Billings Gazette Billings, MT 18 Feb 2007 HARDIN - A strong will, a determination to live, and the love of her family were the allies of Mary Elaine Schanaman Pitsch in her battle against chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. The battle was lost on Feb. 15, 2007, at the age of 66. Her spirit is now free from the ailing body that imprisoned it. Elaine was born on Oct. 9, 1940, in Bridgeport, Neb., to Conrad and Lydia Schanaman. Both preceded her in death, along with an infant brother, Ralph. She was raised in the Hardin area, where she also received her education. Elaine was full of adventure and loved her animals and the outdoors. She married David Pitsch in 1958. Together, they farmed and ranched in the Crow Agency area, where they raised their four sons. They later divorced. Elaine worked at the Yellowtail Dam, and then became a partner in Geo's Place in Crow Agency. After a fire destroyed the establishment, Elaine then built and managed her own store, The Center Store, in Crow Agency until she was unable to do so because of her total disablement caused by MS. Elaine continued to enjoy life through the love and support of her family. Her greatest enjoyment was her grandchildren. She was always happy to hear of their adventures and accomplishments, big or small, and she was always there for them. Simple things brought joy to Elaine. She loved having the birds fed and being able to watch them eat through her bedroom window. She loved flowers and all of her plants. Her four sons, David of Garryowen, Dan of Harlingen, Texas, Dale of Hardin, and Dean of Hardin, survive Elaine, along with her grandchildren, Davey, Darbey, Demi, Erica, Devin, Darren, Austin and Kade, and a great-grandson, Tristan Dale. Elaine is also survived by her brother, LeeRoy (Pearl) Schanaman of Hardin; her sister, JoAnne (Ted) Kerst of Spokane, Wash.; and nieces, nephews and other relation. Elaine will be deeply missed by her family and friends. The family would like to express their deepest and sincerest appreciation to all of the caregivers through the past several years that helped Elaine and became part of her extended family. Elaine is now at peace. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the Hardin E & R Church. A luncheon will follow. Inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the MT Chapter of the National MS Society. Bullis Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements