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


Updated Jan. 30

 

 

LaVerne Spear
LaVerne Spear, 91, of Miles City died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
She was born in Helena on Dec. 15, 1920, the daughter of Walter Warren and Margaret McElhaney.
She married Alfred Beck on Oct. 27, 1941. This marriage was blessed with two daughters, Trudy and Julie. She later married Grant Spear and two step-daughters, Sally and Sue, joined the family. 
Mrs. Spear was part of an early-day pioneer family in the Helena Valley. The Pioneer Cabin in Last Chance Gulch was her grandparents’ home and still remains as a landmark in historic Helena. Mrs. Spear lost her mother at an early age and spent many years with her sisters in an orphanage. She began working at the young age of 12 as a housemaid in the home of Judge Stewart in Helena.
She was adventurous and some of her most memorable experiences included travel throughout Mexico, Ireland and Alaska. In her later years, she returned to her hometown of Helena where she coordinated the Mended Hearts program at St. Peter’s Hospital and renewed old friendships. In 2005, she moved to the Eagles Manor in Miles City where she met many dear friends. She most recently lived at the Extended Care Unit at Holy Rosary Healthcare and felt tremendously blessed to have such excellent care and good friendships.
Mrs. Spear had a love of learning her entire life. She attended Montana State College in Bozeman and worked as an accountant for Kaiser Permanente in Montana and Oakland, Calif.; finishing her work career in Seattle coordinating supplies for Alaska construction companies.  She was a handwriting analyst and a licensed Master Graphologist, which was a logical extension of her love for mystery stories.       
She was a wonderful cook and seamstress. Mrs. Spear spent 20 years as a 4-H leader teaching her daughters and others to appreciate life skills. Mrs. Spear made friends wherever she went and always took notice of the needs of others. She deeply loved her family and had a unique way of making each one of them feel special in her life. She had an exceptionally close bond with both of her daughters, Trudy and Julie, and she will be greatly missed in their daily lives. Her courage and determination were inspirations to all who knew her. Mrs. Spear was loved by many and was an incredibly classy lady.
Her survivors include her two daughters: Trudy (Harry) Angel of Seattle, Wash., and Julie (Butch) Krutzfeldt of Miles City; two step-daughters: Sally (Bill) Bauer of Leavenworth, Wash., and Sue (Gary) Marchioro of Salem, Ore.; a sister: Dorothy McEnaney of Boise, Idaho; grandchildren: Janette (Corey) Jones, Steve (Julie) Krutzfeldt, Jeanie (Andrew) Kalotay, Tyler (Pamela) Krutzfeldt, Carrie (Jon) David, Jeff (Sandra) Marchioro and Cindy Marchioro;  and 13 great-grandchildren.  
Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012, with the family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, at 1 p.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Timothy McKinley Justice

Timothy McKinley “Tim” Justice, 48, died unexpectedly on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, in the St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck. N.D., as a result of heart arrest and related complications.
He was born in Benton, Ark., on Aug. 15, 1963, to William F. Justice Sr. “Red” and Charlene N. Moore Justice.
Mr. Justice lived in the Billings area for most of his life and resided there at the time of his death. He spent part of his childhood and teenage years in the Miles City area where he graduated from Custer County District High School.
He had the opportunity to learn two very different trades in his lifetime. During his younger years, while living on the Scott Ranch, just outside of Miles City, he learned the trade of farming and ranching under the direction of his step-father, Kenny Jones.
After graduation from high school, he got his start in the carpentry trade by working with his father, Red Justice, and his brothers, who are all in the construction business.
Mr. Justice was the best at whatever he put his hand to. He loved people unconditionally, and was generous beyond measure. His final act of kindness was to give the gift of life through organ donation. He will be missed greatly by friends and family.
His survivors include his father, Red Justice of Billings and his step-mother, Josetta Justice, of Billings; his brothers, Bill Justice and Patrick Justice, both of Billings, David Justice of Bridgeport, Ala., Michael Justice of Decatur, Texas, and Eddie Jones of Dayton, Wyo.; his sisters, Charlene Justice DeWitt of Henryetta, Okla., Rachael Jones Ridenour of West Yellowstone and Dawn Justice of Billings; sisters-in-law, April Justice, Patricia Justice and Rose Whitesell; brothers-in-law, Allen Ridenour and Michael DeWitt; and many other family members and friends from all around the country.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlene Neoma Jones; and his step-father, Edgar Kenneth Jones.
Memorial services will be in Billings on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at 2 p.m. in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1000 Wicks Lane, Billings, MT 59105.

