Nancy Catherine (Kohles) Garnes

Nancy Catherine (Kohles) Garnes, known as the “Heart Lady” in and around Great Falls, has gone to heaven. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 15 years ago, the condition took her physical health but could not diminish her sweet, caring, and loving personality. Needless to say, she was adored by her family, friends, and, frankly, anyone who met her. Her infectious kindness and fun-loving sense of humor made everyone around her feel at ease. Despite her health challenges, Nancy lived her life with joy.

Nancy cherished shopping, spending time with her family and friends, and found a creative outlet in her stained-glass hobby. Many were gifted with her beautiful pieces, painstakingly made, which will now serve as treasured mementos of her love and creativity.

Nancy and Earl Garnes wed on May 20, 1972, at St. Joseph’s Church. Following Earl’s discharge from the United States Air Force, they moved to the Denver, Colorado, area where they started a drain cleaning business. In 1986, they relocated the business to Great Falls, Montana. Nancy enjoyed working alongside Earl for many years, supporting him as the President of their family business.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband, Earl Garnes; her son, Doug Garnes, and his wife, Christin Garnes; grandson, Kellen; and granddaughter, Paige. She will also be dearly missed by her siblings: Linda Kohles, Jim and Marilyn Kohles, Pat (Kohles) and Bill Wilhelm, Carol (Kohles) and Garry Booth; her brothers-in-law, Kenneth and Roy Garnes; as well as by her nieces, Lisa and Lura, and nephews, Jim, Jack, and Nik. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Dillon Garnes, and her parents, Virgil and Ethel Kohles.

In her final days, she was lovingly cared for by Laura Taylor, who was not just a caregiver but also a cherished friend.

Nancy's infinitely kind and loving spirit leaves a void that is deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.  The Garnes family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in lieu of flowers and gifts.

Celebration of life will be held on June 1, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge.