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.

---

Updated Feb. 8

 

Patsy Lou Magnesen

Patsy Lou Magnesen, 80, of Ashville, Ohio, former Miles City resident, died peacefully in Dublin, Calif., with her daughters at her side on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010.
She was born to the late Frederick and Vera Mace on Aug. 10, 1929, in Broadus. She attended grade school in a one-room schoolhouse at Ranch Creek, riding to school on horseback. She went to Custer County High School in Miles City.
Mrs. Magnesen enjoyed working as a waitress until she retired in 1997. Her great sense of humor and ready smile won over many a grouchy customer. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts. Her many talents included painting, knitting, making and sharing her greeting cards.
She was a member of the United Christian Church in Miles City.
Her survivors include her children, Diana Magnesen of Sacramento, Calif., Janet Agnello of Dublin, Calif., Cheryl Magnesen of Alameda, Calif., and Kevin Magnesen of Ashville, Ohio; and her sisters, Peggy Jerrel (Raymond), Vera Carter (Charles), Katherine Flint (Doug) and Frances Dudley-Mason (Joel).
She was grandmother to five grandchildren and preceded in death by one grandson.
She was also preceded in death by two sons, Roy and Mark; and by sisters Maryann Irion and Jeanne Holst and brothers Max and Dan Mace.
A celebration and memorial of her life will be held in June at the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.

 

Patricia Ann Bremer

Mass of Christian Burial for Patricia Ann Bremer, 38, of Miles City, formerly of Baker, was Friday morning, Feb. 5, 2010, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Baker with the Rev. Father Thomas Tobin as celebrant.
Rite of Committal followed in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Baker.  She died Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
She was born on Monday, May 3, 1971, in Elkhorn, Wis., a daughter of Edwin Richard and Winifred “Winnie” Foot Bremer. “Patty,” as she was known by to her family and friends, lived with her parents and older sister, Jackie in Elkhorn until she was three. The Bremer family then moved to Baker where she grew up and attended Baker Schools, graduating from Baker High School in 1989.
In 1987, while on vacation with her mother to Minnesota, she became the victim of a freak accident in which a tire came off of another vehicle and came through the windshield of the car she was driving. From that day on her life as she knew it would forever be changed, as the tragic situation left her a quadriplegic. Prior to her accident, she played basketball, volleyball and was a member of the Spartanettes and school band. She went from being an active teenager to being in a wheel chair.
Following her graduation, she attended Montana State University in Bozeman for two years before transferring to the University of Texas in Arlington, Texas, where she was pursuing a degree in business marketing. She made her home in Texas until 2007, when she moved to Miles City where she had made her home.
While living in Miles City, she volunteered her time working in the Saint Vincent dePaul Thrift Store. She enjoyed singing karaoke, painting and loved to shoot pool. Her greatest love in life was for her family and two faithful canine companions, Jasmine and Chanty. She was never handicapped; she just had to make a few adjustments for every day life.
Her survivors include her mother, Winnie Harmel of Terry; her sister, Jackie Bremer of Miles City; a niece, Veronica Keech and a nephew, Richard Keech, both of Miles City; her aunts and uncle, Ester Bremer and Edith Crippen, both of Baker, Stella Peterson of Ortonville, Minn., Florence Bremer of Morris, Minn., and Donna and Vernon Palenski of Delevan, Wis.; and numerous cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father, Edwin Bremer; her step-father, Albert Harmel; and her grandparents, Harry and Dorothy Foot and Caroline and Frank Bremer.
Memorials may be made to the Bremer Family.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the care of Stevenson Funeral Home of Baker.

 

Chad M. Cochrun
Chad M. Cochrun, 40, of Ismay died early Sunday morning , Jan. 31, 2010, as a result of a one-car accident near Ismay.
Mr. Cochrun was born on Oct. 2, 1969, in Russell, Kan., the son of Dall and Sharon Gearhart Cochrun. He attended schools in Saratoga, Wyo., where he graduated from high school.
Following graduation, Mr. Cochrun worked for area ranches until moving to Ismay where he drove truck and worked with his father-in-law, Courtney Ayers, on the family ranch.
Mr. Cochrun and Nancy Ayers were married on July 10, 2005, in Mildred.
He loved hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, rodeoing and most of all being with people. His true love was being outdoors.
His survivors include his wife, Nancy Cochrun of Ismay; two sons, J.C. Ayers of Ismay and John Cochrun of Powell, Wyo.; and his parents, Dall and Sharon Cochrun of Ten Sleep, Wyo. He was preceded in death by one brother, Justin Cochrun.
Funeral Services will be Friday, Feb. 5, 2010, at 1 p.m. in the Ismay Community Church in Ismay.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City.

