Lillian June Klawitter
Lillian June Klawitter (née McVannel), 95, of Bear, Delaware, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on July 22, 2026.
Lillian was born in Saginaw, Michigan. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Home Economics with a minor in Biology from Michigan State University and later received a Master’s Degree in Guidance Counseling from the University of Montana.
Lillian devoted more than 26 years to education, teaching at Hellgate, Sentinel, and Big Sky High Schools in Missoula, Montana. Throughout her career, she was dedicated to helping young people learn, grow, and succeed. She was an active leader in her profession, serving as a member of the American Home Economics Association, president and secretary of the Montana Vocational Association, and president of the Missoula County High School Montana Education Association. In addition to her educational career, Lillian proudly served as an officer in the Civil Air Patrol.
Outside the classroom, Lillian found joy in sewing, quilting, painting, reading, gardening, and traveling. She had a lifelong love of learning and creativity, and she shared her talents generously with family and friends.
Lillian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph A. Klawitter, and her daughter, Laura Moire. She is survived by her children, Victoria June Hoffman, Michael Ralph Klawitter, and Mark Ralph Klawitter; eleven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; as well as extended family and many friends who will cherish her memory.
Above all, Lillian was a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and friend. Her kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and loved ones. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery, where Lillian will be laid to rest beside her husband, Ralph A. Klawitter.
Kate Shumaker
So sorry about your mom’s passing. You did a great job caring for her!
Linda Siegfried
Lillian was a lovely person. Only knowing her for a short time as her stay with her daughter. Her love for flowers and sweets. I will cherish her love for a good tea party. You were a blessed person if you had the pleasure to have her in your life. She was one on the kindest people I have known
She will be missed
Love
Linda Siegfried.
Cathie Filipkowski
We are so sad for the loss of your wonderful Mother. You took such amazing care of her and I know she enjoyed when you would get to go out together. Lillian was such a sweet person. Always a smile when they would pull in our driveway to say hello. She will be missed.
Crystal Sparrow-Young
May she rest in peace forever!
JoAnne Stewart
Lillian was a real “lady”. She enjoyed serving tea at Forestry Triangle tea parties in Missoula, Montana.
Lillian was featured in a national Red Hat magazine demonstrating color choices for clothing.
Thanks for sharing her accomplishments.
Gregory Hoffman
Rest in peace. Lillian had a blessed life, she was also a practical joker, like the time she tricked us into eating elk meat thinking it was well done roast beef. It’s a funny story now. I will keep this memory of her with all the others. God Bless the Klawitter family.
Susan
Mrs Klawitter was one of my teachers at Hellgate High School in Missoula. (9/1978 to 5/1982) She was always kind, her classes were interesting. Very kind lady.
Hoping you will hold your memories close. I know you will miss her.
Kathy Hayde
I first met Lillian in 1974. She was my friend Viki’s mom so I was kept abreast of both Ralph and Lillian’s lives and I occasionally would visit with them when they travelled east. I was so happy when Lillian moved to Delaware about 7 years ago and she could visit our home. When that no longer worked we met at restaurants between Bear and Phoenixville and enjoyed each other’s company. I was honored to be invited to her 95th birthday party. What a special party! She looked lovely and was visited by much of her family and friends. Lillian was truly a special friend and I will miss her. May you rest in peace Lillian.