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 June 30

Pamela Jill "Pam" Jacobsen

 Pamela Jill “Pam” Jacobsen, 61, of Miles City died peacefully at her home with her daughter at her side on Sunday, June 28, 2009, after battling colon cancer.
She was born Oct. 17, 1947, in Miles City, to Paul and Louise Kortum Tucker. She attended school in Miles City and graduated from Custer County District High School in 1965.
After graduating from high school she married Richard Jacobsen on Aug. 13, 1966. They were married 36 years, until his death in 2003.
Mrs. Jacobsen started her career at the Miles City Veterans Affairs Medical Clinic working in medical administration. After her daughter, Stefanie, was born in 1971, she left her career to become a full-time mother and wife. Later she worked for Stallard & Associates and the Custer County Attorney’s Office. She returned to work at the V.A. again for several years before retiring in 2000.
Following retirement she embarked on her new career — full-time grandmother.   “Grammy” was enthusiastic about her new job and became thoroughly dedicated to spoiling her grandchildren, much to their pleasure. When she looked at her grandchildren, her eyes would sparkle with pride. Even during her last days her spirit would shine when she would see them.
Her husband, Rich, was a talented musician, and played at many venues in Miles City from the early 1960s until the time of his death. She learned to play the bass guitar and in the early to mid-1970s she joined her husband in the band. She claimed she couldn’t sing but had a soft, pretty voice.
She came to know the Lord several years before she died, and enjoyed attending Grace Bible Church and Bible studies as her health would allow.
She enjoyed collecting music boxes, Precious Moments, Josef figurines and Miles City memorabilia. She liked to shop on eBay and find the “good deals.” She also enjoyed reading.
Her survivors include her daughter, Stefanie (Dean) Pickering of Miles City; two grandchildren, Nathan and Katie Pickering of Miles City; and her very special dog, Susie.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Rich; her mother; and her father.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 2, 2009, at 10 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City.  Interment will be in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be served at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Grace Bible Church Building Fund. 

Milard "Walt" Walterson

Millard “Walt” Walterson, 75, of Miles City died Thursday, June 25, 2009, at the Holy Rosary Extended Care Facility in Miles City, after a long courageous battle with cancer.
Mr. Walterson was born in Verona, N.D., on Feb. 28, 1934, to Edwin and Tillie Mennis Walterson. He grew up and attended grade school at Black Loam Township near Verona. He graduated from LaMoure High School in LaMoure, N.D. He lived with his sister, Thelma Anderson and family, while attending high school.
Following graduation, he entered the United States Army where he proudly served for four years. He completed his basic training at Fort Riley, Kan., and was stationed in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to North Dakota and worked for Westgate Swimming Pool and the North Dakota Water Commission.
On Nov. 15, 1958, he married Lavonne Rufsvold at Fort Ransom, N.D. In 1960 they moved to Miles City where he worked as a printer-pressman for the Miles City Star for more than 39 years.
“Poopsy” and his family enjoyed many years of camping and family vacations including, multiple trips to the Black Hills of South Dakota and California. He was a very skilled carpenter/handyman and remodeled the family home on Knight Street. He wa∫s always there for his children, whether it be hauling band equipment, hauling furniture, or fixing cars. In later years he enjoyed following the grandchildren’s school and sports activities. His family was his pride and joy and he loved them all dearly.
In November 2008 Mr. and Mrs. Walterson celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. It was a wonderful weekend that brought together all of their children and their families including all of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mr. Walterson was a proud member of the Eagles and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He enjoyed getting together with friends to share an occasional Budweiser or two, sharing his humorous outlook on life with often repeated phrases that brought much laughter. His friends and family gifted him with many additions to his growing collection of caps and steins. Crossword puzzles were another of his favorite pastimes.
His survivors include his wife, Lavonne “Lolly” Walterson of Miles City; a son, Colin (Nancy) Walterson of Bellingham, Wash.;  daughters:  Tammy (Michael) Brenner of Reno, Nev.,  Joni (Bob) Magnuson of Miles City and Melani (Bruce) Randall of Eagan, Minn.; a daughter-in-law, Ginny (Monte) Bachmann of Horace, N.D.; a brother, Howard Walterson of Snohomish, Wash.; a sister, Doris (Leonard) Lere of Minneapolis, Minn.; 10 grandchildren:  Travis, Mandy, Brandy, Erich, Kayla, Marni, Anna, Brandon, Connor, and Gage; four great-grandchildren:  LeAnna, Mikhael, Elijah and Gavin; and numerous nieces and nephews. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, James Walterson; and two sisters, Thelma Anderson and Myrna Kratz.
The family will receive friend Sunday, June 28, 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Funeral services will be Monday, June 29, 2009, at 11 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City. Interment will be at the Eastern Montana State Veteran Cemetery in Miles City with full military honors provided by VFW Post 1579. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be served at the VFW.  Everyone is invited. 
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to hospice.

Dean Douglas Hart
 Dean Douglas Hart, alias “Deano,” “Doug,” “the silver-haired fox,” died Monday, June 22, 2009, in an automobile accident. 
Mr. Hart was born Jan. 26, 1951, in Circle, the ninth of 13 children born to Vernon E. “Bud” and Doris Lauer Hart. He attended schools in Circle through his high school years. He worked in Miles City at Gierke Distributing and an auto parts store.
On Aug. 21, 1976, he married a Circle girl, Ellen Kuckler. They made their home in Miles City where Mr. Hart worked at L.P. Anderson Supply Co. He then began a 25-year career with the Montana Department of Transportation, retiring in 2007. Most recently he very much enjoyed his part-time driving position with Coach America Express Shuttle.
He and his wife enjoyed presenting Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekends spanning over a 13-year period. He was active in his church as usher, Eucharistic minister and helped with Search weekends for high school teens. He enjoyed fellowship and work projects as a member of the Knights of Columbus. Over the past year his Alcoholics Anonymous support group was central to his life.
He was rarely seen without a cup of coffee in his hand, and truly loved to play solitaire with his many decks of cards. He and his wife enjoyed dancing, and waltzes were a favorite for him. He cherished all time spent with his family and friends, especially his three children, Stephanie, Jeremy and Cindy. He was looking forward to the 10th Hart Family Reunion this July.
Mr. Hart was quite the storyteller, and one could never be certain if a bit of exaggeration might be part of the story. The twinkle in his eyes above his ear-to-ear smile brought life to many stories and encounters. He is well remembered for his patience, gentleness and willingness to help others. He was known for many years throughout the neighborhood as “Mr. Fix It.” This included vehicle repairs, plowing snow with the 4 Wheeler, and patching innumerable bicycle tires. Whether working on projects in the house or garage, his meticulous attention to detail demonstrated his respect for hard work and his care for his loved ones.
His survivors include his wife of 32 years, Ellen, of Miles City; his children, Stephanie Hart of St. Cloud, Minn., Jeremy Hart (and friend Becky Bedosky) and Cindy Hart (and friend Dan Anderson) of Miles City; his brothers and sisters, Patrick (Donna), Gordon (Shari), Mary Alice (Bob Hinnaland), Leo (Linda), Dick, Mike (Patty), Paul (Iris), James, Cathy (Billy Hale), Jeannie and Larry.
He is also survived by sister-in-law, Jeannie; many special nieces and nephews; and a multitude of extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a very special brother, Chuck.
Vigil Services will be Friday, June 26, 2009, at 7 p.m. in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, June 27, 2009, at 11 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Rob Oswald officiating. Burial will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to Knights of Columbus or Sacred Heart School.

