Ila Mae Croff, 86, of Belle Fourche, SD, died Monday, October 27, 2008 at Spearfish Regional Hospital.

Memorial services will be at 2:00PM on Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel of Spearfish, with Pastor Peg Grzelkowski officiating.

Ila was born August 6, 1922 at Keene, ND to Mr. & Mrs. Olaf Hansen. She attended rural school through 8th grade. She graduated from high school at Watford City, ND, and graduated from Dickinson State College with a teaching degree. She taught school for 34 years – enjoying every year.

Ila had 3 sisters and they as well as their parents enjoyed music. They all played instruments and had a family orchestra for several years. The girls had to save their dance money to help pay their way through college.

Ila married Wally Croff after he returned from the European Theater of war, serving in the 22nd Airborne Paratroopers. They lived in Watford City, ND, for a number of years before they moved to Spearfish, SD, where they opened Bell Motor Lodge. Upon retiring they moved to Belle Fourche, SD, a lively and interesting community which they enjoyed.

Ila is survived by her husband Wally Croff and one son Paige Croff both of Belle Fourhce, her grandchildren; Aaron Croff of Belle Fourche, Jessica Croff of North Carolina, Lorr Janson of Spearfish, Meshanna Janson of North Carolina, Scott Croff and Stephanie Croff both of California. Ila enjoyed all of her grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Ellie Safratowich of Butte, MT.

Ila was preceded in death by her son Ward Bradley who was killed in the Lead Gold Mine and one grandson Daniel Croff.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels & Crematory Service of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written by: www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com