Zona Bauer

Zona Vera Wigle Bauer passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, surrounded by love and cherished memories.

Born on August 25, 1928, in Lakeside, Montana, to Zuriel Valentine (Fuzzy) Wigle and Ella Lee Wigle, Zona was the second oldest of six siblings: Zela, Twila, Hazel, Perry, Pearl, and Aletha. She often shared stories of her childhood, the heartbreak of losing her mother at a young age, the responsibility of helping raise her siblings, and the joy of growing up near Flathead Lake. Zona loved to reminisce about the mischief she and her siblings got into and the patience their father showed through it all.

On May 31, 1947, Zona married the love of her life, Carl John Bauer. Together they raised four children—Carol, John, Fred, and Dorene—and built a life filled with hard work, laughter, and devotion. Zona was deeply involved in Carl’s logging business, always ready to lend a hand and move wherever needed to support her family. Her fierce loyalty and protective nature were unmatched—she never hesitated to stand up for those she loved.

Zona was a vibrant, spunky woman who embraced life fully. She enjoyed bowling with Carl and their children in the Saturday night league, playing bingo, knitting, reading, and painting stunning wildlife scenes that became treasured family keepsakes. She had a gift for making every gathering special. Her legendary Christmas celebrations were filled with laughter, delicious food, games, and an abundance of love. Everyone was welcome in Zona’s home, and when it was time to leave, she always asked, “Can you stay a little longer?”

For the last decade of her life, Zona made her home at the Immanuel Lutheran Home, where she was cared for by an exceptional staff and continued to leave her mark with her friendly yet rebellious spirit—always keeping everyone on their toes with her escape attempts and sense of humor.

Zona’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her sister Aletha Harvey; her children Carol (Don) Reum, John (Cathy) Bauer, Fred (Debbie) Bauer, and Dorene Bauer; her grandchildren, Sheila (Scott) Riley, Monica (Scott) Messick, Devin (Kelly) Bauer, Jonny (Collette) Bauer, Mindi (Terrell) Thomas, Ken Spain, Richard Spain, Jamey (Mike) Burton, Kyle (Stefan) Lawson; and numerous great and great-great grandchildren. Her love and influence will live on in each of them.

Zona was the heart of her family, a source of strength, laughter, and unconditional love. Her legacy is one of resilience, generosity, and joy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Zona’s remarkable life on Thursday, November 20th at 3 p.m. at the Kalispell Eagles.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family.