 

 

Alphonse "AP" Prevel

Alphonse “AP” Prevel, died at home on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, from a short battle with cancer.
Mr. Prevel was born in Paris, France, on May 16, 1933, to Clemons and Marguerite Prevel. His parents died during World War II and he went to the Basque country where he later served two years in the French Army.
In October 1956, he came to the United States with the help of a dear friend, Jean Galzagorry, which took him to Townsend to work for Frank and Rose Flynn who held a special place in his heart. He helped them on their ranch and herded sheep.
He later came to Miles City and began working at the Log Cabin Bar, which was the beginning of a long career in bartending.
On Dec. 18, 1965, he married Karen Lindow. They were married 25 years until her death in 1990. Together they had one daughter, Sherri.
In 1968 he went to work for the Eagles Club and for 44 years, became the friendly face behind the bar. Also in 1968 he went to work for Fort Keogh Experiment Station. He retired from Fort Keogh in 1993 and from the Eagles in December of 2011.
Mr. Prevel looked forward to his yearly elk hunting trips back to Townsend with his brother, Andre, and good friend, George.  He could start up a conversation with just about anyone and left a lasting impression, he loved people. He liked his morning walk to the post office, banks and chatting with everyone along the way.
He also treasured the time with his family, especially his grandsons.
His survivors include his daughter, Sherri (Rob) Schneidt, and two grandsons, Derek and Braden, whom he adored so much; his sisters-in-law, Helen Prevel of Townsend and Diane (Arlen) Matzen of Miles City; a nephew, Andre Jr. (Lana) Prevel  and  nieces, Johanna Matzen of Miles City, Jacqueline (Scott) Bodle, Jeanette Prevel and Monique (Denis) Smirnov, all of the Townsend area, and Genevieve (Steve Massey) Prevel of La Porte, Ind.; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
Mr. Prevel was preceded in death by his parents; two infant brothers and brothers Andre Sr. and Marcel; and his wife, Karen.
Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City with family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Holy Rosary Hospice, Wake Up and Lace Up or Sacred Heart Church.

 

 

John "Jack" Reynolds
GLENDIVE, MONTANA: John “Jack” Reynolds, age 82, died on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at the Glendive Medical Center in Glendive.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2012 from 9:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive with a Vigil Service at 7:00 P.M. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 10:00 A.M. in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Glendive with Father Joseph Ponessa officiating. Rite of Committal will be in the Dawson County Cemetery of Glendive. Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Jack was born on August 26, 1929 in Glendive the son of Frank Thomas and Ottilia “Tillie” (Klarmann) Reynolds. He received his early education in Glendive schools and graduated from Dawson County High School with the class of 1947. Jack attended Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska from 1950-1955 where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration.
Jack married Margaret Dufner on August 26, 1953 in Glendive. While living in Omaha, Jack and Marge had their first born child and upon Jack’s graduation from college they returned to Glendive where he was employed by the F.T. Reynolds Company. He worked for the F.T. Reynolds Company his entire career. He served as president for approximately ten years and at the time of his death was the Chief Executive Officer. Jack served on the Board of Directors of Associated Foods Stores, the primary supplier to the Reynolds stores, from 1988 to 1996.
He and Marge traveled on many fun and exciting trips, both in the United States and abroad. As an avid fisherman, he enjoyed many fishing trips with family and friends and enjoyed the distinction of having “outfished” all of his children. Jack loved to visit, whether about cuts of meat, the price of groceries, vehicles or politics. One often didn’t have to add any words, but only provide a listening ear and an occasional nod. He had a sense of humor, a belly laugh and a kind heart. Generosity was a character trait that ran deep. Above all, Jack loved his family and was very proud of his boys, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Robert in 1980 and one brother, Paul Reynolds.
Survivors include his wife Marge of Glendive; four sons, Thomas Reynolds and his wife Patty and William Reynolds and his wife Jacki all of Glendive, Randall Reynolds and his wife Lourdes of Miles City, Montana and John Reynolds and his wife Elena of Sidney, Montana; sisters, Rita McGovern and Marylin Hoffman both of Glendive; brothers, Richard Reynolds and his wife Rita of Glendive and Robert Reynolds and his wife Ann of Sacramento, California; grandchildren, Joshua Reynolds, Jessica Huber and her husband Travis, Jeffrey Reynolds and his wife Adrienne, Julie Peterson and her husband Marty, Robert Reynolds, Maria Reynolds, Antonia Reynolds, Nicholas Reynolds, Shayla Reynolds, Angela Reynolds and Elizabeth Reynolds; and great- grandchildren, Logan Peterson and Emersyn Huber and a host of extended family.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com.

