Lola Mae Matthews

Lola Mae Matthews, 76, died Friday, June 25th at her home in Hi-Line Retirement Center, Malta, Montana. She was born March 31, 1945 to Clifford and Pearl Rustad in Royal Oak, Michingan.

Lola moved to Montana with her parents eventually settling in Malta. Her father Clifford died in 1946 when Lola was 9 months old.

Lola attended schools in Malta, graduating in the class of 1963. After graduation she attended beauty school in Great Falls, Montana and became a licensed hair dresser and would eventually open her own beauty salon in Malta, Lolas Beauty Shop.

Lola married George Smith in Malta, MT in 1965. Of that marriage Lola’s son Neil was born in 1966. Lola and George later divorced.

Lola met Dewain Matthews in Malta and were married in Clyde Park, MT in 1970, with sister and brother in law, Loretta and Ted Stephens standing up for them. At the time Lola became a loving step mother to Danny, Larry and Michael Matthews.

Lola and Dewain farmed in the Loring community, north of Malta until semi retiring in 1980 when they moved to Malta and spent winters in Yuma, AZ. Many summer vacations were spent in Canada fishing for Walleye and Northern Pike that Lola cooked to perfection. Lola also started a Home Interior business with many parties and great success.

In Yuma, Lola continued her hair dressing talents and met many new friends which led to many karaoke parties. She loved music and sang karaoke with many friends in Yuma and Malta. She was a great singer and became a member of The Red Hatters Club.

Lola was a very caring and loving person, always thinking the best of everyone she knew and met. Her door was always open and generous to all.

We are thankful and appreciate the exceptional care and support given Lola by Alan and Christine Snider and their children. Also a special thanks to the Hi-Line Retirement and staff as well.

Lola is survived by her son Neil Smith, Spokane, WA, stepsons Danny Matthews, Payson, AZ, Larry (Susan) Matthews, Malta. Brother, Clifford Rustad, Malta. Sister Loretta (Ted) Stephens, Clyde Park, MT. Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Dewain. Step son, Michael Matthews. Sisters, Marlys (Dan) Snider, Rachel (Wayne) Barrett. Sister in law, Judy Rustad, her parents and step father Paul Kroop.

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