Gladys Sliva

Gladys Anne Sliva left this earth to brighten heaven on June 11, 2016 at the age of 79. She leaves an empty spot in the hearts of all who knew her.Gladys was born November 18, 1936 in Norwich, England. She was the youngest girl in a family of 13 children. Gladys worked at a shoe factory until she met her husband, Albert Sliva, while he was stationed in England. Gladys and Albert had three children, Glenn, Dawn and Kimberly Ronni.In 1976, Great Falls, Montana became home for Gladys and her family. It was surely to the good fortune of Great Falls, as Gladys spent the next 30+ years making a difference in the community. She worked for many years as a CNA at local nursing homes. She loved the feeling of being helpful to others.Shortly after moving to Great Falls, Gladys began her dog showing career, training and showing a number of breeds of dogs, including west highland white terriers, dachshunds, and cocker spaniels. She earned many trophies and many advanced titles with her dogs. She inspired daughter, Kimberly, to take up the sport--traveling to many shows together.In the early 80's, Gladys became a valued member of the Great Falls Dog Training Club. Over the years, she served as president, vice-president, trial chairperson, hospitality chairperson, and club awards--holding each position more than once over the years! Perhaps her most valuable contribution was teaching training classes. Gladys taught obedience classes for 25+ years! She took a personal interest helping every student to be successful.In the 1990s, Gladys began breeding and showing Maine Coon cats. Her cats earned championships easily, some even becoming quadruple grand champions.Her children introduced her to pool, another great hobby that she mastered! She won many pool tournaments and had many trophies and awards for her keen use of the cue!Gladys was a kind, caring person, always thinking of other people. She had a way of knowing when help was needed and was always right there, to offer a helping hand, sage advice, a listening ear or simply some humor. Her cup of tea accompanied her everywhere she went!Gladys is survived by her children, Glenn Sliva, Dawn Sliva, Ronni Kimberly and spouse Gary Goodan; beloved granddaughter Heather and spouse Mitchell Pieratt; two great-grandchildren, Ethan and Jack Pieratt; and numerous relatives living in her native England.A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Burial of ashes will follow at Highland Cemetery. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.