 

 

Barbara M. Jessen Gibson

Barbara M. “Barb” Jessen Gibson, 82, died Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at Holy Rosary Extended Care, ending her battle with dementia and diabetes.
She was born on Dec. 7, 1929, in Minneapolis, Minn., to William H. and Margaret Purcell Jessen.  The family lived south of Miles City for a time before moving to Jordan where she was raised and received her education.
On May 10, 1947, she and Guy E. Gibson from Mosby were married. He was employed by the Department of Transportation from 1947 to 1981, transferring to Miles City where they raised their three children, Donald, Wanda and William “Bill.” Though employment outside the home was limited, she was fortunate to be able to stay home with her children and performed the ’50s/’60s version of day care by babysitting for friends, then ultimately her own grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Over the years the family enjoyed camping and fishing, Hell Creek has been a favorite place always. She also liked gardening, crocheting, raising chickens and ducks, and spending time with family whenever possible. However, she would forego all these activities for a Bingo game and if she didn’t win, was sure the game was rigged.
For the last two and a half years, her health required that she live at the Holy Rosary Extended Care Facility. She would always tell us she didn’t always like everyone that worked there, but she did love them. She had many, many friends among the staff.
Her survivors include her son: Donald Gibson of Miles City; her daughter: Wanda (Wayne) Holmlund of Miles City; two grandchildren: Kurt (Darcie) Holmlund and Angie (Kris) Lohrke. She is also survived by her six great-grandchildren:  Sydnee, Alyssa, Kole and Hannah Lohrke and Jaycee and Dylan Holmlund.
Mrs. Gibson was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son: Bill; and her brother: Charles. 
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, at 1:45 p.m. with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. 
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials may be made to Wanda Holmlund to be used to purchase something in memory of Mrs. Gibson for Holy Rosary Extended Care.

 

 