Katherine Ann "Kat" Beehler-Goodson

Wednesday Katherine Ann “Kat” Beehler-Goodson, 38, of Miles City died Saturday, June 20, 2009, at the Saint Vincent Hospital in Billings.
She was born in Miles City on Aug. 22, 1970, the daughter of Richard Leo and Judith E. James Beehler. She attended grade schools in Miles City and graduated in 1989 from Custer County District High School. She then went to work for Big Al’s.
On Aug. 7, 1993, she and Robert Goodson were married in Miles City. She went to work for First Interstate Bank where she worked for nine years. She then went to work for Stockman Bank and had worked there for the past four years.
She loved to go camping, especially at Ft. Peck.  She loved hunting, boating, 4-wheeling and most anything outdoors. She enjoyed programming computers, cooking and was a true lover of her animals and exotic birds. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family.
Her survivors include her parents, Richard and Judith Beehler of Miles City; her grandmother, Leona Madler of Billings; her husband, Robert Goodson of Miles City; a son, Robby Goodson and daughter, Erin Goodson of Miles City; two brothers: Joe (Michelle) Fredrickson of Miles City and Tony (Bobbie) Beehler of Hardin;  a sister, Kate Kronen of Missoula; her godparents, Lynn Harbaugh of Miles City and Sandy Rabe of Miles City; and numerous nieces and nephews and friends who were like family. 
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Elmo F. James and Estelle (Dobson) James; her grandfather, Anton J. Beehler; her uncle, Tim James; her nephew, Tim-Tim James; her aunt, Delores Claver; and her cousin, Robert Rodell.
The family will receive friends Thursday, June 25, 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Friday, June 26, 2009, at 2 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to her family.

Henry "Hank" Watts

 Henry “Hank” Watts, 97, of Miles City died Monday, June 22, 2009, at the Holy Rosary Extended Care Facility in Miles City.
Mr. Watts was born in Conde, S.D., on Jan. 26, 1912, the son of Henry Jason and Isabelle Meyer Watts. He attended grade schools in South Dakota until the family moved to Hysham in 1924. He finished his schooling there and returned to the family farm.
He joined the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCCs) to help support his family and served out his term in Montana. After the CCCs, he worked for area farmers in Hysham, Sanders and Forsyth.
Mr. Watts and Lydia Reichert were married on Dec. 9, 1936, at Forsyth. In 1942, they purchased a irrigation farm at Kinsey. They grew sugar beets, raised sheep and cattle, and milked cows most of their years there.
In 1991, they sold the farm and retired to Miles City where they lived out their years.
While on the farm Mr. Watts was known for his ability to revise machinery and design them to meet the demands of soil textures in the area. He knew how to improve the soils to produce high yield crops, of which he won numerous awards.
During his early years on the farm, he and some of his brothers formed the “Watts Orchestra” and played for local dances and get-togethers. He played the violin, mandolin, and spoons.
Another hobby he enjoyed during later years was collecting antique barbed wire. He was a member of a collector’s corporation for 37 years and won many top awards. He became a founding member of the Fence Riders Wire Collectors Incorporated. His collection included close to 300 different wire samples. It has been left to the Range Riders Museum in Miles City where he had enjoyed membership for years.
Mr. Watts also belonged to the Montana Stockgrowers and was a past member of the Kinsey School Board. He was instrumental in the building of Faith Lutheran Church at Kinsey, serving as treasure from its inception until its closure when it merged with First Lutheran Church in Miles City. He and his wife formed a non-denominational community bible study in Kinsey and enjoyed the fellowship and sharing of the Word. When unable to attended worship services at First Lutheran, he enjoyed worshiping through the radio broadcast even in his last months.
His survivors include a son, Robert H. Watts of Forsyth; two daughters: Jeannie M. (Bob) Bird of Bismarck, N.D., and Judi (Steve) Erickson of Greeley, Colo.; two brothers:  Harvey of Miles City and Herb (Dottie) of Livingston; a sister, Isabelle Myran of Miles City; 12 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lydia; a daughter, Kandace Ginther; a sister, Annabelle Jones; and five brothers:  Homer, Howard, Harry, Herman and Harold.
The family will receive friends Thursday, June 25, 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Friday, June 26, 2009, at 10 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
     Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the First Lutheran Church or the charity of one’s choice.

Ida Moos

Ida Moos, 86, of Circle died Sunday, June 21, 2009, in Circle.
Mrs. Moos was born June 24, 1922, in Watkins to Reinholt and Pauline Schlepp Naasz on the homestead home. She attended school in Prairie County. The Naasz School was built in 1928 on her parents’ land because the Hammand and Hedstrom schools were too far away for a number of families. Mrs. Moos said the Naasz School was one mile from their place and they either walked or went by sled and horses in the winter time. Her folks supplied water for the school, so on occasion she was able to “hitch a ride” a few times a week. She remembered when this school was built as the carpenter stayed at her folks’ place and entertained the family with his violin playing. She thought of him every time she heard “Turkey in the Straw.”
Mrs. Moos talked of her memories of growing up. She was one of seven girls. They took turns with farm chores, like milking lots of cows by hand, raising chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigs and even bum lambs. They raised big gardens, including lots of watermelon and muskmelon, which they would eat for lunch during the harvest time. She was elected to be the driver of the header box with her mother and another sister as grain handlers. Her father drove the header. They all helped to unload and her mother usually stacked. This was all done by horses. Some neighbors had a threshing machine to hire out and there were many long hours put in at threshing time. They put up all the hay with horses as long as Mrs. Moos was home. She looked forward to social activities such as Christmas programs, dances, sled riding and card parties.
On May 23, 1940, she and Edwin Moos were married in Miles City. In the fall of 1940, they moved to Circle and began raising their family there on the farm. They were blessed with four children, Doline, Don, Janice and Eldon. Mr. and Mrs. Moos shared 69 years together.
Mrs. Moos was a member of the Brockway Community Church, teaching Sunday School for 25 years. She loved raising flowers, fair exhibits (wheat exhibits that she went through kernel by kernel, taking the Grand Champion trophy) crocheting, promoting music, singing, reading and playing cards.
Her survivors include her husband, Edwin; children, Doline (Earl) Fritz of Brockway, Don (Nancy) Moos of Circle, Janice (Paul) Albert of Evanston, Wyo., and Eldon (Dana) Moos of Sidney; grandchildren, Rick Fritz , Mike Fritz, Sheila O’Brien, Amy Gilbertson, William Albert, Michelle Syth, Cassandra Moos and Alan Moos; 11 great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Annette Kaul of Missoula, Bertha Schlepp of Circle and Katie Boyles of Glendive.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Reinholt and Pauline Naasz; and three sisters, Mathilda Schlepp, Maggie Erlenbusch and Martha Erlenbusch.
Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 26, 2009, at the First Lutheran Church in Circle. Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Circle under the direction of Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Circle.
Condolences may be sent to the family at csmc@nemontel.net or www.stevensonandsons.com.
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Betty Frances Grant Chezum
 Betty Frances Grant Chezum, 82, of Miles City died Thursday, June 18, 2009, at her home.
Betty Francis Grant was born to Grace Barbara and William B. Grant in Forsyth on Nov. 22, 1926. She grew up in Forsyth, spending time at her Aunt Thelma and Uncle Harold Pope’s ranch on Tongue River and her Aunt Gertrude and Uncle Melby’s ranch in Dayton, Wyo. She still visited frequently with her cousin, Wanda Melby Needens. Mrs. Chezum said they were a year apart as close as sisters.
Because her mother, Grace, made her living playing the piano for silent movies and events, Mrs. Chezum stood alone and sang the old songs u1ith her beautiful alto voice. A record of her songs was cut, but was misplaced over the years.
When her husband, Dick Chezum, met her, she was 17 and singing at a country dance. They were married and had Teri, Jerianne, Sherm, Mary Beth and Barbara.
When Mr. and Mrs. Chezum first built their house on Moon Creek, the neighborhood consisted of old-time bachelors in every direction. They all loved to come in for a visit and meal. Hubert Harwood and Joe McGuire were bachelors at the time and got Mrs. Chezum started in cooking and baking. The rest she learned on her own.
Mrs. Chezum’s home always had room for all and was a celebration of life. Many extra children lived there for a time. Visitors were many and made welcome. Dick McGuire and Sherm spent many hours together. Mrs. Chezum loved the community and held many offices in the Moon Creek CowBelles. Cowboy Polo Games were held many Sundays along with potluck meals and sandhills full of children.
She was a fun-loving mother. On stormy days the children were allowed to build tent cities with blankets. Mrs. Chezum could sure read a story and make it come alive.
When Mrs. Chezum drove the school bus the children listened to radio soap opera every morning. When the bus arrived at the Moon Creek School, everyone sat there until the story was over for the day.
Mrs. Chezum is survived by her children: Teri (Glenn) Heitz of Terry, Jerianne (Owen) Jones of Lakewood, Colo., Sherman (Chris) Chezum of Miles City, Mary Beth (Myron) Kibler of Sand Springs, and Barbara (Troy) Coyle of Park City, Utah; two sisters-in-law, Mary Ellen Anderson of Ismay and Margaret (Barney) Jones of Anchorage, Alaska; a step-brother, Dale Grant of Denver, Colo.; and her step-mother, Vivian Grant of Denver; 14 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Chezum; and her parents, Bill Grant and Grace Shy.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 25, 2009, at 11 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Interment will be Thursday, June 25, 2009, at 3 p.m. at the Knowlton 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.

