Traci Stolte

Traci Lee (Moran) Stolte passed away on October 29, 2020. She was surrounded by love, light, and all of her immediate family.

Born November 2, 1973 in Columbus, MT, she was the daughter of Thomas and Patricia Moran. She grew up with her brother, Travis, in Laurel, MT before moving to Whitefish her sophomore year.

Traci’s heart had room for everyone – her children, her family and friends, even a stranger on the street. Most significantly, she adored her husband and high school sweetheart, Caleb Stolte.  Married for over 25 years, together they created a beautiful family of five, a business, and countless memories filled with adventure, laughter, and admiration.

Giving and gifted, she gave herself completely, always willing to help her family, friends, and her community. Be it grooming a dog, shaking up a cocktail, or keeping the railroad clean, she approached every endeavor with enthusiasm, curiosity, authenticity, and humor.

“She lived with intention,” a close friend said, “She took the time to let the people she loved know they were loved every single day.”

The contributions Traci made to the Whitefish community are countless – from overseeing the Backpack Assistance Program, putting the flags out for the Whitefish Lion’s Club, or competing in the Glacier Challenge, rarely did she refuse an opportunity to roll up her sleeves and make a difference in the community she held dear.

Tenacious yet gracious, she adored the outdoors and embraced every opportunity to challenge herself, push limits, and defy the odds. After competing in her fifth 24 Hours of Flatheads mountain bike race with her husband last year, Traci said:

“I remember years ago when Caleb was trying to teach me how to ride a mountain bike, he said, ‘when you get to the top of the climb, always put it in your big gear and keep pedaling, don’t stop because you’re at the top.’ This applies to my life. I have always kept pedaling. Today I find myself humbled, proud, tired, slow, happy, but above all lucky to be right where I am. I think the hardest hills we climb are in our minds.”

Traci’s infectious smile and positive outlook will be cherished and remembered by her father, Tom Moran; her brother, Travis Moran; husband, Caleb; and their three children Luna, Azure, and Kiva Stolte – as well as countless relatives and friends and the Whitefish community at large. She was preceded in death by her mother.

The universe has gained a new star and she will continue to shine bright. Per Traci’s wishes, a funeral service will not be held. Instead friends and family are encouraged to keep pedaling. Love big, laugh hard, care for each other – and find the fun in absolutely everything you do. Forever seek out the love and light.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Traci Stolte, please visit our floral store.