These are the most recent obituaries appearing in The Miles City Star.

*If you are interested in a past obituary, the Star will attempt to locate it if you are able to provide an exact date of death, if you are certain it ran in our paper and if it is relatively recent. Otherwise, we do not archive our obituaries and have very little staff time to make frequently requested searches. We suggest you check with the local library for more intensive searches. To contact the Miles City Public Library, e-mail: mcpl@midrivers.com or see Web site at www.milescitypubliclibrary.org Thank you.

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Updated May 16

 

Wayne Roger Eddy Jr.
Wayne Roger Eddy Jr., 55, of Miles City died Tuesday, May 15, 2012, at the Veterans Affairs Nursing Home in Miles City after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mr. Eddy was born in Fargo, N.D., on Oct. 22, 1956, the son of Wayne Roger and Elizabeth Ruth Erickson Eddy. Soon after his birth, the family moved to Billings where he grew up. He attended Senior High School in Billings where he graduated.
He joined the United State Army, serving in Germany during the Vietnam War and learned a career in explosives and detonation. He took this knowledge and applied it to seismographing for 15 years. He enjoyed being out in the middle of nowhere, including the middle of the ocean for two years, seeing things very few people get to see.
Mr. Eddy also worked as an airplane mechanic in Billings. He settled in Miles City with Julie Mahler, the love of his life, and worked with his brother Dan at Peavey and his brother Dave at Paint & Design.
Mr Eddy enjoyed fishing and camping, floating the Yellowstone, a cold beer as well as building the family hot rods and a good burnout. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and a special love for his dogs. He always made the best of each day and lived his life to the fullest. One of Mr. Eddy’s quotes he commonly told his children was “Don’t fret the small things in life.”
His survivors include his mother: Elizabeth (Eric) Fridrichson of Billings; his children: Roger Eddy, Ronnie Goldberg, Angela Eddy, John (Kylee) Monica and Curtis Mahler; two brothers: Dave Eddy and Danny Troy Clayton; a sister: Patti Troy; and numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren, all of Miles City and Billings.
He was preceded in death by a sister: Marie; a brother: Robert; mother of his children, Elizabeth Lindau; the love of his life, Julie Mahler; and their two dogs: Spike and Lacy.
Funeral services will be Monday, May 21, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Miles City with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1579. 
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Eddy family to help with costs.

 

 

Anne Potter
Anne Potter, lifetime resident of Miles City, died peacefully at home on Friday, May 11, 2012.
Born Anna Teresa Schulteis on June 13, 1916, to Henry and Mary (Krumenacker) at the family home on North Strevell Avenue, Mrs. Potter was the second of three girls. She attended school in Miles City and worked at the Miles City Steam Laundry as well as for the telephone company.
In the early 1940s, she enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps as a telephone operator. She was very proud of her military background. Her colorful tour of duty included being stationed in England, France and Germany.
On completion of her military service, she returned to Miles City where she met the love of her life, Charles Potter Jr. They were married on Nov. 9, 1947. Soon after their marriage, they started building what would eventually become their lifelong home on Wilson Street. In 1951 they began adding to their family with the birth of their daughter Linda, followed by their son Robert in 1953.
Family was Mrs. Potter’s true passion. She loved to have parties and picnics for family and friends, whatever the occasion. A wonderful homemaker and fabulous cook, her cookie jar was never empty of tasty oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
She was an avid gardener, enjoyed a good book and loved being with her granddaughters, reading to them and playing card games together. She always insisted on a family vacation, even if it was only a camping trip. Vacations to Germany, Switzerland and Hawaii were among her favorites.
At the time of her death Mrs. Potter was the longest residing resident of the Eagles Manor in Miles City, having lived there for more than 25 years. She loved her home at the manor and cherished the many friendships she made there.
Her survivors include her daughter, Linda L. Thompson of Dayton, Ohio; son, Robert of Miles City; and granddaughters,  Dr. Jennifer Thompson and Stephanie Thompson, both of Denver, Colo.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her two sisters, Barbara and Mary; and her beloved husband, Charlie, who died in 1984.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 17, 2012, from 4 to 6 p.m. with a prayer service starting at 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Friday, May 18, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars or the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation (PKDF) or the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Laraine "Babe" Malley

Laraine “Babe” Malley, 77, of Miles City died Saturday, May 12, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
Mrs. Malley was born on Aug. 17, 1934, to James and Maxine Monroe Smith at Broadus. She grew up and attended schools near the Boyes area until she went to Powder River High School in Broadus.
She and Edgar Malley were married on Feb. 4, 1950, in Broadus. Mrs. Malley made her living as a ranch wife, working side by side with her husband along with raising her three children, Ed, Patsy and Ray.
She enjoyed sewing, baking, fishing, tending to her garden and spending time with her family and friends.
She is survived by her three children, Ed (Joyce) Malley, of Moon Creek, Patsy Kaiser of Miles City and Ray Malley of Tongue River Road; one half brother, Earl Malley; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at 2:30 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.

 

 

Albert A. Ottoy

Albert A. Ottoy, 85, died Saturday, May 12, 2012, at his home.
Mr. Ottoy was born in Custer on Aug. 28, 1926, to Alfons and Irma (Van Hemelryck) Ottoy. He attended schools in Miles City. Following graduation he entered the United States Army serving during World War II.
Upon his honorable discharge Mr. Ottoy returned to Miles City where he helped take care of his mother and owned and operated Ottoy Construction until his retirement due to ill health in 2005. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
He was married to Shirley Ottoy on Aug. 28, 1994, and she survives him along with a host of nieces and nephews and Mrs. Ottoy’s children and grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Ottoy was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 17, 2012, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be Friday, May 18, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Rite of Committal will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1579. 
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.

 

 

Jackie Lee Barker

CSM Jackie Lee Barker, Ret., 77, of Mesa, Ariz., died Thursday, May 10, 2012.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga., with military honors.
Born in Seneca, Kan., Mr. Barker was a 1952 graduate of Beatrice High School in Beatrice, Neb. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1955 and retired in 1984 after 33 years of service. He was a 1973 graduate of the Sergeants Major Academy.
During his military career, CSM Barker served as CSM for the Readiness Region 5 at Fort Knox and was also Post Sgt. Major at Ft. McPherson from 1979-1981. In 1968 he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and the Purple Heart and Bronze Star while serving with the 4th Infantry Division in Vietnam. After his retirement, he became a military instructor at San Marcos Baptist Military School and was recalled to duty in 1990 for Desert Storm.
CSM Barker was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He also was chairman of Activities Committee at Sunset Resort in Arizona, where he resided with his wife, Clara.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Flossie Barker; brothers, Bob and Jim; sister, Betty; and step-children, Butch and Jacky.
Survivors include his wife, Clara Barker; daughter, Dawn Krahwinkel and husband, Anthony of Powder Springs, Ga.; sister, Patricia Tucker and husband, Jim of Beatrice, Neb.; sister-in-law, Carole Barker of Iowa; grandchildren, Alithea Corter-Bell and husband, Bryan of Los Angeles, Calof., Samantha McGowan of Miles City, Jonathan Milloy of Longview, Wash., and Brittany Lassle of Miles City; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Visit: westcobbfuneralhome.com for a complete obituary and online guest book.
Memorial contributions can be made to Army Community Services at Ft. Knox, 1-502-624-6291, Building 5101, 12th Armored Division Avenue, Fort Knox, KY 40121.

