux

Rachel A. Vielleux passed away Jan. 10, 2024, in Whitefish. Born Sept. 21, 1949, in Fort Benton to George and Bessie (Black) Vielleux, she graduated valedictorian in 1967 from Fort Benton High School with numerous academic honors, civic and social recognition. Rachel was a Past Worthy Advisor of Fort Benton Rainbow Assembly #50 and received the Grand Cross of Color.

She went on to excel in academics at the University of Montana and was a devout Grizzly fan. Rachel taught in an open-concept school system in Hamilton, helping to pioneer that new method of teaching.

Rachel was appointed superintendent of Missoula County Schools in 1985 and was continuously re-elected until her retirement in 2010. During her 25-year tenure, Rachel traveled south to Woodman School, north to Swan Valley School and all schools in between, championing rural Montana schools, both teachers and students. She chaired a number of committees and boards, volunteered at Reading Radio Service for 26 years, presided over a number of school-related court cases and, her favorite, oversaw the county spelling bee.

In 2002, Rachel was awarded the G.V. Erickson Award, one of the highest honors a school administrator can receive. She was a remarkable woman whose career was dedicated to excellence and equity for all children in Missoula County.

Rachel is survived by her ex-husband Gary Boe, married 28 years; brother Steve (Diane) Vielleux; sister Susan Lepley; four nieces; eight great-nieces and nephews and her prized 13-year-old cat.

A fitting memorial service in Missoula is being held for Rachel in February at the Stadium Club located in Washington Grizzly Stadium.

A celebration of her life will be held June 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the Fort Benton Cemetery followed by a reception at the Clubhouse Bar.