George M. Trotskky
George M. Trotsky, 88, died Saturday, June 20, 2009, in his home.
Mr. Trotsky lived a long, wholesome life of simplicity and peace. He received the Bronze Star for valor in combat at Normandy, D-Day+1.
He returned to his home in Edwardsville, Pa., and married his wife of 50 years, Veronica Sheilds.
Mr. Trotsky worked as a back and stonemason until his retirement. He appreciated the value of honesty and friendship. His humor was uplifting to everyone.
His survivor is his only child, Thomas Trotsky, M.D., who has been the only full-time primary physician at the Miles City Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic and nursing home and also primary physician for the veterans residing at the Eastern Montana Veterans Home in Glendive.
Mr. Trotsky was a born again Christian who was baptized in the Glendive First Baptist Church in February 2005.
His favorite saying was “The Love of the Lord drives away all fear.” The circumstances of his death are a testament to the absolute truth.
Cremation has taken place at the Eastern Montana Crematory. Friends are invited to attend a graveside service in his honor at the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery on Friday, June 26, 2009, at 11 a.m.
Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Anna Margaret (Wangen) Wolff
            Anna Margaret Wangen Wolff, died Sunday, June 21, 2009.
She was born to Ted and Mary Wangen on April 6, 1928, on the family farm near Brockway. She received her education in Brockway and Circle.
In 1946, she married Robert Wolff and they made their home on a farm and ranch southwest of Brockway. Mr. and Mrs. Wolff retired and moved to Miles City in their later years.
Mrs. Wolff was an excellent cook and enjoyed sharing her baked goods with others, especially cinnamon rolls for her grandchildren. She loved to see the world and traveled to many places including her ancestral homes in Norway and the Czech Republic. Her favorite pastimes were reading, quilting, needlework and visiting with good friends over a cup of coffee.
Mrs. Wolff will be remembered for her helping hands and caring ways. The good times and adventures the family members had together will always be in their hearts. How fortunate they were to share in her world of good food, good books and exploring new places. They will forever carry a part of her spirit with them.
Her survivors include her husband, Robert; sister, Gladys Cole of Minnesota and Wisconsin; son, Dennis (Karen) of Circle; daughters, Benna Tiensvold (Mel) of Prescott, Ariz., Robin Wolff (Rodd Hamman) of Billings, Laura Zimmerman (Ric) of Billings; five grandchildren, Eric Wolff (Denelle), Kristi Wolff, Alex Hamman, Ben and Bryan Zimmerman; three great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Joseph.
Cremation has taken place. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 25, 2009, at 2 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church in Circle. Inurnment will follow at 4 p.m. at the Brockway Cemetery.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Rocky Mountain Hospice.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www. stevensonandsons.com.

"Babe" Sandall

Born on Dec. 1, 1918, to Chris and Caroline Nehlich, “Babe” Sandall of Broadus died Thursday, April 2, 2009, and shared a special reunion with her husband, Warren.
She grew up on a ranch north of Broadus, homesteaded by her parents.
She and Warren Sandall met in Broadus before World War II. They married in June of 1941 and following Mr. Sandall’s time in the military they moved to northern California. There, they share-cropped on a large ranch outside of Orland where they raised barley, sheep and other crops.
Her survivors include her sister, Anna Skaggs in Shepherd and Anna’s children, Dallas Slayton, Monta Lou Groshelle, Duane Broaddus, Vickie Skaggs and Ron Skaggs; and sister Lela Bandy and family in Belle Fouche, S.D. Special to Mrs. Sandall throughout her life were her two nephews, Duane Broaddus (wife, Corky) of Leavenworth, Wash., and Barry McKenzie (wife Lynn) of Reno, Nev., and their families.
She was preceded in death by both parents; brothers: Otto and Harry Nehlich; and sister: Emma Lockwood.  
Duane and Barry had the opportunity to grow up with their special aunt and uncle and to learn and work the ranching way of life. Having no children of their own, Mr. and Mrs. Sandall were very happy to have Duane and Barry with them throughout their young lives.
In 1969, Mr. Sandall’s life was cut short in a tragic car accident and Mrs. Sandall moved back to her family home in Broadus. She lived in the little red house at the top of the hill in Broadus until 2007, when she moved into the Eagles Manor in Miles City. As her health began to fail in February 2009, Mrs. Sandall moved in with Duane and Corky Broaddus in Leavenworth, Wash., and lived at Mountain Meadows until her death.
Mrs. Sandall was an enthusiastic league bowler and her team from Broadus competed in the doubles National Tournaments several times. She will always be remembered for her fun sense of humor, sour cream raisin pies, card playing, arts and craft building and her delicious pot roast dinners.
Graveside services for Lorena “Babe” Sandall will be Saturday, June 27, 2009, at 1 p.m. at the Valley View Cemetery in Broadus. A luncheon will follow at the Community Center.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Broadus is in charge of the arrangements.

Skippy L. McLaughlin

Skippy L. McLaughlin, 78, of Terry died Friday, May 22, 2009, at home of kidney failure.
Cremation has taken place. Burial will be in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery south of Mandan, N.D., on Thursday, June 25, 2009, at 2 p.m.
Mr. McLaughlin was born Nov. 13, 1930, in Britton, S.D.
He served two years in the Navy.
He and Patricia Weber were married in 1950. To this union were born four sons: Michael, Boyd, Bradley and Kelly.
On Sept. 21, 1986, Mr. McLaughlin and Shirley K. Kauffman were married in Billings.
Mr. McLaughlin was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Boyd and Bradley.
His survivors include his wife, Shirley; brother, Mearl Ashley of Britton; son, Michael (Darlene) of Mandan, N.D.; son, Kelly (Teri) of Black Hawk, Colo.; daughter, Tura (Jim) Butcher of Billings; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two sisters and brothers-in-law; one niece; and three nephews.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Terry has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Justin Oliver Lab