 

 

Elton G. Helland
Elton G. Helland, 91, of Miles City died Thursday, May 10, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
Mr. Helland was born on March 9, 1921, in Maudlin to Gus Helland and Rose Pettersen Helland. His early years were spent herding sheep with his father and working on the family homestead near Angela. In the late 1930s, he worked as a ranch hand for local ranches.
He served in the Army during the occupation of Germany in World War II. He entered the service on July 14, 1944, and was honorably discharged on July 30, 1946. After the war, he returned to the Miles City area. He helped build the Veterans Affairs facility and later farmed with his parents. He lived on his farm up until the time of his death.
Mr. Helland enjoyed owning and shooting a good firearm and sharing his knowledge of guns and reloading ammunition with his nephews. He appreciated visitors and enjoyed sharing stories with them.
His survivors include two brothers: Harold (Charlene) and Wayne (Bette Lou); a sister, Peggy (Jerry) Wall; a sister-in-law: Dorothy Helland; and several nephews and nieces.
Preceding him in death were his parents; a sister, Mildred Bois, and her husband, Ike; and brothers, Lawrence, Cliff and Roy.
Funeral services will be Monday, May 14, 2012, at 10 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1579.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Robert "Bob" Nelder Muri
Robert “Bob” Nelder Muri died Sunday, May 6, 2012. 
Mr. Muri was born in Cartersville on the home ranch Feb. 19, 1920. He was the son of RP and Nellie Johnson Muri. He was raised at Cartersville and graduated from Custer County High School and Junior College.
In 1943 he entered the Army and was honorably discharged in 1946. During that time he was shot down over Germany and was a prisoner of war for 15 months until Germany surrendered.
After leaving the service, Mr. Muri ranched with his brother on the family homestead, later moving to the Moon Creek and Tongue River area where he retired. 
On Dec. 8, 1945, he and Jean Lockie were married and to this union three children were born.
Mr. Muri is survived by his wife, Jean of 67 years; sons, Don (LaDell Wolfe) and Rob; daughter, Lonnie (Hal) Ross; one sister, Marie (Ansoms) and five brothers, Bill (Virgina Reid), Jim, Buck (Dannie Lockie), Karl (Joyce Criswell) and Pete (Anita Shores); sister-in-law, Helen Lockie Martin; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren: Chad Ross, Darin Muri, Lori (Shawn) Torstenbo — Shyler and Conner, Jodi (Josh) Woosley — Lane and Trever, Robyn Ross (Greg) Ste. Marie — Bailey, Spencer; Dax (Beth Gray) — Orin and Tailey; and numerous nieces and nephews. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Anna Mae Leischner; brother-in-law, Charles Ansoms; sister-in-law, Alice (Moyer) Muri; brother-in-law, Wallace Lockie; brother and sister-in-law, Andy and Lorraine (Lockie); and daughter-in-law, Gaye (Bozarth).
In lieu of Mr. Muri’s favorite repair tools, black tape and baling wire, should friends desire, donations may be made to the Red Cross Organization, which played a huge part in keeping the POWs alive in World War II. 
Military graveside services will be Friday, May 11, 2012, at 2 p.m. in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1579. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be held at the VFW Hall. Everyone is welcome.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Mary Kathryn "Kay" Williams Manning Murphy

Mary Kathryn “Kay” Williams Manning Murphy, former Miles City resident, died Saturday, April 7, 2012, in Bozeman.
She was born Oct. 14, 1921, in Miles City, the oldest of four children of George Thomas Williams and Olive Gilmore Williams. In 1939 she graduated from Custer County High School in Miles City.
She was a member of the first class of Custer County Junior College (now Miles City Community College), where she met her first husband, Willard Frank Manning. They were married in Glendive on Sept. 4, 1940. The couple lived briefly in Spokane, Wash., and Missoula until he was drafted into the armed services after his graduation from the University of Montana. After his discharge, they lived in Seattle, Wash., until 1948 when they moved to the Manning Ranch near Culbertson. During their years in Culbertson, they had three children, John Willard, Idelle Kathryn and James George. She had fond memories of the early years on the ranch, caring for her babies with no running water or electricity and cooking for many ranch hands, sometimes over an open fire. After Mr. Manning’s sudden and unexpected death in 1961, she and her children moved to Bozeman in 1962 to be closer to her sister, Jean Simkins.
On Dec. 15, 1962, she and Ted Murphy, an associate professor of mechanical engineering at Montana State University, were married adding to her three children his two: Theodore Franklin and Janet Elizabeth Murphy. Mr. and Mrs. Murphy lived the rest of their lives in Bozeman. While her children were at home, Mrs. Murphy was a homemaker with a tremendous interest and pride in all her children’s activities.
She was a Girl Scout leader for many years; she taught Sunday school; and chauffeured children to 4-H meetings, basketball games, football games, wrestling tournaments and track meets all over Montana. Best of all, the Murphy house was always open to all her children’s friends and they congregated there for years.
After her children were grown, Mrs. Murphy worked first for Big Sky Bearing and then, from 1976 until 1986, for the Montana State University Alumni Office. After Mr. Murphy’s death in 2001, Mrs. Murphy enjoyed apartment living for several years, first on South 9th Street and later at Aspen Pointe. Her final months were spent in the compassionate and dedicated care of the staff at Springmeadows Assisted Living.
Mrs. Murphy had a wonderful, full life, for which she was grateful. Over the years, she was a member of several bridge clubs, the Order of the Eastern Star, and volunteered for the Salvation Army. She loved travel; she and Mr. Murphy travelled much of the United States and Canada in their RV, and after his death, she travelled to the Holy Land with a Grace Bible Church group and took trips with the senior center. Until she gave up driving, she was a regular at the Ridge Athletic Club and loved her swimming classes there. Above all, she loved spending summer weekends at Hauser Lake with her extended family.
Mrs. Murphy had a strong faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. After becoming a born again Christian in 1964 she was a faithful member of Grace Bible Church for many years. She was also a member of Christian Women’s Club, Community Bible Study and was a charter member of Bible Study Fellowship in Bozeman. She took genuine delight in all of her Bible studies, in reading Christian literature, and in discussions about God’s incredible grace and salvation through Christ with anyone who was willing.
Her survivors include her sister, Jean Simkins, and Mrs. Simkins’ children Tom Simkins (Ronda), Bill (Erna) Simkins, Janet Simkins, and Mitch (Sheri) Simkins and their families]; her brothers, Ken Williams (Mary Anne), and Richard Williams (Prem), and their families; her children, Jack Manning (Peggy), Ted Murphy (Debbie), Idelle Manning, Janet Murphy (Bill Pickard) and Jim Manning (Lee); her grandchildren, Jaclyn Kinkaid (Jeff), John Manning, Ben Murphy, Will Pickard, Katie Manning, Brad Murphy, Molly Manning, Nick Pickard, Ted Pickard, Lindsey Manning, Johnny Manning, EJ Manning, Dan Marsh, Sean Marsh, and Megan Mall; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Mrs. Murphy was preceded in death by her husband, Willard Manning; her husband, Ted Murphy; her granddaughter, Kelly Kathryn Manning; and her grandson, Peyton Manning.
Mrs. Murphy’s family is grateful for the care that Springmeadows gave her; for the love and companionship of Ronda Simkins, her niece-in-law who was much more to Mrs. Murphy; and for Lee Manning, Mrs. Murphy’s daughter-in-law.
Funeral services were Friday morning, April 13, 2012, at Grace Bible Church in Bozeman. Dokken Nelson Funeral Services was in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences can be made at www.dokkennelson.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Theodore R. “Murph” and Kay Murphy Mechanical Engineering Technology Scholarship fund, c/o MSU Foundation, P.O. Box 172750, Bozeman, MT 59717-2750.