LeRoy Lindemann
LeRoy Lindemann, 65, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
LeRoy was born in Mott, N.D., on Aug. 15, 1946, the son of Adam and Rose Matz Lindemann. He was raised on the family farm south of Mott where he attended schools and graduated from Mott High School.
Shortly thereafter, he joined the Navy and was honorably discharged on Jan. 19, 1970. Following his discharge, he returned to Mott for a short time before moving to Hettinger, N.D., where he worked for Great Plains. That is where he met his wife, Nita Zimmerman and they were married on Feb. 6, 1971.  Mr. Lindemann spent the last six years working for B & C Oil in Miles City.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. Mr. Lindemann also enjoyed his time working at B & C Oil, delivering propane and visiting with the area farmers and ranchers. He really enjoyed building and woodworking projects. Recently he retired and was enjoying making his daily route visiting B & C, Conoco Quick Stop and Walmart. He really enjoyed having his grandchildren around and spending time with them.
His survivors include his wife: Nita Lindemann of Miles City; his children: Timothy (Jodi) Lindemann of Dickinson, N.D., Michele (Mark) Domagala of Baker, and Mitchel (special friend Karina Soucy) of Miles City; his grandchildren: Alicia (special friend Wade Sharp), Alexander, Matthew, Devin and Ashley; a brother, Richard (Linda) Lindemann; a sister, Sharon (Allan) Norby; sisters-in-law: Berneice (Keith) Scheibe, Carol (Virgil) Schlosser and Sharon (the late Roland) Zimmerman; and brothers-in-law: Lester (Laura) Zimmerman and Delvin (Joy) Zimmerman.
Mr. Lindemann was preceded in death by his parents: Adam and Rose; two brothers: Adam and Stephen; mother and father-in-law: Carl and Esther Zimmerman; brother-in-law: Roland Zimmerman; niece: Carolyn Klubben; and nephew: Adam Lindemann.
Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 23, 2012, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City with a Prayer Service at 6 p.m. Military graveside services will be Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Miles City with full military honors.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Benjamin Joseph Schulze
Benjamin Joseph Schulze was buried at Boyd Cemetery north of Newcastle, Wyo.
He died the morning of Sunday, Jan. 8, at approximately 7 a.m. Mr. Schulze suffered a coronary, and died shortly after at Weston County Health Services. He was a registered donor, and provided hope to countless others through his generosity.
He was born to Carl and Esther Dohrman Schulze on May 11, 1940, in
Newcastle. He became a big brother on Aug. 6, 1945, with the birth of his sister, Donna Mae.
Mr. Schulze attended both primary and high schools in Newcastle, graduating valedictorian of his class in 1958.
He studied at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyo., and then returned to Newcastle to work, and in 1962 married Clara Gilkison. In December of 1963 the couple had their first child, daughter Laurel. In 1966, their first son Benjamin Joseph was born, but died in infancy.
Mr. Schulze returned to his education and studied computer programming and drafting/engineering at Parks College in Denver, Colo., in 1967-1968. He then worked at various oilfield jobs in Wyoming and Montana, and was a pumper in Biddle during the Bell Creek oil boom, during which time the couple’s second son Timothy John was born back in Newcastle in 1969.
In 1972 Mr. Schulze was badly injured in an oilfield treater fire in the Hilite Field south of Gillette, Wyo. He spent two months in Casper recovering from his injuries.
Following his recovery he began developing a new career as a draftsman, working for Plains Engineering in Newcastle and Gillette. Eventually, Mr. Schulze partnered with Darrel Schlup and purchased Plains Engineering in Newcastle, renaming their company High Plains of Wyoming.
In 1993 Mr. Schulze met Sharon Unrue at the Old Mill Inn. They were married in 2002, and his family grew with the inclusion of her children Jason, Kristel, Keith and Trina. Mr. Schulze retired in 2005, and he began to devote much of his time to automotive restoration, purchasing an automotive shop on West Main in Newcastle and filling it with his beloved Mopars.
He remained healthy and active through his years of retirement, traveling with wife Sharon to visit their children around the country, and to celebrate holidays and spend time with his sister Donna and her husband Ron Bunnell.
His survivors include his wife, Sharon; daughter, Laurel Schulze (James) Burke; son, Tim Schulze; brother, Everett Schulze; sister, Donna (Ron) Bunnell; grandchildren, Shawn, Ryan, and Dane Burke; step-grandchildren, Reuben and Kaia Harral and Caira and Maddyson Harral; and nephews, Joe and Dale Bunnell.
He was preceded in death by his infant son, Benjamin; and parents, Carl and Esther.
A memorial fund has been established for his grandchildren, and donations may be made to First State Bank of Newcastle (Ben Schulze Grandchildren’s College Fund).

 

 