Justin Oliver Lab, 32, of Belgrade died Sunday, June 14, 2009, in Belgrade.
Mr. Lab was born on March 24, 1977 in Miles City to Forrest and Fay Lab. He graduated from Great Falls High in 1996. His father was in the military, so he traveled to many places, including Germany.
Mr. Lab was born with a heart defect and after his heart surgery at seven months of age, doctors did not expect him to make it to the age of 16 and said that he wouldn’t be able to play, ride a bike, or climb a tree. But he did the opposite. God blessed him and us and let him be on this earth for many more wonderful years that he would bring us happiness.
Doctors also said Mr. Lab wouldn’t be able to have children, but God also blessed him with two wonderful boys, Brandon and Jackson. He will always be remembered as compassionate and sincere.
Mr. Lab was preceded in death by his uncle, Jack Morrow and grandfather, Asie Stearns.
His survivors include his two sons, Brandon and Jackson; his mother, Fay Lab of Bozeman; father, Forrest Lab of Columbus, Ohio; brother, Steven (Shandra) Lab of Belgrade; sisters, Angela (Sandy) Djuli of Kileen, Texas, Shanna Haid of Belgrade, and Jennifer (Robert) Lab of Marysville, Calif.; cousins, Monte Tredway of Livingston, Ace, Dana, Jason, Addi Beth, Paul, Julie and numerous other cousins; Madison, Max, Trevon, Sierra, Brian, Alyssia and Liani; grandmother, Elizabeth Stearns of Miles City; grandmother, Ardella Justice; aunts, Phebe (Wayne), Phyllis and June; uncle, Clay; as well as numerous other relatives.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at 3 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.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Thelma C. Uerling

Thelma C. Uerling of Miles City, 91, died June 15, 2009 at her home in Miles City.
Thelma C. Denson was born March 15, 1918 in Miles City, Mont., to Farnham L. Denson and Wanda C. Kelly. She grew up and attended school in Miles City and graduated from Custer County High School. After high school, she attended beauty school in Minneapolis, Minn. Soon after she graduated she met the love of her life, Allan M. Uerling. Allan and Thelma were married on September 27, 1948 in Minneapolis, Minn. After they were married they moved back to Miles City, where she made her home ever since, still living in the same house that Allan had built when they moved back.
Mrs. Uerling worked as a beautician here in Miles City, in the Milligan Hotel. After retiring from close to 20 years as a beautician she remained very active, donating much of her time to charities such as St. Vincent DePaul and the Miles City Food Bank. She was always proud that her father served as mayor of Miles City for nearly a decade. She also shared a special bond with her brother, Leon, whom she loved very much.
Mrs. Uerling was an avid seamstress and knitter, and she had knitted countless afghans for people throughout the years. She loved to read as many books as she was able to, which helped keep her quick wits, but she truly enjoyed keeping up on the latest community news with all her friends.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Miles City Town and Country Club.
Mrs. Uerling is survived by her brother, Leon W. Denson of Miles City; one niece and three nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Allan Uerling; one son, Mike; and her parents.
A visitation for Thelma C. Uerling will be held from 1-4 p.m. with a service to follow at 4 p.m. Monday, June 22, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home.  A private family burial will be held at a later time at the family burial blot at the Custer County Cemetery.

Darline Sturdevant Hoff

June 18 Darline Sturdevant Hoff, age 78, of Miles City died Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at her home in Miles City.
Mrs. Hoff was born on November 23, 1930 at Miles City, Mont., in the “Birthing bed” at her grandparents’ home at 1105 Leighton Blvd. in Miles City. She was the daughter of Lester Lee and Ina Mae (Timberman) Sturdevant.  
She was raised for 2 years at Paragon, and 11 years at Sheffield, where she attended Calabar School through the seventh grade.  Her parents then moved to Miles City, where she graduated from Custer County High School and from Miles Community College.  She worked at F.W. Woolworth, Foster Drug Store, the Met Café, and for Dr. M.L. Freese, until she started her career with the federal government for the Bureau of Reclamation. 
She was married to Raymond Clayton Hoff in 1952 and then transferred to the VA Medical Center until she retired in May of 1987.  She was then employed by the Degree of Honor Protective Association as State Fraternal Director until 1989, when she became State Director and retired from that position in 1999.  Following retirement, she continued as Local Organizer in Montana until her passing.  She was also an Honorary National officer as well as Honorary National Past President.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Esther Circle, UMW, Degree of Honor #99 as a youth member graduating into the adult lodge, and then in 1985 was President for the DOH Service Club #505, Degree of Honor Past Presidents Club, OES Chapter 25, VFW Auxiliary, and was an assistant Girl Scout Leader.
Mrs. Hoff’s survivors include four daughters:  Marla (Marvin) Zimmer of Miles City, Mont.; Penny (Steve) Taylor of Great Falls, Mont.; Wanda (Vern) Bankey of Miles City, Mont.; and Robyn (Sam) Loumer of Bismarck, N.D.; 12 grandchildren:  Kandi Tolzien of Baker, Kevin Zimmer, Krista Zimmer, Keisha (Frank) Jimison and Kaila Zimmer of Miles City; Michael, Jeffrey, and Bethany Taylor of Great Falls, Mont.; Leann Bankey of Miles City, Katie (Bill) Lien of Miles City, Angie (Sean) Kiesz of Bismarck, N.D., Michelle Loumer of Bismarck, N.D.; great-grandchildren:  Brittany, Taylee and Tylon Tolzien of Baker; Sara and Zack Zimmer; Michael, Isaak and Kimberly Lien of Miles City; Connor Kiesz of Bismarck, N.D.; and Aurora Darline Jimison of Miles City; a sister, Joan (Sam) Ohnstad; a sister-in-law, Ynes Sturdevant of Miles City; and several nieces, nephews and cousins; and honorary granddaughter Tana Markova of Prague, Czech Republic.
 She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers:  Gilbert Lee Sturdevant and William Darwin Sturdevant.
 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at 10 a.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the family lot of the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.  Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Relay For Life Foundation in care of Wanda Bankey, 1816 Riverside, Miles City, MT 59301.

Darleen M. Steinert Nelson
 Darleen M. Steinert Nelson, age 81, of Homestead, MT, and Williston, ND passed away Sunday, June 14, 2009 at Trinity Hospital in Wolf Point.
 Darleen was born November 27, 1927 in Biddle, MT, the daughter of John and Laura Caldwell Sams. She moved with her family to Miles City, MT at a young age.
 At age 18 she married Vernon Steinert; they divorced in 1980. In 1981 she met Melvin Nelson and they were marred on Oct. 30, 1981. She moved to his farm west of Homestead where they farmed for 16 years before moving to Williston, ND in 1997. They lived in Williston until March of 2009 when Darleen and her husband, Melvin, moved to Faith Lutheran Home inWolf Point. They were blessed with the past 27 years together.
 Darleen was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin, just two days before her own passing. She was also preceded by her parents; three brothers, Harold, Orval and John; one sister, Edith;, one half-brother, Burton Artlip; and a special grandson, Bryce Cotton.
 Darleen is survived by three children: Terry (Shirley) Steinert of Red Lodge, MT, Diane Molstad of Miles City, MT and Verna (Kent) Cotton of Wolf Point; seven grandchildren: Lynette, Deryk, Danny, Farrah, Jason, Nathan and April; and six great-grandchildren: Braden, Bailey, Brydger, Abby, Ethan and Isaiah; two sisters, Grace Peterson of Miles City, MT and Pearl Slackport of Townsend, WA; one brother, Carl R. Sams of Sunnyside, WA; three half-brothers, Boyd Ray of Portland, OR, Theron Ray of Sacramento, CA and Melvin Ray of Missouri; and one half-sister, Lila Ashpole of Portland, OR.
 Funeral Services for Darleen and her husband, Melvin, will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 19, 2009 at Homestead Lutheran Church officiated by Pastor Johnette Grefe. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Interment will follow at Big Lake Cemetery. A luncheon will be served following at the Homestead American Legion Hall.
 Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com. Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Gordon Myhre
A Reflection of Life Service for Gordon Myhre, 73, husband of Mary Ann Myhre, was held Friday evening, Feb. 20, 2009, at Clark Legacy Center in Versailles, Ky., with Father Dan Noll officiating.
Mr. Myhre, a former Miles City resident, died Monday, Feb. 16, 2009, in Versailles.
He was born in Baker on March 16, 1935, to the late Helen and Orville C. Myhre. Mr. Myhre and his family were longtime residents of Miles City. He and his younger sister, Lois, attended Custer County High School where he graduated in 1953.
He was a retired hospital administrator for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and also a former employee of Woodford Hills Country Club.
Mr. Myhre liked playing golf, reading, traveling and playing with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Joy (Jason) Henson of Lexington, Ky., and Karen (David) Venis of Versailles; three sons, Scott (Erin) Myhre of Lexington, Gregory (Amy) Myhre of Wisconsin and Craig Myhre of England; his grandchildren, Madison Henson, Ella Myhre, Dylan Venis, Jennifer Myhre, Hannah Myhre, Abbey Myhre, Greg Myhre and Nicolas Myhre.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Lois.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Leo Capital Campaign, 295 Huntertown Rd., Versailles, KY 40383 or Hospice of the Bluegrass, 208 Steele St., Frankfort, KY 40601.