 

 

 

June Reukauf

June Reukauf, 86, of Miles City died Sunday, April 22, 2012, at the Cottonwood Care Home in Miles City.
Mrs. Reukauf was born to Andrew McMillan and Flora Parr McMillan in Terry. Her family ranched north of Terry and she attended country schools, and graduated high school from Terry in 1942. She worked a short time after high school at the Terry Tribune.
She then married the love of her life at the age of 19, Art Reukauf.  Together they ranched and started their family. After the war, they bought the McMillan Ranch from Mrs. Reukauf’s family. They also owned ranches in Australia, where they spent winter months a few different times throughout the years. In 1985, Mr. Reukauf died and Mrs. Reukauf continued to live on the ranch for eight more years. She then moved to Miles City in 1993, in a home she built. She spent her last two years at Cottonwood Care enjoying life.
Mrs. Reukauf will always be remembered for being “the best bread maker.” She also was an excellent seamstress on the old treadle sewing machine. Mr. Reukauf never wore a store bought shirt. In 1961 she purchased an electric sewing machine and was known for her colt halters, tarps and headstalls with agate buckles. She made western shirts for all the nephews and guys staying there. She will always be called the “Cribbage Queen,” especially when she was “lucky enough” to get to keep score. She was a great cook and was famous for her ground beef sandwiches, homemade rolls and cherry tarts.
She was always known for her love of life, fun and friends. She loved to dance, whether it was by herself in her kitchen or with Mr. Reukauf at the barn dances. These barn dances were held each year in the hayloft of “Big Red Barn” on the Reukauf Ranch. Friends were so important to her. Every morning there was a social gathering for tea and cookies at the kitchen table. In her house in Miles City, you had to call ahead so she could make plans to see you. Being a grandma was a huge part of her life. She was “Gram” to the grandchildren and “GG” to the greats.
Her survivors include two daughters: Dixie Berzel of Whitewood, S.D., and Lila Glade (Cliff) of Oglala, S.D.; three grandchildren: Wyatt Glade (Darcy), Cheyenne Glade Wilson (Shane) and ReAnn Berzel Crane (Tommy); five great-grandchildren: Quanah, Ira and Odessa Glade, Stone Wilson and Rylee Crane; and Kris Bartholomew Knuths, whom she considered a daughter.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Art; three brothers: Lyle, Roland and Warren McMillan; one Sister: Edna Thomas; and two grandchildren: Wade Berzel and KayLyn Berzel.
Funeral Services will be Monday, May 14, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Grace Bible Church in Miles City. Burial will follow at the Prairie County Cemetery in Terry.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials may be made to the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Range Riders Museum or the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Helen Jean Lindley
Helen Jean Lindley died on Friday, May 4, 2012, in Billings.
She was born on Aug. 20, 1930, in Bromley, Kent, England, to Leopold and Marguerite Cannar. She grew up in the same area, a suburb of London. During World War II this was on the route that enemy planes took to reach London, and the family house was damaged twice during air raids. A lot of her schooling was done in air raid shelters.
After the war she attended Bromley Art College, and her artistic talent was evident in her many works.
In 1949 she met Peter, her husband of almost 59 years, at a tennis club. In 1953 they were married in Bromley and lived in the London area for several years. They had three children: Jean, Claire and David. The family lived in England until 1967, when they immigrated to the United States and settled in Pennsylvania. Mrs. Lindley adapted well to life in the USA and became a citizen in 1976.
The family enjoyed camping every year in different parts of the country, and Mrs. Lindley particularly loved the West, where the family eventually settled.
The most important thing to her was to raise, love and care for her family. She never wanted to be in the limelight, but she was a pillar of strength in the background for Mr. Lindley and her children. She was loving, kind and always put the needs of others ahead of her own.
Mrs. Lindley overcame some very difficult times in her life, including the trauma of World War II, the death of her son and chronic health problems, yet she faced adversity with grace, strength, and her quiet heroism.
In 1980, Mrs. Lindley received the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior, and endeavored to serve Him through the rest of her life. She was a true example of a loving and caring Christian, and touched the hearts of many people.
She is survived by her husband, Peter of Miles City; two daughters, Jean Lindley (Jack McNamee) of Miles City and Claire Lindley of Littleton, Colo.; a sister, Jill (Stephen) Garrish of Warnham, England; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and five nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her son, David; and her parents.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Open Doors USA, an organization that ministers to persecuted Christians worldwide. Contact them at www.opendoorsusa.org or P.O. Box 27001, Santa Ana, CA 92799.
A funeral service will be Wednesday, May 9, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Valley Drive Baptist Church in Miles City.
Condolences may be sent to www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Ronette "Roni" Ball-Hein

Ronette “Roni” Ball-Hein, 48 of Forsyth, died Friday, May 4, 2012, near Vananda as a result of a car accident.
She was born Jan. 7, 1964, the daughter of Ron and Sheila Bradley Ball in Chula Visa, Calif. She attended school in California and in Forsyth and graduated from Forsyth High School in 1982.
She lived and worked in Arizona, Wyoming and Colorado before returning to Forsyth to raise her children. She was working for Hein Repair, with her companion Larry Hein, at the time of her death.
She loved to do crocheting, watching TV especially CSI, playing pool and cribbage. She enjoyed reading, Steven King being her favorite author. Most of all she loved being with her family. She was generous and caring, funny, smart and very hard working.
Her survivors include her longtime companion, Larry Hein; her children, Justin Haley and Destiny Hein; her step-son, Dalton Hein all of Forsyth; her parents, Ron and Sheila Ball of Forsyth; her sisters, Melissa Anderson of Billings and Elizabeth (Curt) Mavity of Forsyth; and extended family, Eddie and Pearl Hein of Forsyth, and Kim Hein of Texas.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jim and Hannah Ball and Hartley and Marguerite Bradley; and her uncles, Danny Bradley, Jon Bradley and Don Ball.
Visitation started in the morning on Tuesday, May 8, 2012, with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 9, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. Burial will follow in the Forsyth Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorial donations may be made to Ronette’s Memorial Account set up for her children at First State Bank of Forsyth, P.O. Box 379, Forsyth, MT 59327.

 

 

Judy Morton Johnston
Judy Morton Johnston passed away on April 22, 2012 in Seattle, WA at the age of 65 after her fierce but brief battle with cancer.
She was born in Miles City, Montana on Jan 12, 1947 to Frederick and Charlene Morton. She is survived by her children Ericka and Brian, five grandchildren, mother Charlene, and siblings Janice, Jeanette, and brother Jim.
She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend Clifford Johnston.
Judy enjoyed a rich and full life with time spent among friends and family, especially her grandchildren in later life. Her other great pleasure in life was her tax preparation business through which many clients became good friends.
She will be loved and missed greatly by all who knew her.
Memorial donations to a cancer group of your choosing.

