Leslie Claudia Hunsinger, 67

Leslie Hunsinger, 1957-2024, recently passed on April 8, 2024, after a courageous three-year battle with liver cancer surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born to Hans and Toni Jungster at the Kalispell hospital on Feb. 27, 1957. Hans was a World War II veteran in the 10th Mountain Division prior to meeting Toni at the University of Washington.

Leslie grew up in Apgar with the glory of Glacier Park as her background. Happiest in the beauty of nature, she played in the waters of Lake McDonald in the spring and on the shore of Kintla Lake during family camping trips in the fall.

She originally went to West Glacier grade school and graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1975. After attending and graduating from the University of Montana, Leslie joined the family business, the Montana House gift shop in Apgar Village, where she wove her passion for Montana’s nature, wildlife, and artistry into her daily life.

Leslie married Gerry Hunsinger and lovingly took root in Columbia Falls in 1992. Their home became the embodiment of love and a monument to the crafts and artistry of Montana, not to mention a few Garfield and Snoopy figures here and there. While Leslie and Gerry may have narrowly missed their 47th anniversary, their steady and loyal love lives on.

She is survived by her husband, Gerry; sister, Monica; and doting nieces, nephews and incredible friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandmother, Erna; and Aunt Lore, whom she loved dearly.

If you feel called to donate in Leslie‘s name, please note that while the family does not have a specific charity or service in mind, we ask that you cherish artistry and preserve nature and its occupants as Leslie did.

A celebration of Leslie‘s life will be held between 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 28, at their family home.