Rowland Limberhand Harstad
Rowland Limberhand Harstad died at Campbell County Memorial Hospital, Sunday, June 14, 2009 from unknown causes.  A memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m., Wednesday, June 17, 2009 with Pastor Jeff Garrett officiating at Walker Funeral Home, 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, Wyoming 82716. 

Raymond H. Schell
Funeral Services for Raymond H. Schell, 71, of Baker were Monday afternoon, June 15, 2009, in the Chapel of Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker with Pastors Bruce and Reba Kolasch officiating.
Interment followed in the Peace Lutheran Cemetery at Plevna. 
Mr. Schell died Thursday, June 11, 2009, at the Fallon Medical Complex Nursing Home in Baker.
He was born in Ismay on Feb. 20, 1938, a son of Jacob Jr. and Luella Louise Ehret Schell. He grew up on the Schell farm outside of Ismay. He lived the life of an average young boy until he was five years of age when he suffered a severe reaction to a small pox vaccination. His life would be forever changed.
Mr. Schell lived in various places throughout Montana including, Boulder, Glendive and Bozeman where he met and made many friends. He enjoyed having coffee with his family and friends, eating chocolates, bowling, listening to Country Music and would sing his favorite song, “You are My Sunshine.”
Though he faced many challenges throughout life, his family loved him unconditionally. In his final hours, his brothers and sisters surrounded him with their love and care to the end. 
Mr. Schell is survived by his brothers, Clarence (Dolores) Schell of Baker, Lloyd (Marge) Schell Sr. of Billings and Larry (Janice) Schell of Baker; his sisters, Alice Turner and Florence Haga both of Baker and Mary Ann Lecoe of Marmarth, N.D.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Luella; an infant brother, Vernon; and a sister, Lillian Case.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com

Margie Harbaugh
Margie Harbaugh of Jordan, 99, the oldest resident of Garfield County, died Friday, June 12, 2009 in Jordan.
Mrs. Harbaugh was born on April 3, 1910, in Antler, N.D., to Jake and Celia Fellman.  In 1910, the word “horsepower” had a different meaning as her father owned and operated a livery stable in Antler.  She had no memory of her mother, as Celia died on December 31, 1914, which was her husband’s (Jake’s) birthday. Her family of two brothers - Edwin and Phil Fellman - and her father, Jake moved to Garfield County in 1916 as homesteaders. 
She married Carl Harbaugh in 1927.  Both confessed it was love at first sight.  The two of them ranched on the Harbaugh family homestead, which was filed in 1910, and in 1935 they moved two miles east and established a new ranch.  The three boys, Carl, Gene and Don, grew up on the ranch.  
Mrs. Harbaugh lived through WWI, the Depression, numerous droughts and cold winters, grasshopper plagues, WWII, a house fire that consumed all personal possessions, a bank failure that erased all the family funds, and rationing, but she kept on saying, “you just do what you got to do.” She also guided a very rambunctious cowboy through 68 years of marriage. Along the way she prepared at least 10,000 meals for unexpected ranch guests and taught anyone willing to participate that cards are played with passion.  She was an avid bird-watcher, a self-described “inveterate reader,” and a crossword puzzle fanatic. She never had a driver’s license or an official government picture identification.  She was 43 before she lived in a house with electricity or running water, and the telephone came later. She was also a member of the Community Presbyterian Church in Jordan.
She was best friend and mother to three daughters-in-law: Velma Harbaugh
(Carl) of Jordan, Mont.; Ellen (Gene) Harbaugh of Carlsbad, N.M.; and Donna (Don) Harbaugh of Missoula, Mont.  In addition to her immediate family she is survived by 11 grandchildren:  Sandra Cameron, Wade Harbaugh, Tony Harbaugh, Shane Harbaugh, Margie Rasmussen, Donna Taylor, Karen Muscanell, Steve Harbaugh, Dana Harbaugh, Carla Albert and Janet Weldon; 23 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces on the Fellman and Harbaugh families. 
On the weekend of May 1, she hosted 64 family members at Glacier Lodge on Flathead Lake, keeping her reputation intact for hosting great family and friend events.
 Visitation will begin on Friday, June 19, 2009 at 4 p.m. at the Jordan Community Presbyterian Church in Jordan.  A family service will be held on Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Presbyterian Church in Jordan.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at 11 a.m. at the VFW Hall in Jordan.  Interment will follow in the family lot of the Pioneer Cemetery.
 Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Community Presbyterian Church in Jordan or the charity of one’s choice.

Donna Lucille Junge Farnsworth

Donna Lucille Junge Farnsworth, 81, of Jordan died at her home in Jordan on Wednesday, June 10, 2009, surrounded by her family.
She was born to Will and Clarice Esther Gilbertson Junge on Jan. 21, 1928, in Bennett County, at the Richardson house, near Vetal, S.D. She joined one sister Luella and a brother William “Billie.” Her parents came from Nibraire, Neb., and after their move, the family remained in South Dakota where her father built a sod house. It had a wooden roof with tar paper covered by sod, three sliding windows, two smaller lift windows and was heated with wood and coal. The inside was some kind of plaster that her mother white washed. After Mrs. Farnsworth, four more sisters were born: Grace, Dorthy, Elsie and Esther.
Mrs. Farnsworth’s parents then moved the family to a farm-ranch near Patricia, S.D. She spent many summers staying with her grandparents, Gorge and Anna Gilbertson near Parmelee, S.D. Mrs. Farnsworth did a lot of outdoor work to help around the farm while she was growing up and she spent hours driving horses, running horse machinery, riding and caring for cattle. She also learned how to keep house at an early age. She was her father’s helper after grade school. She milked cows with her sisters and sold cream buy groceries. Life in the 1930s was hard and there was very little to eat at times.
Her mother loved to sing and play the piano, and the children carried on this love of music. She started singing in school programs before she began school. She later learned to cord guitar while singing which she enjoyed. Mrs. Farnsworth started school at the age of 6. She loved school and did well there, attending through the 10th grade in Martin, S.D. When she was older, she wanted to complete her degree, and after taking two years of correspondence by mail, she earned her high school diploma at the age of 57.
Mrs. Farnsworth broke her leg in a compound fracture at the age of 18 years. It was a horse accident at the county fair in Martin, S.D.  She was flown to Valentine, Neb., for treatment by Earl Guptool. She walked on crutches for seven years, wearing a cast for five years and a brace for two years on this leg, but walked on it from age 25 to 81 with no problems.
She met Leonard Farnsworth near Kadoka S.D., during the summer of 1950. They were married June 20, 1951, and lived there a little more than a year. Mr. Farnsword spent five months in the service and was medically discharged because of physical problems. They moved to Montana in 1952 to a ranch in the Long Pine hills and lived there for 16 years. Mrs. Farnsworth loved to cook for people who stopped for visits. She baked her own bread, made jellies and canned a lot of food.
Mr. and Mrs. Farnsworth had seven children. Because of the smallness of the ranch and distance from school, they moved to Ekalaka and lived there for 14 years. Mrs. Farnsworth enjoyed teaching Sunday School, Bible School and Joy Club at the Baptist Church. In 1989, they moved to Miles City for six years before moving to Jordan where Mr. Farnsworth was employed by the Bureau of Land Management department. In her 70s Mrs. Farnsworth homeschooled her granddaughter, Ambra, for three years. One of her last wishes was for her granddaughter to be able to continue her education in college.
Her survivors include her loving husband of 58 years, Leonard of Jordan; four children: Lila Stark of Miles City, Phoebe Breidenbach of Jordan, Leo Farnsworth of Roundup and Letoy (Dave) Davis of Astoria, Ore.; seven grandchildren, Sayla, Anna, Mia, and Philip Davis, Haily (Leo) Farnsworth, Russell (Ray) Farnsworth, and Ambra (Phoebe) Breidenbach.
She is also survived by her brother, William; sisters, Grace, Elsie, Esther and Luella; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Will and Clarice Junge; her sister, Dorothy Hinebach; two sons, Leonard Duneane, who died at birth in 1954, Ray Aland and at the age of 32 and 11 months in 1983; daughter, Darla Kay at the age of 11 in 1969; one grandson, Marc Alan (Lila) Stark age 11 in 1992.
Graveside services will be Monday, June 15, 2009, at 11 a.m. at Custer County Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, a memorial has been set up at Garfield County Bank in Jordan for Ambra’s continuing college education in memory of Donna Farnsworth.