Charlotte Jeanne Clay Allen

Charlotte Jeanne Clay Allen, 82, of Broadus, died Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, at the Pioneer Manor in Gillette, Wyo., with her family by her side.
Mrs. Allen was born Aug. 12, 1929, in Broadus, the daughter of Arthur and Jeannette Larsen Clay. She grew up and attended grade school at several different places in Montana along with five brothers and four sisters, before she returned to Broadus where she graduated from Powder River High School.
She remained in Broadus and shortly after she graduated, she married Howard Allen on Aug. 12, 1947. After they were married they moved to the ranch south of Biddle near Bowers Creek, where they ranched together and raised their family. To this union they raised three children, Clifford, Dennis and Christa.
Mrs. Allen enjoyed keeping active in the 4-H leadership and encouraged children to participate in 4-H. She was active in many clubs including the Biddle Home Demo Club, a 4-H leader, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary member, Stitch and Chatter Quilt Club and bowling league. Mrs. Allen truly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
Her survivors include her sons, Cliff and Dennis Allen; one daughter, Christa Culp; three brothers, Alvin, James and John Clay; and one sister, Audrey Marquardt.
Her survivors also include 10 grandchildren: Chantel (Rick) Russell, Sean (Brenda) Allen, Christy (Lorin) Sturtz, Heather Allen, Art Allen, Jeff (Amy) Holkan, Amanda Holkan, Dustin (Melissa) Holkan, Mechelle (Jimmie) Weston, Mike (Nicole) Allen, Jayson (Monica) Rowan and Jeremy Rowan; 22 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Allen; parents, Arthur and Jeannette Clay; two brothers, Nells and Roger; and three sisters, Bonna, Juanita and Claris.
Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at 1 p.m. at the Faith Bible Church in Broadus. Burial will follow in the Valley View Cemetery in Broadus.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Ervin Sukut
Ervin Sukut, 85, of Bozeman, formerly of Circle, died Sunday, Jan. 18, 2012, in Bozeman.
The son of John and Elizabeth Eslinger Sukut, he was born in Watkins. Mr. Sukut attended Gackle Elementary School and Brockway High School up until serving for the Army during World War II as a TEC-4 Sergeant. During his service, Mr. Sukut was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Victory Medal and the Medal of Occupation for his participation in the invasion and occupation of mainland Japan.
Shortly following his discharge at the end of the war, he returned to the family homestead forming a ranch/farming partnership with his twin brother, Harold.
After working several years on the ranch, he met Agnes Kasten. They were married on Oct. 15, 1953, and traveled the West Coast on their honeymoon. Mr. and Mrs. Sukut retired from farming and ranching in 1974, moving into a home they built in Circle.
Mr. Sukut was a tremendous sports enthusiast, supporting all local teams and in particular the Green Bay Packers. Another of his hobby pursuits and passions was rebuilding and refurbishing his Studebaker Lark.
He loved teasing and playing with his grandchildren and spending time with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all.
In 1990, Mr. and Mrs. Sukut moved to Bozeman, enjoying the Gallatin Valley and their new surroundings. They raised five children and celebrated 58 years of marriage this last October.
His survivors include his loving wife, Agnes of Bozeman; his brother, Harold (Esther) of Great Falls; three sons, one daughter, and one daughter-in-law and their families, Mike (Lessa) of Billings, Joe (Sheri) of Billings, Jeff (Kim) of Greybull, Wyo., Julie (Gene) of Bozeman, and Diane of Circle; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Wade Sukut; his great-granddaughter, Anna; twin great-grandsons; his brothers, Albert, John, Monte, Bill and Herb; and his sisters, Anna, Clara, Amelia and Mary.
Viewing will be at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Circle on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at 11 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Circle. Burial, with complete military honors, will follow the service at the Circle Cemetery. A reception following the burial will be at Schmidt’s in Circle.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 


Leona Hagman Davis
Leonamae Means Hagman Davis, age 78, of Arcadia, Utah, passed away January 16, 2012, at her home.
She was born April 6, 1933, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, to Charles LeRoy and Avis Marie Johnson Means. She graduated with honors from high school at age 17. She married John L. Hagman, Jr., on June 12, 1950, in Hot Springs, South Dakota. He died December 5, 1966. She married Charles Wendell Davis on July 25, 1980, in Arcadia, Utah. He died January 18, 2001.
Leona was an incredible woman who lived a full life. She farmed and ranched next to her husbands and children in Alzada, Montana on a 14 section ranch and in Argyle Canyon, Duchesne County, Utah, later in life.
After her first husband died, she raised the kids and cared for the ranches without any help from anyone. Because she often had to provide for her family with very little means, she became an excellent marksman and was able to shoot the heads off of wild turkeys and sage hens, thus preserving the precious meat. She moved to the Uintah Basin in Utah in 1970, settling in the Arcadia area.
Some of her many other endeavors included: getting a solo pilot’s license, becoming an EMT, working for the Forrest Service and as a legal secretary for many of the local judges. She also was a long-haul truck driver, realtor, and assistant Veterinarian.
She was an accomplished horse-woman, training for and riding in many Western Reigning Championships. At one point the group she rode with was rated top in the nation. She was very community minded, serving on the School Board in various areas, and was a member of the Lion’s Club. She was very instrumental in starting Mosquito Abatement in Duchesne County, Utah.
Leona’s hobbies were many. She was well read and had a knack for music, being able to play the piano by ear and learning to play the Hawaiian steel guitar. She enjoyed and was very talented in cabinetry and woodcarving, creating beautiful stocks for many guns, and using those skills to remodel her home many times over. She also knitted and gardened.
She will be remembered most for her great love of people. She had a grand sense of humor and liked to visit with everyone. She had “no back up” meaning when she took a stand, she held it. She will be deeply missed.
Leona is survived by her children, Melanie Ann (Carl) Samuelson, Volborg, MT; John Charles (Lynda) Hagman; Scott (Vickie Mae) Hagman, both of Arcadia, Utah; Lisa Ruth (Howard) Betts, Myton, Utah; Calla Jo (Larry) Freston, Roosevelt, Utah; 24 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren with three on the way, 1 great-great-grandchild; a sister, Barbara (Gene) Gailes, Gillette, WY; two brothers, Edward (Ursulla) Means, Levittown, PA; Douglas (Candace) Means, Gillette, WY; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husbands; parents; a daughter, Jacqueline Lee Hagman; sisters, Lois Irene Cuddie, Pauline Belle Crawford, Shirley Marie Long; and a brother, John Charles Means.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 21, 2012, at the Myton LDS Chapel. There will be a viewing from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Hullinger Mortuary, 457 East 300 North, Roosevelt and from 10-10:45 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Burial will be in the Oelrichs Hillside Cemetery in South Dakota on Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. Condolences may be shared at www.hullingermortuary.com http://www.hullingermortuary.com