 

 

Bobby Griswold
May 20, 1933 to April 27, 2012

Bobby Lee Griswold died at Hospice Austin’s Christopher House on April 27, 2012.
He was born at home in Merkel, Texas to Bonnie Alice Campbell Griswold and Ollie Griswold. His happiest childhood memories were of visiting Aunt Johnny and Aunt Irene’s home where they would play the piano and let him eat vegetables straight from their garden. He and his friends made most of their own toys, but a favorite possession was his pocket knife.
Bobby was very industrious as a child; he worked cleaning chicken coops, sweeping the drug store, folding papers, bagging groceries, picking cotton, and harvesting sugar cane. When Bobby and his mother moved to Abilene, he dropped out of school to work full-time at an optical shop where he learned to grind lenses. Continuing to hold a strong work ethic as an adult, he loaded trucks, followed the wheat harvest, drove a taxi, and worked as a park ranger at Mesa Verde National Park. Bobby joined the navy July 16, 1952 and while on leave met his true love, Gena Marie Powell. They were married for 52 years. He left the navy on July 10, 1956.
With the encouragement of his wife, he earned his GED and used the GI Bill to go to College. He obtained Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in History at North Texas State University. He taught middle school and high school in Texas and Arizona but eventually found his calling as a community college instructor in Miles City, Montana. He found pleasure in teaching and developing curriculum for his history, sociology, and political science classes. He went to great lengths to ensure the success of his students and alumni would often express appreciation for his enrichment of their lives. Like the president he admired most, Abraham Lincoln, Bob struggled with melancholy but seemed to find solace in his work.
Bob was always interested to meet people from different walks of life and other parts of the world. Wherever people were from, he knew something about their home or background that he used to make a connection. Bob had a long-standing concern about the environment, population density, and the widening discrepancy in wealth distribution between the 99% and the 1%.
Bobby loved his children and grandchildren. He said the hardest thing for him to leave in this world was granddaughter’s soft hand.
Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved wife Gena Griswold, his brother Jim Griswold, his mother, Bonnie A. Griswold and his brother-in-law Paul Powel. He is survived by his daughter Phyllis Jacoby and son-in-law Steve Jacoby of Austin, Texas; daughter Cara (Carrie) Griswold and partner Deborah Briggs of Kansas City, Missouri; daughter Cheryl (Beryl) Covone of Austin, Texas; son Karl Griswold and daughter-in-law Sara Zahendra of Lyme, New Hampshire; grandchildren Isaac Griswold-Steiner, Nils Griswold-Steiner, Connor Jacoby, Ruben Covone and Lydia Covone.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Miles Community College Endowment Fund or the Nature Conservancy. Obituary and memorial guestbook available online at obit.austinpeel.com.

 

 

Susan S. Devlin

Susan S. Devlin, 54, of Terry died Wednesday, May 2, 2012, at Billings Clinic in Billings.
The daughter of William Everett and Ruth Wiebe Segelke, she was born on July 26, 1957, in Sterling, Colo. She graduated from high school at Brush, Colo. She went on to college at Loretto Heights in Denver, Colo., and obtained a bachelor of science degree in nursing.
She and Todd Devlin were married on Sept. 15, 1984.
Her great pleasures in life included spending time with family, gardening, sewing, collectables, nursing, her faith and supporting as well as promoting Montana history. She loved to watch her three boys growing up and attending their various school and sporting events.
She is survived by her parents: Everett and Ruth Segelke of Hillorose, Colo.; her husband: Todd Devlin of Terry; three sons: Owen Devlin, Everett Devlin and Henry Devlin, all of Terry; three  sisters: Kim (Vic) Vondy of Sterling, Colo., Arlene (Darrell) Smith of Yuma, Colo., and Naomi (Frank) James of  Carr, Colo.; two brothers: Chris Segelke and Glen Segelke, both of Hillrose; one nephew: Dave (Brenda) Vondy and their children, Faith, Brody and Brock of Brush, Colo.; and one niece: Meredith Vondy of Brush.
Visitation will be Sunday, May 6, 2012, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry from 1 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be Monday, May 7, 2012, at 3 p.m. at the Terry High School Gymnasium in Terry. Interment will follow in the Prairie County Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice or the Prairie County Ambulance, Prairie County Hospital, Ursuline Convent Keepers, Miles City Youth Hockey, the Evelyn Cameron Foundation or Gallery.

 

 

Jim Prescott Price

Memorial services will be held at a later date for Jim Prescott Price, age 76, of Choteau, Mt and formerly of Ft. Benton, Mt who died Thursday, May 3, 2012 at the Teton Nursing Home in Choteau, Mt from natural causes. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Gorder Jensen Funeral Home of Choteau.
Jim was born June 15, 1935 in McVille, ND, the son of Elmer and Agnes (Jorgenson) Price. He was married to Marion “Toots” Hogoboom on Sept. 24, 1955 in Lakota, ND and they later divorced. He married Lori Sallgren on July 5, 1985 and they later divorced. Jim was a US Army veteran and a tool salesman and he also did carpentry work. Jim farmed in Tolna, ND specializing in raising turkeys.
Jim moved to Ft. Benton in 1980 from North Dakota and then to Miles City, MT in 1982. He returned to Ft. Benton in 2003 and then came to Choteau in 2011. He enjoyed carpentry work and playing pool and billiards. He was a member of the American Legion.
He is survived by his mother, Norma Wegernest of Oaks, ND, his children: Paula (Tony) Jaconetty of Choteau, MT, Jamie (Wendy)Price of Mooresville, NC, Nancy (Joe) Steckler of Las Vegas, NV, Cole (Brenda) Price of Ft. Benton, MT, and Breanna Price of Miles City, MT and Jonathan Price, of Sidney, MT; a sister: Mary Ann Price of Brainerd, MN, Ray Price of Townsend, MT and Richard Price of Jamestown, ND; grandchildren: Mick Larson of Ft. Collins, CO, Shea Larson of St. George, UT, Kelly Steckler of Korea, Sheena Blessing of Newberry Springs, CA, Jessica Price of Lisbon, ND, Treva Price of Ft. Benton, MT, Janie, Nicole and Kayla Clarke, all of Mooresville, Ca; and great-grandchildren: Audrey Larson of Ft. Collins, Co, Ashton, Ellie and Reid Larson, all of St. George, UT and Karlynn Steckler of Korea.
He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Agnes Jorgenson, his father, Elmer Price, a son: Darrin Price, and a brother, Dick Price.
Memorials are suggested to the Teton Nursing Home; Choteau, MT. Online condolences may be left at www.gorderjensenfuneralhome.com

 

 

Edna Rogerson

Edna Rogerson, 75, of Terry, died at home on Monday, April 30, 2012.
Mrs. Rogerson was born on Oct. 30, 1936, at home in Watkins, the daughter of Henry and Lydia Knopp Moos. She was raised on her parents’ homestead and moved to Terry in 1948.
She and Eugene Rogerson were married on Sept. 12, 1958. Together they operated Rogerson’s Hobby Shop, first specializing in ceramics and then Montana agates. Through many years in working with agates she became recognized as an artist and an agate expert. The couple also operated a campground. Through these businesses Mrs. Rogerson met many lifelong friends.
She loved music and played in a band when she was a teenager. Mrs. Rogerson was an amazing piano player and enjoyed sharing her music with seniors at the hospital. She also enjoyed her coffee dates with friends and doing crossword puzzles. She loved being on the river, fishing and agate hunting which she turned into beautiful works of art. She compassionately cared for many stray animals.
Mrs. Rogerson was a member of the Community Presbyterian Church, the American Legion Auxiliary for more than 55 years, a member of the clinic board of directors and former member of the Chamber of Commerce.
She is survived by her brothers, Edwin Moos and Albert Moos; a sister, Ella Fredrickson; sons Patt Emerson, Mallory Emerson, Ron Rogerson and Kelly Rogerson; a daughter, Genna (Rogerson) Nashem; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by brothers, Emil Moos and Herb Moos; and sisters, Lillian Rath and Clara London.
Visitation will be Sunday, May 6, 2012, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry. Funeral services will be Monday, May 7, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the Community Presbyterian Church in Terry. Interment will follow in the Prairie County Cemetery. 
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Prairie Community Hospital and Clinic.