 

Vaughn W. Newland

Vaughn W. Newland, 89, died Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, at home in Jordan, as was his wish.
Mr. Newland was born Aug. 3, 1920, at Saco. He grew up on or near the Missouri River northeast of Jordan. When he and his sister were ready for high school the family moved into Jordan.
After graduation he worked for various ranchers, gas stations and the Agricultural Adjustment Agency. He moved to Seattle and went to work in the shipyards as World War II was on. When his draft notice showed up in the mail he chose to join the United States Naval Reserve without opening the notice.
He was trained as a pilot and flew PV-2’s in the Central Pacific. Their squadron was unofficially known as “The Feather Merchants.” Mr. Newland flew reconnaissance for subs amongst other things. At the end of the war he left the service as Lt. JG Vaughn W. Newland.
He returned home shortly after and began work for Clem Larson building dams, dikes and other earth moving jobs. Mr. Newland eventually bought Clem’s equipment and went to work for himself, a job he would do until he retired at age 75.
He and Florence “Tudy” Singer were married in February 1947. One daughter, Naomi, was born to this union. “Tudy” Newland died in October 1965.
Mr. Newland then married Norma Whitlock in September 1967. She had one daughter, Christine.
Mr. Newland’s survivors include his wife, Norma Newland of Jordan; daughter, Naomi (Vern) Pluhar and their children Dawn (John) Ripley of LaGrange, Ky., and their children Michael and Anna;  Pam (SJ) Cayer of Sidney and their children Laramie, Wyatt, Garrett and Casey; and Wayland (Mary) Pluhar and their children Maggie and Angus;  daughter Christine Keltner of Ismay and her children Larry (Stephanie) Keltner and their children Halle, Dayton and Rex;  Cheryl (Jeff) Morrison and their children Hiley, Deven and Caitlin; Burt (Monique) Keltner and their children Kael and Isis; and his sister, Monte Willman of Plevna.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, “Tudy;” and a son-in-law, Chris Keltner.
A graveside memorial service will be Friday, Feb. 5, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the Pioneer Cemetery in Jordan with a noon potluck lunch for conversation, memories and celebrating his life. Friends and family are all invited.
Should friends desire memorials may be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall in Jordan.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Jordan is in charge of the arrangements.

 

