Carol Alaine Melchior, 59, passed away on May 14, 2024 after a courageous eight-year battle with colon and metastatic breast cancer.

Carol was born January 20, 1965 in Great Falls, MT, the youngest child of Kenneth and Beverly Gallik. Carol grew up in Bozeman and graduated from Bozeman Senior High School in 1983. In 1984, Carol embraced the joy of motherhood with open arms. Her life was transformed with the arrival of her cherished daughter, September Morn, whose birth marked a new chapter filled with boundless love and cherished memories. She attended the University of Kansas before graduating with her teaching degree from Montana State University (Go Cats!)

In 2011, Carol married her best friend and soul mate, Gary. The two enjoyed entertaining family and friends, including weekend bonfires and the occasional garage dance party. Summer weekends were best spent at the family cabin where they enjoyed family and outdoor adventures.

In Carol's 29-year teaching career, with pleasure and enjoyment, she shaped the minds and touched the hearts of numerous children.

Carol was a proud and devoted grandmother to her grandchildren, Liam and Nora, who brought immense joy and light into her life. She treasured every moment spent with them, creating lasting memories and sharing her wisdom and love.

Carol was known for her culinary exploration, trying new recipes and re-creating recipes from her youth. Always the life of the party, Carol was coined the nickname the "Cruise Director."  Carol was always thinking of new adventures for the house, yard, and family cabin. But most of all, she was known for her distinctive laugh, and infectious personality.

Carol was preceded in death by her mom, Bev Gallik, and nephew, Sean Gallik.

Carol is survived by her husband, Gary, of Montana City; daughter, September Harper (Matt); father, Ken Gallik; brother Brian Gallik (Amy) all of Bozeman; sister, Sandra Chuang (Yueh) of Helena; grandchildren, Liam and Nora Harper (Bozeman) and numerous nephews and nieces, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Carol will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Her spirit and contributions to this world will never be forgotten.

A special thank you to Dee DeMato for her unwavering help and support throughout Carol's cancer battle. Her compassion and assistance have made a significant difference and are deeply appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Casting for Recovery (https://castingforrecovery.org).

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 4 PM at Simple Cremation Montana, located at 315 E 6th Avenue, Helena, MT.