Joseph Scott Wheatcroft
Joseph Scott Wheatcroft, 54, of Minneapolis, Minn., died Wednesday, June 3, 2009, in Marinette, Wis.
He was born March 4, 1955, in Jordan to Edith and Robert Wheatcroft. He resided with his parents on the family ranch at Steve’s Fork, attended a rural one-room elementary school, and attended the Garfield County High School, graduating in 1973.
He attended Montana State University-Bozeman for two years and then transferred to the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis where he received a bachelor of science degree in mortuary science in 1978. He remained in Minneapolis and worked as a funeral director for 12 years.
After that he became a sales rep. with Twin Cities Casket, and then was a representative for Northwestern Casket Company for the past 17 years. His sales routes covered parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. With his dedication and personal touch, he formed strong friendships with many of his professional acquaintances.
Mr. Wheatcroft and Lori Pluhar were high school classmates and were married June 21, 1975, at the Community Presbyterian Church in Jordan. They had two daughters, Sarah Catherine Wheatcroft and Anne Theresa Wheatcroft, both born in Minneapolis.
Mr. Wheatcroft, also known as Scott, and Uncle Buck to family members, was an avid hunter and fisherman He loved walleye fishing and would go yearly with a close-knit group of friends to Ontario for a weeklong trip. Hell Creek in the early spring was also a frequent destination. More recently his sporting focus became hunting coyotes and prairie dogs and he would jump at any opportunity to go on a good hunt. He would make several hunting trips a year back to Jordan to the family ranch, which was very dear to his heart.
His wife Lori; daughters Sarah and Anne; brothers George (Tina) of Texas, John Bradley of Miles City and Richard of Sand Springs; many nieces, nephews, relatives; and very many friends survive him.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall in Jordan. Funeral services will be Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at 2 p.m. at the VFW Hall in Jordan. Interment will follow in the Steve’s Fork Community Cemetery.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Jordan is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Donations in Mr. Wheatcroft’s memory may be made to the donor’s choice.

William Richard "Bill" Clauson
William Richard “Bill” Clauson, 81, of Miles City, died Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at his home in Miles City with his family at his side.
Mr. Clauson was born in Miles City on Jan. 1, 1928, the eldest of four children born to Axel and Coralynn Holton Clauson of Cohagen. He spent his young life on the farm at Cohagen with his family, completing grade school and high school at Cohagen, graduating in 1945 top of the class (of four). One of the most vivid memories in his early childhood was a tornado in 1934, which took part of the family home and caused much destruction in the country.
Mr. Clauson often reminisced about some of the places he worked when things were slow at home as being great experiences and included trailing cattle and working for Harry Ross, the Jessens, and the Fred Reed herd he helped trail from Cohagen to Miles City in 1944 and also worked for a time at Fallon for Inland Construction, and in the fall of 1949 he worked for the Milwaukee Yards in Miles City.
In 1952, Mr. Clauson started courting his partner of 56 years, Phyllis Jacobson, a telegraph operator in Miles City. They were married on Dec. 26, 1953, and moved into a small trailer house on the ranch near Cohagen and began their happy life together. A son Tim joined them in 1955, daughter Judy in 1956, and son David in 1959. When news of David joining them came, they built a small home and thought it was a mansion after living in the little trailer home.
The ranch started growing with the help of the children and small parcels of land becoming available. They started purchasing parcels of land including some from Ricki Williams, Svensons, Michaels, Secrest, Nelsons and leasing some from McClung, Artz, Pfeifers and McKinney. Eventually a nice small ranch developed and was enjoyed and worked by the Bill Clauson family.
Mr. Clauson served his community well, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He served on many boards including Community Club, Roping Club, Cemetery Board, Garfield County Hospital Board, ASC Community, then the Farm Credit Services for 25 years and the Interstate FCS for three years. He also presently served on the Range Riders Museum Board and was president of the Southeastern Montana Fiddlers.
They sold the ranch in the early 1990s and moved to a little acreage in the Pine Hills east of Miles City, selling in 2007 and moving into Miles City where they remained.
Mr. Clauson’s survivors include his wife, Phyllis Clauson of Miles City; two sons: Tom Clauson of Miles City and David Clauson of Indiana; a daughter, Judy (Rob) Reukauf of Terry; five grandchildren: Bret, Casey, Jesse, Jill and Robbyn; two brothers: Ray (Sheri) Clauson of Miles City and Nick (Betty) Clauson of Miles City; and a sister, Hazel (Bob) Stabler of Miles City.
The family will receive friends Friday, June 12, 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Saturday, June 13, 2009, at 1 p.m. in the First Lutheran Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery with Masonic Graveside Rites.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Glen L. Kiser

Glen L. Kiser, 72, of East Carbon, Utah, former Miles City resident, died Saturday, May 30, 2009, in East Carbon, at his home surrounded by his family.
Mr. Kiser was born Oct. 9, 1936, in Miles City to Curtis Mearl and Vera Ione Carter Kiser. He was raised in Miles City and Coalwood.
He and Betty Lloyd were married on May 24, 1958, in Miles City.
Mr. Kiser lived in Billings; Powell, Wyo.; Laramie, Wyo.; Newell, S.D.; and most recently resided in East Carbon.
He was a farmer and rancher of sheep and cattle. Mr. Kiser enjoyed riding horses. He loved all types of animals, especially his two dogs, Mitzi and Peanuts. He liked working outside in his yard and garden, and also enjoyed camping with his friends and family.
One of his passions was playing cards and he enjoyed country music and dancing. The creed he lived by was honesty and his word was his bond.
Mr. Kiser enjoyed traveling with his wife and especially enjoyed their trips to Branson, Mo., Arkansas, Louisiana and New Mexico to name a few. Most important to him were his wife, three children and grandchildren, whom he loved.
His survivors include his wife, Betty; three children, Janet Lei (Dave) Virnig, Little Falls, Minn., Jerri Lynn (Randy) Timothy, Price, Utah, and Johnny Dee (Debra) Kiser, Iowa, La.; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Vera Archer of Olive and Elsie Hudson of Billings; and one uncle, Frank Kiser of Montana.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Robert Archer, Jerry Hudson and Mearl (Jessie) Kiser; and his parents.
Memorial services were Thursday morning, June 4, 2009, at the Fausett Mortuary, 680 E. 100 S., Price, Utah. Burial will be Friday, June 12, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.
A reception will follow the burial service in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall, 119 N. Sixth St. in Miles City.

