Thelma M. Baker

MISSOULA ~ Thelma Marguerite (Bell) Baker, 92, of Missoula passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Thelma was born October 15, 1932, in Helena, Montana. She spent her early years in Three Forks before moving to Missoula. She attended Roosevelt Grade School and graduated from Missoula County High School, and St. Patrick’s School of Nursing. Thelma was employed as a nurse at Missoula General Hospital for 22 years prior to becoming the owner and manager of the Thunderbird and Canyon Motels in 1978.

Thelma worked tirelessly for the Republican Party. She served on the State Executive Board for twelve years and held various positions with the Missoula County Republican Women, the Missoula County Republican Central Committee, and Pachyderm. In addition, she managed political campaigns and served as a Montana Delegate to the Republican National Convention in 2004 and 2008. She was a voting member of the Montana Electoral College since 2000, voting in six elections.

She was involved with the UM Grizzly Athletic Association, Copper Connections, Missoula Chamber of Commerce, Missoula Downtown Association, and belonged to Beta Sigma Phi for over 50 years. She enjoyed traveling and had memorable trips with her son David and daughter Sharon.

Thelma was a committed mother to her five children and raised her granddaughter Michelle Wade from the time she was 10 years old. She was proud to be surrounded by five generations of family. Survivors include her sisters Margaret Huish and Georgiana Reichelt, daughter Sharon Woldstad, and son James (Wendy) Martin. 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents William and Ada Bell, her biological mother Marguerite Michael, and sister Marcella Phillips. Thelma was also preceded in death by three sons: Billy Martin (1970), David Martin (1990), and Steve Martin (1999).

Services will be held Friday, February 14, 2025, at 10:30AM at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Missoula. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens, culminating in a reception at the church.

Donations may be made to Missoula Aging or an organization dear to your heart.