Cynthia L. "Cindy" Ames

Corvallis - Cindy Ames, 62, of Corvallis passed away at home on Friday, March 11th after a long and inspiring battle with breast cancer.

Born May 16th, 1948 Cindy was raised in Portland, Oregon. Her father, Bruce Cox was an avid outdoorsman and Cindy enjoyed camping, fishing and vacationing in nature with her family. She sang in her church and High school choirs, and her perfect pitch earned her a spot in the All-State Choir.

Cindy attended Oregon State University where she continued to sing and met her first husband, Larry Johnson. They had 2 children, Bret and Tyler, but did not stay married long. Cindy loved to keep upbeat, and raised the boys always in a house full of music, dance and song. Her positive, caring side shone through in her job working as a server at Roses restaurant, where she was loved by her many regular customers.

Cindy also played on a foosball league where she met her future husband and life partner, Ed Ames in 1978. It was love at first sight and they eventually married in 1984. Together they and the boys enjoyed the outdoors as much as possible: camping, fishing, and rafting. They loved spending time on the Deschutes River so much, that their wedding ceremony took place on rafts, floating downstream.

Ed and Cindy had a son together, Shawn Ames, and moved to their favorite vacation spot, Montana in 1993. They settled in at Corvallis for its small town charm, school system, and beautiful views. Cindy worked at the Banque Club and later at Ford's Department store, both in Hamilton.

Cindy was an avid reader, loving a good mystery or Steven King novel. She was also a great Scrabble player, who loved a good match, and was tough to beat.

Cindy had a very kind heart, and was always doing what she could to make everyone around her happy. She loved life, and a smile was her trademark.

Cindy is survived by her Husband, Ed Ames of Corvallis, sister Melody Sundin of Portland, OR, nieces Andrea and Darcy , son Bret Johnson and wife Jen and grandchildren Althea and Twyla of Stratford, CT, son Tyler Johnson of Santa Monica, son Shawn Ames of Missoula, and other relatives too numerous to list.

The family suggests that memorials be made to the Marcus Daly Hospice Endowment Fund, 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT, 59840.