 

 

Mildred A. Misic

Mildred A. Misic died Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in Seattle, Wash.
She was born on Nov. 4, 1916, in Dubuque, Iowa, to M.E. “Buddy” and Alice Anderson. She grew up on the ranch they homesteaded near Knowlton, which is still owned and operated by the Anderson family.
She enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps in 1944 where she served her county as a clerk-typist until being honorably discharged after World War II ended. She traveled the world, working and living in Germany for a time before settling in California and enrolling in college.
On June 1, 1959, she and Mirko D. Misic were married in Miles City. They moved to Seattle in 1962 where she worked as a lab technician for Children’s Orthopedic Hospital. She later opened and ran Old World Imports Shop in Lake Forest Park.
Mrs. Misic was known for her quick wit, her love of classical music and her deep faith. 
Although she spent most of her life living away from Montana, Montana remained in her heart. Over the years the couple brought four of Mr. Misic’s nieces and nephews to this country from the Bosnia area as teenagers. They provided them with a home and family and put them through school. These special family members are Branka, Zel, Maya and Marijana.
Mrs. Misic made frequent trips back to Miles City to visit her family, most of whom still live in the area.
Her survivors include her husband of 52 years, Mirko. D. Misic; and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Buddy and Alice Anderson; and her brothers, Harry, Robert, James and Kenneth.
A prayer service will be Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Rite of Committal will follow in the Knowlton Cemetery.
Should friends desire, memorials may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of the donor’s choice in lieu of flowers.


 

 

Emily J. (Phillips) Ridgeway

Emily J. “Em” (Phillips) Ridgeway, 80, died of respiratory arrest on Saturday, Jan. 14, at Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
At her request, no services will be held. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. 
Mrs. Ridgeway was born July 3, 1931, in Havre to Curt and Mary Murphy Phillips. She attended Northern and Eastern Montana colleges and worked at Buttreys in Havre and Powers and Von Ragsdale in Lewistown.
On March 31, 1951, she married John Ridgeway in her hometown of Rudyard. Mrs. Ridgeway enjoyed family gatherings, grandchildren, school and sporting events, reading and card playing. She was a long-time member of the Republican Party.
She and her husband farmed and ranched outside of Windham for many years.
When her husband’s health failed, she moved to Miles City to live with her daughter. At the time of her death, she was living at TLC, an assisted living center in Miles City.
Her survivors include her daughter, Mary Jo Ridgeway (Gary Day) of Miles City; her two sons, Randal Ridgeway (Dawn) and Michael Ridgeway, both of Stanford; seven grandchildren, Robert Ridgeway of Austin, Texas, Blake Ridgeway of Chicago, Ashley Ernst Maart (Joel) of Duluth, Minn., Brandon Ernst, Cole Mickelson and Lucas Ridgeway, all of Missoula and Lander Ridgeway of Stanford; two great-grandchildren, Titus and Nicholas Maart of Duluth, Minn.; her sister, Irene Potter of Carmichael, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding Mrs. Ridgeway in death were her husband, John, and her daughter, Susan.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Judith Basin County Library, 93 3rd Street North, Stanford, MT 59479.

 

 

Joseph Patrick Kiel III

Joseph Patrick Kiel III, infant son of Joseph and Kayla Hoover Kiel of Ismay, died Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, at the Holy Rosary Health Center in Miles City.
Joseph is survived by his parents: Joseph and Kayla Hoover Kiel of Ismay; his grandparents: Joe and Ginger Kiel of Miles City and Keith and Barb Hoover of Miles City; his aunts and uncles: Jeremy and Brittany Hoover of Sheridan, Wyo., and Justin and TJ Kiel of Miles City; his great-grandparents: Pat and Jean Phalen of Ismay, Floyd and Bonnie Hoover of Miles City and Pearl Kiel of Miles City; and numerous family members and special friends.
Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 16, 2012, with the family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Burial 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 Joe and Kayla Kiel to help with expenses.

