Mona's Obituary
Mona Clewley was born in Spokane WA to Jerilyn Joyce Rippeotoe and Herman Grimes Rippetoe in the spring of 1963. She left this world on December 24, 2022, at the age of 59.
The family moved to Great Falls MT in 1972 following her dad’s military career, and it became home. Growing up she loved to ride her bike, go swimming and camping, play with her dolls, and play games with the "park" kids. She loved being in Brownies, tap dancing, and ballet dancing.
Mona began building her family in 1980 with Mark Wheeler. She then met and married Dave Clewley. During their relationship, they traveled to many places while raising her children, Brian and Brandi Clewley. She returned to Great Falls in 1987 to be close to family and raise her children. In 1996, she met John Kramarich. Her greatest joy was doting on her grandchildren, Aspen, Maddi, Dylan, and Jaxon.
One of Mona's many passions in life was helping others. After having various jobs, she began her true career as a secretary at The Center For Mental Health. This is where her journey for her dream career began. Mona began working towards her bachelor’s degree while raising her children, working full time, and while running a household. Mona earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Great Falls and continued her education to earn her master’s degree in counseling and completed her testing to become a licensed counselor. Mona obtained her dream job along with opening her private practice, Peaceful Minds Counseling.
Mona was a person that had a love for many things. She loved to do crafts with her mom, spend time in the mountains, attend concerts, hunt for "the good deal," and so many other things. She loved to be surrounded by family and friends. Her home and the "Tiki Hut" were the places to gather. She always made sure everyone was taken care of and nobody went hungry (even though the expired EZ cheese may have been on the menu).
She wrapped her arms and heart around her family with a powerful love and deep care and still had more love to give to her friends and the people she served in the community. Her thirst for adventure would be the reason she would be sitting next to you saying “wasn't that fun” instead of sitting on the sidelines. Her smile was contagious and would brighten up everyone's day. Wherever her life took her, she would forge lasting friendships. Her zest for life and her supportive attitude was taken away from us all way too soon. Mona will be missed by many, especially her loving family and friends.
Mona was preceded in death by her grandparents and 4 uncles. She is survived by her life partner, John Kramarich; parents, Rip and Jerrie Rippetoe; children, Brian (Julie) and Brandi (Sammy Hames) Clewley, Dalton (Bethaney) Kramarich, Sarah (Rob) Pettapiece; grandchildren, Aspen, Maddi, Dylan, Jaxon and Grayson; sister, Lisa Rippetoe (Lori Hagen); brother, Rustin Rippetoe; along with aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A viewing will take place at Schnider Funeral Home on Friday, December 30, 2022, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The memorial service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Chapel on Friday, January 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.