Francis William "Bill" Damm

Francis William “Bill” Damm, 86, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 29, 2010.
Mr. Damm was born in Miles City on March 9, 1923, the son of Edward H. and Mildred Braun Damm. He spent his early years on the family homestead on Pumpkin Creek. He went to country school at the Monte schoolhouse, attended Washington School and Custer County High School.
He was drafted into the United States Army on Nov. 15, 1944, and served in the 36th and 3rd Infantry Division during World War II in the European Theatre. While in the service he served as a military policemen.
He was honorably discharged on April 7, 1947. Following his discharge, he returned to Miles City and worked on the family ranch. He later worked at the Eagles T. Bar Club for three years. 
Mr. Damm met and courted a lovely young lady named Mary Ann Kosobud, and on Nov. 10, 1949, they were married in Miles City. From this union came their children Audrey, Doug, Joan and Kathy. Mr. and Mrs. Damm were married for 33 years before MaryAnn died in 1982.
In 1954, Mr. Damm went to work for Sheriff Newt Perkins as a Deputy Sheriff and served for 12 years. In 1965, Mr. Damm was elected sheriff of Custer County, a position he held until his retirement in 1985 at the age of 62. Mr. Damm was elected for five terms and was always grateful for the overwhelming support he received from the citizens of Custer County. 
While serving as sheriff, Mr. Damm was the secretary/treasurer for the Montana Sheriff Peace Officers Association. for 19 years. He attended numerous law enforcement academies including the FBI Academy in Quantico, Va. Mr. Damm also was responsible for the founding of the Custer County Search and Rescue Posse.
Upon Mr. Damm’s retirement from law enforcement, he focused his life on the outdoors and the passions he loved. He was instrumental in being a wagon train organizer and wagon master. He was a yearly participant in the Custer Battle reenactment until an accident slowed him down at the age of 79. The following year he was back in the saddle leading the Miles City Bucking Horse Parade.
Mr. Damm also enjoyed being an avid hunter and fisherman and helping his friends during the branding season.
He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, F.O.E., Elks and was a member of the Range Riders and VFW Post 1579. He was the longest card carrying member of the Eagles Club.
His survivors include his children: Audrey (Dan) Goyette of Great Falls, Doug (LuAnn) Damm of Cheboygan, MI, Joan (Chelsey) Smith Jr. of Litchfield Park, Ariz., and Kathy Damm Lawrence of  Surprise, Ariz.; two sisters: Ruby Mann of Billings and Ruth Iholts of Mapleton, Ore.; seven grandchildren, Mark Goyette, Melanie Goyette, Ryan Damm, Danielle Smith Kimel, Josh Damm, Chelcey Smith III and Hannah Lawrence;  a great-grandchild, Taylor Goyette; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Ann; and his brother, Robert Damm.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, from 5 to 8 p.m. with a sharing of memories at 7 p.m. in Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. 
Funeral services will be Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at 1 p.m. in the Assembly of God Church in Miles City. Interment will follow at the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City with full military honors provided by VFW Post 1579.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Range Riders Museum or the charity of one’s choice.

 

James Arthur "Jim" Sanderson

James Arthur “Jim” Sanderson, 58, of Miles City died Friday evening, Jan. 29. 2010, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare. 
Mr. Sanderson was born Feb. 17, 1951, in Pueblo, Colo., the son of James and Eleanor Helms Sanderson. He attended grade school and high school in Colorado.
In 1972, he married Patti Swanson in Hinsdale. In 1973, he moved to Hinsdale, where he farmed and ranched with his in-laws until 1978.
On June 2, 1979, he married Darlene Grasby in Glasgow. In 1981, they moved to Miles City where Mr. Sanderson built his wife’s dream home. He continued his carpentry business until the time of his death.
He was a member of the Miles City Hockey Association, Kippenberg Creek Kids, Aide Association for Lutherans, and A.A.U. Wrestling. His family was the most important thing to him, and he was their provider and their rock. Mr. Sanderson loved all sports, especially those in which his children were involved. Mr. Sanderson died doing what he loved, refereeing at Friday night’s hockey game.
He is survived by his wife, Darlene Sanderson of Miles City; his mother, Eleanor Patten of Delta, Colo.; three sons: Jim (Tami) Sanderson of Polson, Jess (LaDonna) Sanderson of Billings and Jase Sanderson of Miles City; one daughter, Jenna (Brandon) Janshen of Fargo, N.D.; two sisters:  Chris (John) Spehar of Rawlings, Wyo., and Carolyn (Don) Nelson of Kansas City, Kan.; and three grandchildren: Julia, Brayden and Jasmyn Sanderson.
Mr. Sanderson was preceded in death by his father, James; his first wife, Patti; a daughter, Marissa; a son, Jason; and a sister, Lori Weaver.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, from 4 to 6 p.m. in Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the Grace Bible Church. Private family burial will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Should friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the Miles City Hockey Association, the Kippenberg Creek Kids or to the charity of one’s choice.

