Obituary - Margaret Johanna (Andersen) Whalen Gill

Margaret Johanna (Andersen) Whalen Gill, 95, passed away Friday, November 17, 2023, at the Care Center in Havre.

Her vigil will be 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 28th, at Holland and Bonine Funeral Home with her Funeral Mass held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 29th, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church.

Margaret's family has suggested memorial contributions in her honor be made to the Catholic Endowment of Eastern Montana or to the charity of your choice.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Please visit Margaret's online memorial page to send a card or leave a message of condolence for her family at https://www.hollandbonine.com .

Margaret was born July 14, 1928, to Martin and Ruth (St. John) Andersen, in Harlem, Montana. She was raised and educated in Harlem. She went on to further her education and obtained her degree as an RN.  

She married Larry Whalen and together they had eight children. Margaret worked at the Deaconess and Sacred Heart Hospitals, Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd, Northern Montana Hospital, and the Care Center. There wasn't a department in the hospital where she hadn't worked. She had numerous friends and co-workers with whom she enjoyed working. They always said if you're not sure of something "Ask Margaret."

Margaret became a young widow with eight children when Larry passed away in 1971. She accepted what life gave her without complaint. Her strong faith sustained her. She was a good listener for both friends and family. She offered immense support and love without judgement. Margaret never wanted to be a burden or have any special treatment. She married Dan Gill after her children were raised and within six months was struck a widow.

After Margaret retired from her long nursing career, she could still be found volunteering her time at St. Jude School and at the Senior Citizen and Care Centers. She knitted mittens, crocheted slippers, and gave all her works not only to her grandchildren but also to the kindergarten and Head Start classes in Havre. Her family was her pride and joy, and she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Doris; brother, Morris and his wife Peggy; her first husband, Larry Whalen; her second husband, Dan Gill; and her son Gary.

Margaret is survived by her seven children, Marjorie (Dave), Kathy (Jack), Mike, Willie (Eric), Eileen, Pat and Ruth, along with a great many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

To honor Margaret's memory: Be Kind and Serve Each Other.