Violet May (Cridland-Draper) Smith
Violet May (Cridland-Draper) Smith, 87, died Monday, June 1, 2009, in Sacramento, Calif.
She was born July 13, 1921, in Ekalaka.
Her survivors include her children, Mary Hodge and Al Draper; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Margaret Stevens of Yuma, Ariz.; and a brother, Clarence Cridland of Miles City.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Smith; her son, Ted Draper; her mother, Maude (Staley, Cridland) Allen; her father, Cyril Cridland; her sister, Gladys Henry and Edith Brewer; and her brothers, Arnold Cridland (killed in Korea) and Leonard Cridland.
A memorial service will be Saturday, June 13, 2009, at 1 p.m. in Life Pointe Church of the Nazarene, 7200 Rio Linda Blvd., Rio Linda, CA 95673, where she was a member.

William Charles "Billy" Trusler
William Charles “Billy” Trusler died Saturday, June 6, 2009, with his loving wife, daughter and granddaughter by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mr. Trusler was a third generation rancher of an old-time pioneer family of the Otter Creek area. He was born in Miles City on Nov. 27, 1936, to W.W. and Gladys Mondor Trusler. He was raised on the family ranch where his father taught him the ropes of ranching. He attended elementary school at Willow Crossing country school near Ashland and graduated from Colstrip High School in 1954. Throughout high school he enjoyed playing sports and lettered in football and baseball.
He then attended Trade School in Fargo, N.D., to study diesel mechanics.
On June 16, 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Jacqueline Rukavina. Together they lived on the family ranch and raised their children.
Mr. Trusler was a regular “Jack-of-all-Trades.” He was a carpenter, a plumber, a craftsman, a mechanic, but most of all he was a rancher at heart. He loved working cattle on his ranch with his two sons. If he was not tending to his cattle or ranch, Mr. Trusler could be found moving dirt with his Caterpillar machinery. He was really just a kid at heart playing in the dirt.
In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking in his shop. Mr. Trusler loved to make people laugh and could bring a smile to their faces. He was always telling jokes and reminiscing about the good ol’ days. He has too many great qualities to list. He was hard working, very generous and never one to waste anything. Most of all he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.
Mr. Trusler is home at last on his ranch in his final resting place. His spirit will always live on in his family and friends. He will always be loved and never forgotten.
His survivors include his wife of 52 years, Jackie; his sons: John C. of Ashland, Ernie Bill (Vanessa) of Ashland; his daughter: Vonnie Jo (Tim) Stroebe of Colstrip; his grandchildren: Kari (Anthony) Popke, Jennifer Trusler, Shane and Kevyn Stroebe, Traven, Tiarra, and Teegan Trusler; his great-grandchildren: Rylan, RaeAnn, and Tristen Popke; his sister: Judy (Vic) Rue of McLeod; his sister-in-law: Trudy (Raymond) Streeter of Cody, Wyo.; his brother-in-law: Jan (Debbie) Rukavina of Cody, Wyo.; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, W.W. and Gladys Mondor Trusler; and his infant daughter, Jerry Lynn.
A Rosary and Memorial Service will be Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at 7 p.m. at the St. Labre Catholic Church. in Ashland. Funeral Mass will be Thursday, June 11, 2009, at 2 p.m. at the St. Labre Catholic Church. Interment will follow in the Willow Crossing Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Kenna Emmons Benefit at the 1st Bank of Broadus.

Harlan Minnich Lund
Harlan Minnich Lund, 81, died Wednesday, June 3, 2009. He died doing one of things he loved best — visiting historical sites — enroute to his granddaughter’s wedding in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Mr. Lund was born in Sherwood, N.D., on Feb. 8, 1928, to Christian and Greta Lund. His father, Christian Lund, died in 1935 and his mother, Greta along with Harlan and his younger brother, Chris, relocated to Miles City where she married Ray Lundby. Mr. Lund’s mother and step-father, along with additional siblings Ray and Maureen, successfully operated the Penguin Ice Cream Shop in downtown Miles City. Mr. Lund graduated from Custer County High School in 1946 and then served two years in the United States Navy while attending college at the School of Mines in Boulder, Colo.
He and Joanne Lewis, also of Miles City, were married on Feb. 27, 1953. Mr. Lund then spent much of his early career as part of seismograph crew, traveling as far south as Louisiana and as far north as Alberta, Canada.
However, he brought his young family back to Montana in 1955, settling on Nimitz Drive in Billings, and assumed a position as a surveyor for the Yellowstone County Surveyor’s Office. This was the start of his extensive career with that office as he was elected Yellowstone County Surveyor in 1962, serving eight terms for a total of 32 years and retiring in 1990.
He is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children, Christian of New Ipswich, N.H., Steven of Huntley, and Kimberly Patterson of Houston, Texas; his brother, Chris Lund of Miles City; his sister, Maureen Secrest of Crow Agency; 12 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his father, Christian Lund; his mother, Greta Lund; his step-father Ray Lundby; his brother, Ray Lundby; and his nephew, Jerry Lund.
The memorial service will be at Faith Chapel, 517 Shiloh Road in Billings on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at 3 p.m. The services will be conducted by Pastor Ron Todd and Mr. Lund’s brother-in-law, Paul Lewis.

Helen Elizabeth Weeding Buffington
Helen Elizabeth Weeding Buffington was surrounded by her family when she quietly died on Friday, June 5, 2009. She was a resident of Gateway Gardens in Eugene, Ore., but spent most of her life in Jordan.
Born May 3, 1928, in Miles City to John and Juanita Howe Weeding, she attended Butte Creek Country School and graduated from Garfield County High School in Jordan in 1946.
She was married to Kester Buffington on May 3, 1949. They lived on ranches in Garfield County, and later lived in Bozeman and in Spokane, Wash. They had five children. They were divorced in 1970, after which she returned to Jordan where she raised her three younger children.
While living in Spokane she was on a women’s bowling league and appeared on the “Queen for a Day” television show. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and watching NBA basketball. She was an amazing artist working with ceramics, china painting and oil painting and was well known for her award winning choke cherry jelly. Her good friend Phyllis Watt recruited her help in starting the Double A 4-H club in Jordan and she taught herself woodworking so she could teach it to the children.
An inherently warm person, she had a wonderful sense of humor and made friends with everyone she met. She was devoted to her children and family, putting them before herself in everything. Her door was always open and she loved nothing better than to gather with family to play card games where she was occasionally caught slipping a card under the table to her granddaughter. According to her, anytime was the right time for a big dish of vanilla ice cream and that enjoyment stayed with her until her death.
After returning to Jordan she held many different jobs from working at the hospital, to cleaning Garfield County Bank, from working at the Garfield Motel, to working as a caregiver for several elderly people in town. She always took pride in the work she did. For many years she babysat young children in her home and she became “Grandma Helen” to them all.
Her survivors include her children, sons: Donald (Jina) Buffington, Vancouver, Wash., Wilton (Tina) Buffington, Vancouver and Paul Buffington, Carson City, Nev.; daughters: Patsy (Ron) Keeling, LaCenter, Wash., and Teresa (Curtis) Archer, Prineville, Ore.; grandchildren: David Keeling, Peter (Sarah) Keeling, John Keeling, Kasey Buffington, Jessica (Joe) Church and Kenney Jones; five great-grandchildren; siblings: Mabel Worthington, Ardella Taylor and Jim Ady all of Montana, and Bill Ady of Washington; as well as many multiples of nephews, nieces and other family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Daniel Weeding, Art Weeding, Bennie Weeding, Howard Ady, Mary Gibson Barnes and Ed Ady.
Graveside service will be Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 1101 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver, Wash., with viewing at 1 p.m.
Memorials may be sent to the Garfield County 4-H Council, P.O. Box 81, Jordan, MT 59337.

