Alice made it to the remarkable age of 99.
Music was a big part of Alice’s life. She taught herself to play the piano well enough to become a church organist, if you’re determined enough, you don’t need lessons… just confidence and a congregation. She also made sure her daughters developed their musical talents, whether they realized they wanted to or not.
Alice had an excellent sense of style and always took pride in looking “put together,” as she liked to say. Mom was an incredible seamstress, making her daughters’ prom dresses and even Jan’s wedding dress—custom work, no returns, but fortunately no complaints either.
She was also fiercely competitive, a trait she developed growing up with eleven siblings—because in a family that size, second place probably meant you didn’t get dessert. That competitive spirit never left her. Grandma beat her 10-year-old granddaughter in a game of basketball HORSE and likely didn’t let her forget it. At age 50 she was still out on the softball field playing against her own daughter.
Alice remained faithful to her Catholic faith throughout her life, volunteering, and supporting her church community.
Alice managed to catch the eye of William Gustafson, a confirmed bachelor. After meeting her, Bill wisely reconsidered, and they enjoyed 34 years of marriage.
Education was extremely important to Alice. She earned not one, but two education degrees—32 years apart. At age 52, she went back to school full-time for a year, proving it’s never too late to hit the books or outwork everyone half your age. All three of her children became teachers, so clearly, she was a very convincing role model.
Alice had a strong sense of adventure. She traveled across the country and around the world and at times took her family along for the ride. She played bridge for 70 years and then decided at age 90 to learn Mahjong—because apparently, she needed a new challenge.
And just when most people are slowing down, Alice was speeding up—ziplining and even tubing on the lake at 90 years old. Most of us would be relaxing in a lawn chair at that age.
Alice was driven and full of life—someone who never stopped learning, competing, or embracing new experiences.
Alice is survived by children: Jan Zoanni (Dave), Joyce Lewis, James Gustafson (Ronda). grandchildren: Tara Moore, Tasha Smith, Matt Lewis, Kyle Lewis, KayCee Leingang, Shelby Gustafson; great-grandchildren: Lucy, Macklen, David, Thomas, Spencer, Kelton, Sayler, Ryker, Macallan, Brooks and Banks; sister: Colette Hamele.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Saint Mary Catholic Community, 1700 Missoula Ave, in Helena. A reception will follow the Mass in the fellowship hall of the church.
Service Schedule
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Saturday April 25, 2026
Saint Mary Catholic Community
1700 Missoula Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Saturday April 25, 2026
Saint Mary Catholic Community
1700 Missoula Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
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Lori Nelson says
Alice was the first person I met in Fairview MT. I happened to sit next to her one Sunday at church. After Mass –
She asked if I was new. I told her I was going to teach 4th grade. She said wow- I am a first grade teacher. Then she told me I had a nice singing voice and that I should
Be a cantor. I did become a cantor and taught with Alice for the 5 years that I was in Fairview. She was the kindest and sweetest person! I know she will be missed!
Vicki Chase Bates says
A remarkable “neighbor” indeed. How grateful I am to have had the opportunity to visit Alice in the summer of 2022, after many years of absence from this accomplished friend. Her happy smile will forever be remembered as dear family friend and kind lady, “next door!”
Barbara Reidle says
I have very fond memories of Miss Kraft as I first knew her She taught for many years in the Fairview School system She was a active part of the Fairview Community for many years My sympathy to her family as I am sure she will be missed by all
Diane Salois-Hanson says
My family was one of the fortunate ones to know Alice when we moved to Fairview. Godspeed, Alice.
Charles and Julie Ann Flynn says
We loved her dearly. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend. We have a lot of good memories. She was a remarkable woman.