 

Josephine "Jo" Bloxom

Josephine “Jo” Bloxom, 88, of Miles City died at the Holy Rosary Healthcare on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010.
She was born Aug. 29, 1921, in Brisbane, N.D., to Dennis and Mary Bonogofsky. She came from a large family with 11 brothers and sisters. Her surviving siblings include Mary Deichert, Ann Julson, Phyllis Volk and Blase Bonogofsky.
Mrs. Bloxom worked many jobs through her life mostly making sure her friends and family were well fed at home and at restaurants around town. She worked at the Holy Rosary Hospital for more than 15 years making sure patients were well fed and cared for. 
She and Leslie Bloxom were married Jan. 21, 1948, at St. Gertrude’s in Raleigh, N.D. Together they raised five children:  Mary Jo Bonogofsky, Donna (Gene) Gaug of Yardville, N.J., Ed Bloxom (special friend Julie Kaufman) of Miles City and Debbie Thibault and Tanna Martin of Helena. Mrs. Bloxom has 11 grandchildren: Gina Breath, Matthew Gaug, Lee Bloxom, Tracy Riola, Lynette Dudley, Joy Kroenke, Elizabeth Thibault, Kate Thibault, Aaron Martin, John Martin and Tim Martin; and 11 great-grandchildren: Maura, Dylan and Simon Breath, Alexis, Christopher and Josh Dudley, Mark Lopez, Chance and Dylan Riola, Dillon Martin and Lee’s daughter, Paige.
Preceding Mrs. Bloxom in death were daughters, Mary Jo Bonogofsky and Debbie Thibault as well as grandson, Joseph Gaug.
Funeral Services will be Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in Mrs. Blosom’s name to Ryan’squest.org for research for Duchene Muscular Dystrophy.

 

Vernice L. White

Vernice L. White, 102, of Miles City died Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010, at her home in Miles City.
She was born in Quinlan, Okla., on Oct. 10, 1907, the daughter of August John and Susan Elizabeth Ward Lahann. She grew up and attended school in Fargo, Okla., and then attended Alva College in Alva, Okla., where she received her teaching certificate.  She began teaching in Ellis County, Okla.
On April 20, 1927, she and Fred A. “Bill” White were married in Arnett, Okla. Following their marriage, they moved to Pampa, Texas, and then to Gage, Okla., where they farmed.  They later moved to Fargo, Okla., then to Philip, S.D., where she taught and later graduated from Black Hills State University.
While in South Dakota and Wyoming, she accumulated 46 years in her teaching career. The couple made their home in Aladdin, Wyo. where she enjoyed their home, gardening and their pets. She helped write the Crook County History Book, a subject she truly loved and continued taking history courses into her late 70s.
Following the death of her husband, she moved to Spearfish, South Dakota in 1985 and in 1995, she moved to Miles City where she had made her home since.
Her survivors include two daughters: Wildene Fortune of Miles City and Karen (Blayne) Pummel of Spearfish, S.D.; a daughter-in-law, Joann (Hugh) Hart of Apache Junction, Ariz.; 14 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred in 1985;  two sons, Phillip and Robert; two granddaughters, Denise Fortune and Shelly Longfox; a grandson, Todd Fortune; a grandson-in-law, Bill Pauley; a great-granddaughter, Abby Jo Michal; a brother; and four sisters.
Funeral services will be Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, at 10 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will be Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish, S.D.
Arrangements are entrusted to Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City and Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel of Spearfish, S.D.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Miles City Public Library or the charity of one’s choice.

 

Kevin Clarence Kuehn
Kevin Clarence Kuehn, 51, of Terry died Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, at the Prairie County Healthcare Center in Terry as a result of a ranching accident.
Mr. Kuehn was born in Miles City on Dec. 29, 1958, the son of Clarence and Violet Erna Neiffer Kuehn. He attended Grade School and graduated from Terry High School in 1977.  Following graduation, he attended Montana State University in Bozeman where he graduated with an Agriculture Economics and Business Degree in 1981.
Following his schooling, he moved back to work on the family ranch and also worked for Tim Rittal Accounting during the tax season.
Mr. Kuehn and Lisa Panasuk were married on July 24, 2004, in Terry.
Mr. Kuehn loved his cows, his faithful dog Amy, motorcycle trips with his family and his beloved John Deere Tractors, M & M’s, collecting coins and most of all teasing his 16 nieces and nephews.
His survivors include his wife, Lisa Kuehn of Terry; his parents, Clarence and Violet Kuehn of Terry; three sisters:  Georgiann Kae Kuehn of Hardin, DeAnn (Mark) Dige of Renton, Wash., and Kristi (Robert) Wade of Dallas, Texas; mother-in-law, Vivian Panasuk of Plevna; three sisters-in-law, Jennifer (Cliff) Tudor of Plevna, Amber (Donald) McDonald of Jordan and Amy McClary of Kennewick, Wash.; and his nieces and nephews, Kyle, Kaitlyn, Logan, Brynn, Courtney, Chloe, Sophie, Sara, Trevor, Alex, Grace, Duncan, Maggie, Kelsey, Katie and Emma.
Funeral services will be Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the Wesleyan Church in Terry. Interment will follow in the Prairie County Cemetery in Terry.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Improvement Fund for the Prairie County Fairgrounds and the Trinity Lutheran Church Handicap Access Fund.
 