 

 

James Roger "Jim" Blotsky

James Roger “Jim” Blotsky, 69, of Miles City died Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at his home near Miles City.
Mr. Blotsky was born on the family homestead in Morton County, North Dakota, on Dec. 7, 1942, the son of Vitalius and Katherine Loshesky Blotsky. He grew up on the homestead until he was 7 years of age when the family moved to Billings. He attended grade school in Billings until the eighth grade when he began working with his dad.
Mr. Blotsky developed a love for music and at a young age, taught himself to play guitar and various other instruments.
He worked as a truck driver and did construction for a short time.
On March 4, 1970, he and Julie Dahms were married in Billings. Following their marriage, they moved to Gillette, Wyo., where he started working in the oil fields. Mr. Blotsky was eventually transferred to Miles City for work. In 1970 Mr. and Mrs. Blotsky had their first daughter, Darbie, and soon after in 1972 their second daughter, Marnie, was born. After living in Miles City for a short time, Mr. Blotsky began working for the school as a maintenance man and all around handy man.
He had a passion for the Yellowstone River and loved spending as much time as possible on it fishing. He loved playing the guitar, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.
His survivors include his wife: Julie Blotsky of Miles City; two daughters: Darbie (Jason) Karch and Marnie Blotsky, both of Miles City; two grandchildren: Brady and McKenzie Karch; a brother: Keith Blotsky; and three sisters: Gloria Spitzer, Jacqueline Czerniecki and Deloris Hushka.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Donald Blotsky; and a sister: Caroline Zahn.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 3, 2012, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Funeral services will be Friday, May 4, 2012, at 2 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Margaret Clark

Margaret Clark, 84, of Miles City,  died peacefully Friday April 27th.
She was born July 11, 1927, in South Heart, ND to John and Marie Malarchik. 
She grew up in Sully Springs, ND until moving to Glendive in 1934. She attended High School and Holy Rosary Nursing School in Miles City.
In 1944, she met June Clark and they were married on July 13, 1946. Margaret and June settled in Forsyth, MT and raised their eight children.
Margaret worked for the Forsyth School District for 25 years.  In 1992, Margaret and June moved to Miles City. Margaret enjoyed volunteer work. Her favorite programs were The Literacy Program, MC Chamber of Commerce, CC Art Center, Friends of the Convent, and Sacred Heart School.
She loved to travel. She enjoyed attending the musicals in Medora. Life was always a new adventure and everything was of interest. She lived life to its fullest.
Margaret was very loving and generous. If there was a way to help she found it in every situation. She had great faith and even in the toughest of times she had a positive attitude. She loved her family and every new grandchild was a new joy in her heart. She enjoyed baking, garage sales, a visit with a friend and a good laugh. 
Her husband June, parents and brothers, David and Arnold preceded Margaret in death.
She is survived by her eight children Marvin Auburn, WA; John (Eileen) Alsea, OR; Jim (Kathy), Mesa, AZ; Marie Vorbeck (Joseph) of Trinity, FL; Judy, Guatemala City; Lavina Bump (Thomas), Helena, MT; Tim (Hilda), Vancouver, WA; Rhonda Schennum, Richland, WA; 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic School in Miles City, MT 59301.
Rosary will be recited 6:00 pm Thursday in the Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Friday in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Private interment will be held in the Custer County Cemetery.
Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

 

 

Dana Robert Blanchard

Dana Robert Blanchard, 58, of Miles City died Sunday, April 29, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
Born in Concord, New Hampshire, on May 25, 1953, he was the son of Robert Maurice and Marilyn Gates Blanchard. He attended schools in Concord, N.H., and graduated from high school there.
Following his graduation, he entered the United States Army where he served in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Concord where he lived until 1994.
He then moved to Miles City where he worked for Eastern Montana Industries as a group worker for nearly 13 years. Due to a heart attack, he was forced to take an early retirement.
Mr. Blanchard loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, camping and fishing. He was an avid Red Sox and Patriots fan and enjoyed watching sports. He loved spending time with his family.
He is survived by three sons: Michael Blanchard of Helena, Jason Blanchard of Concord, N.H., and Jesse Blanchard of Miles City; two daughters: Nicole Blanchard-Radford of Grantham, N.H., and Tracy Blanchard of Concord, N.H.; three sisters: Denise Mathew of Limestone, Tenn., Diane Emeney of Miles City and Laurie Wilbur of Hillsboro, N.H.; and 10 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be Wednesday, May 2, 2012, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Thursday, May 3, 2012, at 1:30 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1579.

 

 

Esther Marie Borla
Esther Marie Borla, 95, of Boyes died April 27, 2012, at the Spearfish Regional Hospital in Spearfish, S.D.
Born Sept. 5, 1916, Mrs. Borla was the daughter of Carl H. Benson and Olive Olsen Benson. She was born on the South Dakota prairie in a sod house — the midwife who cared for her was the daughter of a slave.
Mrs. Borla attended grade school at Royal Center, S.D. She either walked to school with her older sister and brothers or they hitched a cart to their horse “Jerry” and traveled that way. Her sister, Florence, who was eight years older, helped her immensely her first year of school. She loved school and was an avid learner. She attended high school in Lead, S.D., graduating in 1934.
On June 30, 1937, she and Joe Borla were married. He was working at the gold mines in Trojan. In 1938, a daughter, Darleen, was born and in 1940 a son, Sam. Mr. and Mrs. Borla moved to Sunrise, Wyo., the fall of 1940 and Mr. Borla went to work in the iron ore mines. In 1943 Sally was born and in 1946 Joseph Jr. was born.
Another move came for Mr. and Mrs. Borla in 1948. This time it was to the family ranch at Boyes to help his parents. They soon purchased the ranch — they raised cattle and Mrs. Borla had a little bunch of sheep — she dearly loved her sheep.
Mrs. Borla was a member of the Boyes Community Club from 1949 until the present time. She also was Clerk of School District No. 22 from 1949 and retired in 1994. She enjoyed traveling with trips taking her to Florida, Oklahoma, the East Coast in Washington, D.C., Scotland, Ireland, London, Norway and Sweden. She especially enjoyed traveling to California for the holidays in her later years to spend time with her daughters.
She enjoyed reading, visiting with her friends, family and close neighbor, Lydia Capra, her garden, playing bingo, shopping at the IGA and Copps Hardware, getting her hair done, her rides to Broadus and occasional trips to South Dakota.
Mrs. Borla was a devoted family person and dearly loved her children — Darleen Nicholson, Sam Borla, Sally Borla and Joe Borla Jr. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, Mark T. Borla, Melanie Borla Butorac, Collin J. Borla, Quinn Borla, Melinda Borla Kelley, Andrea Borla, Shelley Adams, Michael George and David George; and 14 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joe in 1987; two sisters, Margaret Heather and Florence Harrington; and five brothers, Elmer, Stanley, Leonard, Howard and Carl.
     Funeral Services will be Wednesday, May 2, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. Burial will follow in the Boyes Cemetery with a luncheon to follow in the Boyes Community Hall.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Boyes Community Club or the Animal Shelter of choice.