Muriel K. Baker
Muriel K. Baker, 95, was born April 19, 1914 in Golva, N.D.
She spent her formative years in Hollywood, Calif. The family returned to Golva where she completed her education.
She helped her mother care for their family, after the death of her father. Mrs. Baker was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1968. Sharing her wisdom, she enjoyed meeting new people.
Through the years, she was involved in the hotel business. Making friends along the way as a clerk at the The Ingham, Miles Howard, and her favorite The Milligan Hotel in Miles City. With her beautiful smile and great sense of humor, she was a joy to all who knew her.
She leaves behind sons, Duane [Virginia] Strohmayer and Gary [Myrna] Baker; daughter, Jeanette [Paul] Christensen and their children Rusty [Connie] Strohmayer, Rick [Renee], Rodney Strohmayer; Brad [Betty] Christensen, Mindi [Mike] Rothwell, Cory [Jessica] Baker, Elise Johnson, Kyla and Ashley Baker; and great-grandchildren, Sheena, Taz, Jordon, Shaneal, Tai, Tasha, Brittany, Jazmine Strohmayer, Austin and Mark Christensen, Siera, Jaden, Jazlyn Baker, Madison and Markus Rothwell, and Jonah Johnson.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Fred and Stella Gearey; sisters, Alvina Wassmann and Luella Wright; brother, Alvin Gearey; two husbands, Joe Strohmayer and Harold Baker; and granddaughter, Cami Christensen.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, June 5, 2009, in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. A Funeral Service will be Saturday, June 6, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth, with a luncheon to follow. Private burial will be in the Whitefish Cemetery at a later date.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth has been entrusted with these arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.

Judith Anne Volz
Judith Anne Volz, 60, of Miles City died Saturday May 30, 2009, at Holy Rosary Hospital, after a courageous battle with heart failure.
Mrs. Volz was born Oct. 16, 1949, in California, to Melford and Ann Graham. She was the second of three children, older brother Richard, and younger brother Dennis.
She met the love of her life in 1980, Joseph Volz, in Barstow Calif. After a short courtship, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Volz were married. They were blessed with a long life together. In June of 1987, after Mr. Volz retired from the Marine Corps, they returned to Miles City, Mr. Volz’s hometown. The couple moved to Miles City in June of 1987 to be near Mr. Volz’s family. They missed their Marine Corp friends and family, but enjoyed their new home and living close to Mr. Volz’s parents and family.
Mrs. Volz was proud that she was a mother of two great children. She worked off and on as a bartender. She had several hobbies, but her most wonderful talent was collecting key chains.
Mrs. Volz loved music and frequently commented she would love to learn to play an instrument. She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, word games and hand-held electronic games, of which she had collected several. She was also a wonderful cook and hostess and loved cooking for friends and family. Mrs. Volz was known for her charm and sense of humor and incredible attention to facts and details.
She was a longtime charter member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion auxiliaries. Over the years, Mr. and Mrs. Volz loved to travel to see family and friends and especially loved going to visit Mrs. Volz’s grandchildren. Mrs. Volz was a devoted, loving wife, caregiver, mother and grandmother.
Her survivors include: brothers, Richard Graham (currently serving in Iraq) and Dennis Graham of Tulsa, Okla.; sons, James Allan (Chipper) Morris of Las Vegas, Nev., and Jack Lee Morris of Harrisburg, Pa.; grandchildren: Kristal Kuebler of Portland Ore., Brittany Alexandra Morris and Jack Ryan Morris of Winchester, Va., Emilee Grace Ann Morris and Matthew David Lee Morris of Harrisburg, Pa.; brothers-in-law: Jacob (Freida) Volz of Miles City and Mathew (Darlene) Volz of Billings; sisters-in-law: Helen Murray of Billings and Eve McCabe of Miles City; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her beloved husband, Joseph.
A funeral service for Judith Anne Volz will be Thursday, June 4, 2009, at 10 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.

Thomas Henry Knight
Thomas Henry Knight, 62, of Miles City, formerly of Ypsilanti, MI, died suddenly Friday, May 29, 2009, from an apparent heart attack.
Mr. Knight was born on May 23, 1947, in Ypsilanti, MI, the son of Kenneth and Lillie Adiska Knight. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1966 and for many years worked for Thetford Corporation.
He graduated from Lincoln Consolidated Schools as a licensed electrician and began his career with Towler & Notar. Mr. Knight lived in Montana for most of the past 40 years and was in Michigan for a family reunion.
Being an avid hunter and fisher he was most comfortable in the outdoors. He had a keen sense of devotion for dogs, horses and peacocks.
Mr. Knight felt the pull of the West for many years, his favorite state being Montana. At the time of his death he was residing in Miles City, a town that embraced him. Mr. Knight was a very social person. He was always ready to meet someone else’s need. He had a special place in his heart for the elderly. He was a serious football fan, national and collage, the University of Michigan being his favorite.
His survivors include a half brother, Donald (Debra) Youngs of Virginia Beach, VA; an aunt, Dora (Knight) Plant of Houghton Lake, MI.; four nephews, Kenny, Gary (Katie), Todd and Jon (Monika) Youngs; two nieces, Michelle Nowland and Kim (David) Husketh; three great-nieces and great-nephews, Ryan Nowland, Jessica and Eric Husketh; and many cousins of the Adiska family.
In addition, he is survived by a great number of friends in Miles City, especially his best friend from high school, Ken Monier and his wife Penny.
Mr. Knight was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harold Youngs; and several aunts and uncles.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2009, 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.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City has been entrusted with the local arrangements. Ochalek-Stark Funeral Home of Michigan has been entrusted with the arrangements in Ypsilanti.

Jack E. Jeffries
Jack E. Jeffries of Redmond passed away Thursday, May 21, 2009, at home. He was 85.
Jack was born August 15, 1923, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Garry and Mary Jeffries. He was raised in Roundup, Montana and graduated from Custer
County High School in Miles City.
Following high school Jack entered the United States Army. While serving in the Army during WWII, Jack was part of the 821st Tank Destroyer Battalion. His battalion landed on the beaches of Normandy, France, two days after D-Day. While serving in the European Theater Jack was wounded, earning him a Purple Heart Medal.
While visiting in Bozeman, Montana, he met the love of his life, Betty Mae Benolken. After sending many funny letters to Betty during the war, Jack returned to Montana where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at the University of Montana. On September 6, 1947, Jack and Betty were married in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and settled together in Missoula, Montana.
At the age of 45 Jack went back to school at Montana State University where he earned his Master’s Degree in Education. With his degree in hand Jack went to work as a teacher in Kingman, Arizona, and later for his high school alma mater in Miles City. In 1972 Jack and Betty moved to Duluth, Minnesota, where he taught at the Duluth Area Vocational Technical Institute until his retirement in 1987, when they moved to Hemet, California.
In his leisure time Jack enjoyed reading, golf, following sports of all kinds, word puzzles, traveling and spending time with his family. He is remembered by his family and friends as a loving husband, father and grandfather; always gentle, caring and kind hearted; he had a great sense of humor along with a strong faith in the Lord Jesus. The consummate gentleman and provider, he is deeply missed.
Survivors include his loving wife, Betty of Redmond; children, Lynn (Rick) Allison of Great Falls, Montana, Curt (Alba) Jeffries of Bozeman, Montana, Jan (Randy) Geist of Kirkland, Washington, Kathy (Glenn) Miller of Monmouth, Maine, and Ken (Diane) Jeffries of Apple Valley, Minnesota; four grandchildren (Joel, Megan, Matthew and Melissa); and a great-granddaughter on the way.
Jack was preceded in death by his beloved great-grandson, Harvey.
The family suggests remembrances to the Group Health Foundation, 320 Westlake Avenue North, Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98109.
A graveside urn committal will be held 11a.m., Tuesday, August 11, 2009, at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, 18600 SE 240th Street, Kent. A celebration of Jack’s life will follow at 2 p.m. at Peters Creek, 14431 Redmond Way, Redmond.
Friends are invited to get directions, view photos and share memories in the family’s online guest book at www.flintofts.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Flintoft’s Funeral Home and Crematory.