Darlene Ann (Harris) Gramza

Darlene A. Gramza, 69 of Victor, passed away Saturday, December 9, 2017 at her home with her husband, Raymond Gramza, and her two sons, Jared and Clint by her side. She was born on May 3, 1948 in Hollywood, California, the daughter of the late Garland Harding Harris and Laura Lee Harris.

Darlene was raised in Encino, California and began her working career in a call center. Darlene’s work ethic allowed her to advance quickly and eventually landed herself a job as an office manager and bookkeeper of the thermal lance manufacturer, Burning Bar in Reseda, California.

In 1971, Darlene then met her future husband Ray, who rescued her from a serious waterskiing accident, where she broke her knee. Darlene eventually healed and they didn’t see each other for another year until they met again by chance, in the same location they had met a year prior.

Darlene and Ray fell in love and were married February 15, 1973 in Encino, California. In 1976, they moved to Agoura, California where Ray became a licensed plumbing contractor for the State of California and started his own business. Darlene quit her job and became partner in this new adventure.

In 1979, Darlene gave birth to her first son, Jared Allen Gramza. In 1980, Darlene and her family moved to Victor, MT where they purchased 40 acres and have lived ever since. In 1983, her second son was born, Clinton Ray Gramza and at that time, Ray obtained his Montana State Master Plumber’s license. Darlene continued to be a full-time mother of two and managed the new business which became a well established and successful part of the Bitterroot Valley community.

Darlene was an exceptional athlete her entire life. Her hobbies included hiking, camping, fishing, waterskiing, snow skiing, hunting, bowling, golfing and spending time with her family. Darlene was extremely proud of her two sons. In addition, she was a member of the Hamilton Ladies Golf Association where a hole-in-one is a goal among all members, regardless of gender. Darlene was skilled enough to get 3 hole-in-ones in her golfing career and was often first place in many of the tournaments she entered. Many people envied her swing, including her husband. Darlene was humble, too. She was the kindest, most generous person you would have ever met and was loved by many. She always put everyone else first including her family and would have gladly given you the shirt off her back. She will be missed.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Ray Gramza of Victor; two sons, Jared Gramza of Denver, Colorado and Clint and his wife Anna Gramza of Billings, Montana; her three nephews, Paul Harris of San Diego, California, Mark Harris of Winnetka, California and Brian Gramza of Casselberry, Florida; and her best friends, Phil and Karen Gangwish of Wellington, Nevada; and countless loved and cherished friends.

Per Darlene’s request, no funeral services were held. The family suggests that memorials or any honor donations be made in her name to the American Cancer Society.  www.cancer.org/involved/donate/memorial-giving.html

Condolences and E-cards may be sent to:  Ray Gramza, 1187 Creek View Lane. Victor, MT 59875 or DarleneG.memorial@gmail.com