 

 

Matthew "Matt" Kirk Russell

Matthew “Matt” Kirk Russell, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, died Friday, April 20, 2012, at the University of Washington Medical Center shortly after being diagnosed with an aggressive liver cancer.
Mr. Russell was born Dec. 13, 1949, in Seattle, Wash., and grew up on Bainbridge Island. In 1968 he went to Argentina as a foreign exchange student. The following year he graduated from Bainbridge High School and then went on to study at Olympic Community College and Western Washington University.
Mr. Russell loved working with his hands and sampled many occupations, but it was his passions that impacted his life.
His first passion was his love for the outdoors. With the Boy Scouts and his family, he hiked for miles, camped under the stars, fished alpine lakes and streams, paddled miles in canoes and saddled up for days on horseback. Traveling abroad he discovered Argentina’s Andes and the “pampas,” its large central plains. These places and adventures planted a seed in him that grew into a passion for open spaces, and vistas where you can see forever.
He also loved hunting and shooting. As an active member of the Bainbridge Island Sportmen’s Club, he was known as an excellent marksman and trap shooter. He applied these skills in a phase of his life that was yet to come. Varmints, especially coyotes, came to fear his presence.
Mr. Russell’s love for the open prairie and hunting took him to Billings in 1997. There a new passion was about to enter his life.
He began taking country dance lessons there and met Kate, the woman who would become his wife and life partner. It took them a while to figure it out. They thought they were just friends and dancing partners. However, their mutual friends knew otherwise and saw the impending match long before they did. They were married in Billings on May 4, 2000.
Mr. and Mrs. Russell moved to Miles City in 2006. His job there allowed him to drive and see much of the prairie he loved. Mr. Russell was known by his customers as that really nice tall man with gracious manners and a gentle smile.
He will be remembered for his love of broad vistas and dancing, a giving heart, and his bottomless strength.
His survivors include his wife, Kate; his daughter, Naomi Hubert of Seattle; his brothers, Robert Russell and wife, Jill of Bainbridge Island, and David Russell, and wife, Lisa of Seattle; and his nieces, Janna and Jannell Russell of Bainbridge Island.
Mrs. Russell’s son, Sean Shearer and wife, Ashly of Chico, Calif., daughter, Heather Becerra and husband, Mago and grandchildren, Jasmin and Tomas of Pine Bluffs, Wyo. were also an important part of Mr. Russell’s life. His best friends, Stu Turner and Pat Sinclair, will miss their hunting partner.
A celebration of his life is planned for August in Miles City as well as a Bainbridge Island gathering to be determined.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. 
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to a food bank of one’s choice, a local 4-H chapter or the Montana Wildlife Federation.

 

 

Don L. Pace

Don L. Pace, 56, of Helena died at home on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011, of an apparent heart attack.
Mr. Pace was born in Helena to Jim and Leah Pace on Nov. 13, 1955. He moved to Miles City with his parents as a small child. He attended Miles City schools and graduated from Custer County High School.
Later he moved back to Helena, settled in, and made it his permanent home. In 1993, he married Dawna Swindler in Helena. They had no children.
Mr. Pace is survived and missed by his wife, Dawna; his mother, Leah Pace of Miles City; and his sisters, Connie (Loren) Delaware of Kansas City, Mo., and Sondra (Mike) Harasymczuk of Miles City. He also is survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jim; and his grandparents, Loren and Martha Sisson of Miles City and Rosella Sayler of Fromberg.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2012, in the First Presbyterian Church at 535 N. Ewing in Helena. A reception will follow in the church’s reception area.
Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice or to the Eastern Montana Industries of Miles City.

 

 

Alma L. Peters

A graveside memorial service for Alma L. Peters of Miles City will be Saturday, April 28, 2012, at 1 p.m. in the Custer County Cemetery. Following the service, a reception will be held in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall, 119 N. Sixth St.

 

 

Jay Dee Singleton

Jay Dee Singleton, 84, of Miles City died Saturday, April 21, 2012, at his home in Miles City with his family by his side.
Mr. Singleton was born on Aug. 27, 1927, to Thomas Dee and Vera “Merle” Emmert Singleton at the hospital in Miles City. He attended first grade through eighth grade at the Tree Coulee elementary school. Mr. Singleton roomed with his aunt and uncle during high school, graduating in 1945. He was active in FFA.
Following graduation he returned to the family ranch. He became clerk of the local school board, and met a young teacher, Mary Margaret Whiteside, who became the love of his life and lifelong partner. They were married May 28, 1950, for nearly 62 wonderful years. Mr. and Mrs. Singleton raised six children: Douglas, Barbara, Jerry, Larry, Carla and David. Mr. Singletob worked hard to build a ranch and was dedicated to both his ranch and his family.
He started breeding Simmental Cattle in 1970.  He was never happier then when checking his alfalfa or wheat, as well as driving through his cattle. In later years he took up competitive target shooting.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Mr. Singleton was actively involved in all his children’s and grandchildren’s 4-H years and took a lot of pride in the accomplishments in 4-H.
Mr. Singleton is survived by his wife: Mary Margaret; his six children: Douglas and Judy Singleton, Barbara and Jerry Smalis, Jerry and Joni Singleton, Larry and Deb Singleton, Carla and Maury Murnion, and David and Denise Singleton; 11 grandchildren: Tom Singleton, Jenny and Turk Stovall, Desiree and Vaughn Hoffer, Jesse Smalis, Derick and Shaylee Singleton, T.J. and Awna Irish, Douglas and Tori Murnion, Troy, Marissa and Shauna Singleton; as well as three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Dee and Merle Singleton; and a baby sister.
Visitation will be Wednesday, April 25, 2012, from 1 to 6 p.m. with a prayer service starting at 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Thursday, April 26, 2012, at 2 p.m. in the First Baptist Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Holy Rosary Hospice, or the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Chery Elizabeth Schaffner Porten

Chery Elizabeth Schaffner Porten, 90, of Miles City died Thursday, April 19, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Extended Care Facility in Miles City.
Mrs. Porten was born on May 13, 1921, in Hebron, N.D., Mercer County to Elizabeth Wang Schaffner and F. Gordon Schaffner. She attended rural schools in Dunn County for eight years and graduated from Dodge High School in Dodge, N.D., in 1939 and Dickinson State College in North Dakota in 1944.
She taught in North Dakota, Washington and California.
She and Russ Porten were married on June 25, 1953, in Dickinson, N.D., and they moved to Miles City where they lived since.
Mrs. Porten was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Presbyterian Women in Miles City. She was active in the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, Republican Women and Chapter K P.E.O. She operated the Hammil Courts and she and her husband, Russ, established one of the first Kampgrounds of America (K.O.A.) campgrounds in Montana.
Mrs. Porten had many enjoyments, which included flowers, birds, light classical music, poetry, gardening and much more. She loved nature, writing, cooking, baking and entertaining friends. She enjoyed writing many articles for the Miles City Star and even published her own book called “Random Thoughts.” She was known for having lovely teas in her comfortable relaxing home setting.
Mrs. Porten also was fond of animals and their welfare was very important to her. 
Her survivors include a niece, Randi Gustafson, and her husband, Bruce; grandniece, Tara G. Peltier and family; grandnephew, Tom Gustafson, his wife, Holly, and their daughter; nephew, Barton Booth, his wife, Kim, and their children; nieces, Cathy Porten Matthirsen, Carol Porten Snow, Leah Grossmar and Beth Nicholls and their families; nephew, Joe Porten III; niece, Janet Porten Boughton and her husband, Keith; brothers-in-law, Joe Porten and Ron Porten and his wife, Linda; special friends, Laverne and Bill Stokes, Glinda Hunter, P.E.O. Sisters and treasured friends, Debbi Smith and Karen Stevenson.
Mrs. Porten was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Russ Porten in 1998; her sisters, Hope Schaffner Lund and Truth Schaffner Moger; and a nephew, Michael Moger.
Visitation will be Monday, April 23, 2012, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 24, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Miles City. Interment will be in the Kyseth Cemetery in Marshall, N.D. 
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Custer County Art and Heritage Center or P.E.O. Chapter K.