 

 

Julia "Julie" Ann Meckle Coder

Julia Ann Meckle Coder, 60, died on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, surrounded by her family after battling a courageous fight against liver and kidney disease.
Julie, as people knew her, was born on June 5, 1951, in Havre. She lived in Malta before moving to Minot, N.D. She graduated from Minot High School in 1969 at Minot.
She met her true love and high school sweetheart, Larry Coder, while going to school in Minot. They married on March 15, 1969, in Minot.
After graduation, Mrs. Coder stayed with her parents while Mr. Coder was out to sea with the United States Navy. The Navy took them to San Diego, Calif., Washington, D.C., and Chicago, Ill. They lived in Minot after he was discharged from the Navy and came to Miles City in 1978.
On Sept. 7, 1981, a daughter Nicole Ann Coder was born. When Nicole was in grade school, Mrs. Coder was actively involved with the Girl Scouts as a leader from Brownies to Cadettes.
Mrs. Coder worked for a daycare, First Bank and First Interstate Bank in the 1980s and served a term as the Clerk and Recorder of Custer County. In 1994, she started a new adventure and opened a novelty, gift and party store, Nicole’s. In 1996 the store expanded and moved to include t-shirts, weddings and a new name, Nicole’s & Tea’s Tee’s. Mrs. Coder worked for Eastern Montana Title Company for 15 years until July 2011 when she became sick.
In December 1995, her niece Teauna came to live with her and Mr. Coder after Teauna’s mother, Mrs. Coder’s sister, Bonita Kinzer, died from cancer.
Mr. and Mrs. Coder traveled to Mexico several times. She loved to work in her garden, watch birds, spend time with her family, read mystery and suspense novels, travel, go to concerts especially those given by John Jackson. She loved to watch SciFi movies and have get-togethers with her family and friends in her backyard.
She had a huge love of frogs which resulted in a large collection over the years from family and friends which include drawings by grandchildren (one resulted in a tattoo she had done), pictures, statues, stuffed animals, flower pots, outdoor decorations and even a spare tire cover for their RV that states “Coder’s Pad” and has two frogs sitting on a lily pad.
She was blessed with three grandsons, R.J., Damian and Gavin, and one granddaughter, Georgia. Her life motto was Live, Laugh and Love.
Her survivors include her husband of 42 years, Larry; her daughters, Nicole (Josh) Seekins, and Teauna (Joe) Swanson of Miles City; her brother, Russ (Tami) Meckle of Tioga, N.D.; a nephew, Russell (Cody) Kinzer of Broadus; a niece, Michelle Meckle of Helena; her grandsons, R.J. Kinzer, Damian Cash and Gavin Seekins, and her granddaughter, Georgia Swanson, all of Miles City; grandnephews, Tristan and Reuban Kinzer and Aden and Blake Williamson; and grandnieces, Bonita Jean Kinzer, Carlee Williamson, Rosalee Kinzer and Melissa Clark.
Survivors also include a very special “family” member, Betty Phelps; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Reuben “Slim” Meckle and Loretta Stein Meckle; and sister, Bonita Kinzer.
Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City with family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 13, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Miles City.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Cy Bidwell