 

 

Marvin Hafla

Marvin Hafla, age 69, of Miles City passed away on Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at Holy Rosary Hospital in Miles City. He struggled most of his adult life with Type 1 Diabetes.
Marvin was born in Miles City, Montana on November 16, 1942, the son of Anton and Lydia (Erlenbusch) Hafla. Marvin attended grade school at the Hafla School and graduated from Garfield County High School in 1961.
On December 19, 1962 he married Laurie Gibson. To this marriage they had three children: Julie, Nick and Cindy. After high school he worked for Floyd Higgins Drilling, Don Levie Construction and lived and worked on the Barney Murnion Ranch. He also worked for Beacon Carter Service in Miles City while attending Miles Community College. He worked for the Milwaukee Railroad for 10 years and then worked for MDU as a Lineman for 23 years where he retired.
On November 5, 1999, he married Eleanor Plummer.         
Marvin loved the outdoors, especially camping, hunting and fishing with family and friends. He was also a very gifted builder, whether building houses, trailers, log splitters or even working on cars. He truly was a jack of all trades.
Marvin is survived by his wife Eleanor Hafla of Miles City, MT; two daughters: Julie (George “Butch”) Raymond of Miles City, MT; and Cindy (Kelly) Conley of Miles City, MT; a son Nick (Jaimie Foley) Hafla of Billings, MT; one step-daughter Sheila (Mike) Barthel of Havre, MT; a step-son Dwaine (Tammy) Plummer of Spokane, WA; brothers: Glenn Hafla of Miles City, MT; Dennis (Fritzie) Hafla of Miles City, MT; Gene (Nancy) Hafla of Glendive, MT; sisters: Shirley (Benny) Svenson of Glendive, MT; Cheryl Smutt and Sharon Hafla, both of Miles City, MT; uncles: Joe Hafla of Miles City and John Hafla of Billings, MT and two aunts: Agnes Cremer and Rose Schantz both of Miles City.
His grandchildren include: Beau, Chance, John, Mariah, Scarlett, William and Catherine Raymond and Kelcy Conley of Miles City and Shea and Reese Hafla of Billings. Jordon and Karra Plummer of Spokane, Jaleesa Barthel of Billings and Janelle and Janae Barthel of Havre. He also has two great grandchildren.
Marvin was preceded in death by his parents and numerous aunts and uncles.
Visitation will begin on Monday, April 23, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. A Vigil service will be held on Monday at 6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Rite of Committal will follow in the family lot of the Calvary Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or to the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Dorothy Irene Eaton

Dorothy Irene Eaton, 98, of Miles City died Monday, April 16, 2012, at the Friendship Villa Care Center in Miles City.
She was born in Miles City on April 5, 1914, the daughter of Hod and Laura Hill Crosby. She attended school at Trail Creek and Crow Agency.
Following her schooling, she married Lewis Todd on Oct. 26, 1930, in Hardin. To this union, three daughters were born. They ranched on the Mizpah Creek all of their lives. After Mr. Todd died from a heart attack, she moved to Miles City and later married Ron Eaton on March 6, 1976. After Mr. Eaton died on April, 4, 1998, Mrs. Eaton retired and remained in Miles City until the time of her death.
She enjoyed cooking and playing games. Mrs. Eaton loved being around people and enjoyed visiting anyone she met. She worked hard all her life on the ranch with her family. She also enjoyed preparing meals for her family, and making sure nobody went hungry.
Her survivors include her children: Vera (Allan) Schiller, Joyce (Lewis) Rooney and Janice (Ray) Miller, all of Miles City; nine grandchildren, Warren Schiller, Kay Lynn Michels, Wesley Schiller, Jim Rooney, Kelli Klein, Kathi Pfeifle, Debie Moore, Tod Miller and Tracy Klauka; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hod and Laura (Hill) Crosby; her husbands, Lewis Todd and Ron Eaton; a brother, Dick Crosby; two sisters,  Dixie Eaton and Betty Brock; and two granddaughters,  Dori Lu Rooney and Lori Lynn Miller.
Visitation will begin Friday, April 20, 2012 at 9 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Friday, April 20, 2012, at 2 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. 
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

David Jacobson

David Jacobson, 69, of Terry died Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at the Sidney Hospital in Sidney after a valiant fight with cancer.
Mr. Jacobson was born and grew up just outside Scobey. His father died when he was very young and life was difficult. He found comfort tagging along with his friend and cousin, Ella Mae.
Early in Mr. Jacobson’s life he worked for Morris Murphy and ran cows on Ruth Fisher’s place at Scobey.
He lived in Terry since the early 1980s, working for different ranches in southeastern Montana. Before his cancer treatments, he had worked for Frank Eaton and Sons as a mechanic. He was handy at fixing machinery and needed very few tools to work. Mr. Jacobson was an asset to their ranch shop.
He also loved working with horses. His most prized horse was a mare named Red Ruby.
His survivors include his children, Theresa, Todd, Ronald and Veronica; five grandsons; four granddaughters; one great-grandson; and three great-granddaughters.
Mr. Jacobson was preceded in death by his parents, Severin and Emma; sisters, E. Marie, Pearl and Opal; and brothers, Larry and Jake.
A prayer service will be Friday, April 20, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. in Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry. Graveside services will be Saturday, April 21, 2012, at 1 p.m. at the Scobey Cemetery in Scobey.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Rickey Dee "Rick" Mart

Rickey Dee “Rick” Mart, 57, of Jordan died Saturday, April 14, 2012, at his home in Jordan after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mr. Mart was born in Roundup on May 12, 1954, to Vernie “Bunny” and Thamar S. “Ike” Mart nine weeks premature, joining a sister, Donna. The family lived in Winnett and Lewistown before moving to Jordan when Mr. Mart was in the fifth grade. He attended Jordan Elementary School and graduated from Garfield County High School in 1972.
He helped build a feedlot in Scottsbluff, Neb., worked for Schennum Construction, Dayle Hains-Jordan Construction and attended Miles Community College in Miles City before coming back to Jordan to work for Garfield County Bank and Jordan Insurance Service on Dec. 1, 1975.
Mr. Mart spent the next 36 years providing customers with a level of service second to none. He has been a member of the board of directors of Garfield County Bancshares, serving as secretary since 1991.
He was co-founder of Hell Creek Recreation and was a member of the Hell Creek Cabin Association and the Fort Peck Cabin Association. He served on numerous boards in the insurance industry. Mr. Mart was very dedicated. He was dedicated to work, dedicated to service and dedicated to community.
Mr. Mart dedicated 35 years of service to Garfield County with the Garfield Ambulance Service, including 19 years as secretary/treasurer. He served nearly as many years with the Jordan Volunteer Fire Department and the Fireman’s Relief Association.  He served with Search and Rescue and was treasurer for the last 15 years. He was active in the Jaycees until they disbanded, served as a director of the Commercial Club for a number of years, was a member of Walleyes Unlimited, and a promoter of Garfield County business through the merchant’s “Association.” He was one of the founders of Town and Country Customer Appreciation Day.
Mr. Mart enjoyed spending time at the lake in the cabin he shared with friends, Robert and Sheila Johnson. He also enjoyed fishing, boating, snowmobiling, gardening and spending time with family and friends. Garfield County meant everything to Mr. Mart. In 2012, he received the distinguished service award for the betterment of Garfield County.
His survivors include his wife: Pohney Murnion-Mart of Jordan; five step-children: Nicole (John) Graham of Lusk, Wyo., Amber (Steve) Erlenbusch of Billings, Gerard (Elisa) Murnion of Laurel, Ryan Murnion (fiancée Randee Birkeland) of Jordan, and Richard (Angie) Murnion of Billings; 12 step-grandchildren:  Jake, Collette, Tristan, Julianne and Riley Graham, Kyle, Abby and Sophia Erlenbusch, Libby, Katie and Charlie Murnion, and Kage Murnion; a niece: Lynn (Ben) Rodriguez of Santa Cruz, Calif.; nephews:  Doug (Diane) Jenni of Reno, Nev., Craig (Mary) Jenni of Watsonville, Calif., and Roger (Cindy) Jenni of Las Vegas, Nev.; a brother-in-law: Olind (Liz) Jenni of Los Gatos, Calif.; aunt: Velma (Carl) Harbaugh of Jordan; and uncle: Pearl (Virginia) Mart of Meridian, Idaho. 
He was preceded in death by his parents: Ike and Bunny; and a sister: Donna.
Visitation will be Wednesday, April 18, 2012, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Jordan. Funeral services will be Thursday, April 19, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Garfield County High School Gymnasium in Jordan. Interment will follow in the Pioneer Cemetery in Jordan.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Garfield Ambulance Service, Search and Rescue or to a local charity.

 

 

Virginia "Ginny" Ruth Archdale

Virginia “Ginny” Ruth Archdale, 57, of Wibaux died Friday, April 13, 2012.
A devoted wife, sister and aunt, she was a bright light in the lives of many. She also was a woman of words. As a journalist, she respected brevity. If her essence was captured in two words, they would be “big hearted.”
Born in Dickinson, N.D., on Dec. 1, 1954, Ginny Getz and her family moved to Montana in 1956. Seven months after her youngest sister, Loretta, was born in 1958, their father, Lloyd, died of a sudden heart attack.
Growing up in a family of nine children, Mrs. Archdale learned a lot about sharing, caring and teamwork. In 1962, the family purchased a farm south of Whitehall, which became known simply as “the place.” Her mother, Ruth, taught her to respect the land, appreciate hard work and responsibility and to enjoy the sustaining power of laughter through good times and bad. 
Before the children could go swimming, they had to weed two rows of the garden. In the summer they fished for trout on the banks of Fish Creek and the Jefferson River. In the winter they skated on the frozen creek. 
Mrs. Archdale was 15 when her mother died. Her older brothers, Garry and Kevin, helped raise the younger ones on “the place.” Although Mrs. Archdale lost her parents when she was young, she inherited from her mother qualities that anyone who knew Mrs. Archdale would recognize: honesty, unconditional love, loyalty and pride. Her mother also gave Mrs. Archdale a deep faith in God, a faith that strengthened and comforted her during her illness.
Mrs. Archdale was a member of the St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, baptized at St. Mary’s in Marmarth, N.D, and confirmed at St. Theresa of Avila in Whitehall.
Mrs. Archdale’s “smarts” were evident at an early age. She wasn’t a first-grader for long before she was moved to second grade.  Her sister, Mary, gave her a life-long gift when she taught Mrs. Archdale to read as a small child. 
Reading began writing. From her work on the high school newspaper to a byline in the Virginia City, Montana, newspaper, Mrs. Archdale proved to be a capable, incisive writer. She graduated as salutatorian of the class of 1972 at Whitehall High School.
She received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Montana at Missoula in 1976. With that degree she went to work at the Bismarck, N.D., Bismarck Tribune and the Glendive Ranger-Review, where she was promoted from reporter to editor. A proponent of rural living, Mrs. Archdale shared those insights as a columnist for “Montana Magazine.” 
She once said of reporting, “I really liked being on the spot as news developed. It engaged my brain, and the reporter’s notebook allowed me to ask all the questions I wanted.” The Montana Press Association agreed and awarded her many honors.
The year 1979 was momentous for her. She met her future husband, Mike Archdale, and they began a 30-year adventure together. On Sept. 2, 1982, they were married at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Miles City by Rev. Chuck Mitchell, an Episcopalian minister. Rev. Schlosser, a Roman Catholic priest, blessed the ceremony, which reflected Mr. and Mrs. Archdale’s respect for each other’s perspective and philosophies. It also characterized their relationship in the years to come.
Mrs. Archdale shared with her husband trout fishing in western Montana while eating watermelon from a cold mountain stream. He shared with his wife a hot, dry afternoon at the Fourth of July rodeo in Terry. Mrs. Archdale introduced her husband to a new culinary sensation at his first lutefisk dinner in 1983. Mr. Archdale shared lamb, mushrooms and curry venison. Their marriage was seasoned with spirited discussions about politics and varying viewpoints based on a strong foundation of love.
In 1983, they moved to Wibaux, where Mr. Archdale went to work for the Wibaux public school system, and Mrs. Archdale began her job at the Ranger Review. In 1990, she became the town clerk for Wibaux. She was elated at the prospect of eight-hour workdays, unlike the 14-hour days she put in on the Review. But an “eight-hour day” was not in her vocabulary. 
Mrs. Archdale’s passion to make Wibaux and eastern Montana better places to live capitalized on her many talents for a host of projects. She wrote a historical pageant for Wibaux County during the state centennial in 1989 and helped create the town’s 2011 historical calendar. Even while suffering from the effects of her cancer treatment, she worked hard to complete the budget last summer.    
An avid birdwatcher, trout fisher and gardener, Mrs. Archdale’s hobbies reflected her love of nature and attachment to the earth. She was at peace when riding the lawnmower. In December 2011, after years of searching, she finally spotted a snowy owl west of Wibaux. 
The most precious things in her life were family and friends. All of her family were dear to her, but she shared a very special bond with her sister, Loretta, with whom she spent many holidays. She deeply appreciated the kindnesses people showed her during this past year. Muriel Sokoloski’s and Debie McBride’s efforts enabled Mrs. Archdale to visit her brothers and sisters in western Montana, and to walk and fish on “the place” to restore her soul in order to face the health challenges that lay ahead. 
Mrs. Archdale was the kind of aunt every child wants. Devoted, loving and very proud of all of her 21 nieces and nephews, she followed their lives and careers with great interest. During the summer of 2011 Mrs. Archdale was able to do a number of wishes on her bucket list, which included, trout fishing, the Getz family reunion, attending a Montana Griz football game and having her first taste of Griz Whiz.
She is survived by her husband, Mike; five brothers; three sisters; and their spouses and children. Her brothers are Kevin and Judy Getz of Butte, Garry and Jeanne Getz of Whitehall, Bob Getz of Big Timber, Eddie and Sandy Getz of Slinger, Wis., and Teddy Getz of Auburn, Wash.; sisters, Mary and Frank Johnston of Butte, Juanita and Brian Hockett of Havre and Loretta and Scott Andrews of Helena; a sister-in-law, Gloria Archdale of Miles City; a brother-in-law, Lionel (Sandy) Archdale of Redmond, Wash.; and numerous cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Ruth Getz; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jimmy and Hattie Archdale; and her sister-in-law, Pat Archdale.
A vigil service will be Monday, April 16, 2012, at 7 p.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Wibaux. Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, April 17, 2012, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Wibaux. Interment will be at 2:30 p.m. at the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City. A reception will follow at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials may be made to Gynecologic Cancer Foundation, 230 W. Monroe, Chicago, IL 60606 or to Wibaux County Nursing Home boiler fund and the Wibaux Endowment Fund.