Cy Bidwell, 69, of Belle Fourche. N.D., died at his home on Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, with his family at his side.
Frank Cyrus Bidwell was born Aug. 4, 1942, in Broadus to Frank and Nanie Cain Bidwell. He graduated from Powder River County High School in Broadus in 1960 and attended Miles Community College in Miles City. While growing up he worked with his father at the sawmill near Ashland.
Mr. Bidwell was owner/operator of many businesses in Broadus: the Cashway grocery store, Park Mobil gas station, Powder River Lanes, The Golden Mug, and Pastime Theatre. He also was instrumental in getting the Broadus Golf Course started and ran the Pro Shop at the Country Club.
For the past 25 years he has been President of Tru Catch Traps in Belle Fourche.
Mr. Bidwell had been married to his loving wife, Dolly, for 50 years and had been a devoted husband and father. He played softball on the Broadus Sponsors Team and many rounds of golf with his friends. He coached a lot of Little League Baseball and football and enjoyed watching his children in their sporting events.
He held the position of president of the Broadus Jaycees as well as serving at the state level for the Montana Jaycees. He was a member of the Belle Fourche Shriners, Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Board and served as president at the Belle Fourche Country Club.
Mr. Bidwell enjoyed bowling, golf and pool and always was there to have fun and make sure that everyone else did too. He never met a stranger he didn’t like. His lucky day was the day he made a Hole in One at the golf course and had 11 straight strikes at the bowling alley on the same day.
He will be remembered for his enthusiasm and sincerity in everything he did in life whether it was work or play. He will be greatly missed by all his friends and family.
Grateful for sharing in his life are his wife, Dolly (Schneidt) Bidwell of Belle Fourche; children, Vicky and (David) Black of Keller, Texas, Karen and (David) Dinkel of Powers Lake, N.D., Todd Bidwell and (Anna) of Belle Fourche, Barry and (Erica) Bidwell of Forsyth and Doug Bidwell of Belle Fourche; eight grandchildren; his brother, Ronald Bidwell of Laurel; and his sisters, Mamie Denson of Douglas, Wyo., and Myrtle Ridenour of Billings.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Nanie Bidwell.
There will be no visitation as his body was cremated. A Ceremonial Tribute will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012, at Kline Funeral Chapel in Belle Fourche with Pastor Andy Anderson officiating. A Service of Remembrance will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the Stevenson and Son Funeral Home in Broadus with Pastor Don Bidwell officiating.
The family suggests memorials to the charity of the donor’s choice.
An online guest book is available at www.klinefuneralchapel.com and at www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

 

Marjorie M. Hawkins
Graveside services for Marjorie M. Hawkins, 94, of Enumclaw, Wash., were at Washington Memorial Park Cemetery on Friday afternoon, Nov. 25, 2011.
Mrs. Hawkins died peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2011, in her home in Enumclaw.
She was born in Crow Rock on Oct. 8, 1917, to Herman and June Barthel. She attended the Crow Rock School.
She and Neil E. Hawkins were married in Forsyth on July 25, 1936.
She was blessed to have accomplished her two life goals of driving big rig trucks with her husband, as well as breeding and racing thoroughbred horses. An exceptionally kind, hardworking, tough Montana ranch hand, she took great pleasure in gardening, cooking, her children and grandchildren.
Her survivors include her son, Leonard L. Hawkins; daughter, Ruby R. Tiller; granddaughters, Stacy, Lori, Cari, Jackie, Vicki and Charity; grandsons, Mike and Mark; 14 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Irene Briglio; her niece, Barbara Long and husband, Don, and their two children, Michele and Jerome.

 

 

Anita Joyce Cullen
A Rosary/Vigil service for Anita Joyce Cullen, the second child of John and Sara Cullen, was held at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Kit Carson, Colo., on Thursday evening, Dec. 29, 2011. A Funeral Mass of Resurrection was celebrated Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, with Fr. Kirk Slattery as Celebrant. Committal services were in the Kit Carson Cemetery.
Born in Burlington, Colo., on Nov. 13, 1932, she died on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011.
She attended elementary and high school in Kit Carson, Colo. She continued her education by attending Loretto Heights College in Denver, Colo., and received her music degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder, Colo.
She taught music at schools in Washington and Colorado, concluding her teaching career in Miles City. This position included teaching music at Garfield, Highland Park, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt elementary schools and Washington Middle School in the Miles City School District on a rotating basis. Upon her retirement in 1987, she returned to Kit Carson, continuing to give private vocal and piano lessons, as she had done in her previous locations.
As her health deteriorated and she could no longer remain at home, she moved into the Cheyenne Manor in Cheyenne Wells, Colo. In May 2011, she moved to the Manor of the Plains in Dodge City, Kan., where she remained until her death.
One of her highlights was her month-long European trip with a good friend, Helen Speelmon. Her most memorable events included going to Our Lady of Lourdes, and taking a train, by herself, to Rome to see the Vatican.
Her survivors include her two sisters, Norma Jean Polley and Alice (Verlan) Hines; four nephews, Michael (Sandy) Polley, Steven Polley, Alison Hines and Larry Hines; two nieces, Lisa (Mike) Fox and Lori (Frank) Border.
She also is survived by 11 great-nephews and great-nieces; 10 great-great-nephews and great-great-nieces; and many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one infant niece, Mary; and one infant great-nephew, Cory.
Funeral services were entrusted to the care of the Brown Funeral Home in Kit Carson, Colo.

 

 

 

 


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