Verdie Nadine Armstrong McCallum
In the early morning hours of Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, Verdie Nadine Armstrong McCallum, loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother, died one month short of her 86th birthday following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Mrs. McCallum was born in Grand Junction, Colo., to John and Hazel Armstrong. She grew up in the San Francisco area and proudly worked in architectural planning at the Alameda Navel Shipyard during World War II. There she met the love of her life, George McCallum, at a USO dance. They continued dancing through the next 63 years and along the way brought into this world four daughters — Janice, Anita, Glenda and Deborah.
Mr. and Mrs. McCallum made their home in western Montana, settling in Sanders County for 46 years. During those years, they raised cattle and sheep, owned and operated McCallum Realty and Plains Cable Television and pursued various aspects of the Christmas tree business. Mrs. McCallum was the business manager for these family businesses and her excellent organizational skills and eye for detail were a large part of the success she and her husband enjoyed.
During Legislative Sessions when Mr. McCallum served in the Senate, Mrs. McCallum kept the ranch going and along the way befriended many calves and lambs. Upon retirement, Mr. and Mrs. McCallum made their home in Helena from 1993 to 2003 and then settled in Terry for their final years.
Mrs. McCallum was a petite, gentle person who epitomized the term ‘lady’ in every way. Her loving, caring manner made everyone she met feel special. She always put everyone’s needs before her own and wanted to be sure everyone was taken care of. You could never go to her house without having a cup of coffee and some of her home-baked cookies and cinnamon rolls.
More than anything else, Mrs. McCallum will forever be remembered as the best Mother in the world to her daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
She was active in her community and loved crafts, sewing, gardening and canning. Mrs. McCallum was a life-time member of Ideal, Chapter 41, Eastern Star, Plains. 
Mrs. McCallum is survived by her sister, Clara Moore of Kingman, Ariz.; daughters, Janice Jennings of Terry, Anita Oppedahl (Jim) of Helena, Glenda Ueland (Chris) of Terry and Deborah Swingley (Ken) of Helena; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John Armstrong and Hazel Armstrong Lantz; by seven siblings; and by her husband, George Walter McCallum. 
Funeral services will be Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, at 1 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry. Interment will be in Plains in the spring of 2010.
Arrangements are under the care of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Miles City.

 

Gordon Kenneth Okerman

On Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, Gordon Kenneth Okerman peacefully departed this life.
Mr. Okerman was born July 3, 1924, in Billings.
He was preceded in death by his parents and the love of his life, his wife, Kay Okerman.
Mr. Okerman is survived by his three children, Jeff, Mike and Andrea, and his brother, John, and their children and spouses.
He is also survived by his best friend of many years, Summerfield. His caregiver, Mary Catherine “Bob” Dunphy was a god send. He loved them all as well as the Marines and his beloved grizzlies.
Everyone who knew Dad will not be surprised that he did not want a funeral or memorial service. We know he is at peace in his reunion with Mom who he has dearly missed for 20 years.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the ROCKS After School Enrichment Program, P.O. Box 972, Miles City, MT  59349.

 

James "Bud" Schnee

James “Bud” Schnee, 72, of Miles City died Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at his home in Miles City.
Mr. Schnee was born in Conrad on July 30, 1937, the son of David and Mary Seymour Schnee. He grew up and attended grade school and high school in Cut Bank. After school he joined the Navy in 1955 and served until his honorable discharge in 1958. After the Navy he moved to Anaheim, Calif., for a short period of time until he eventually moved back to the Cut Bank area, and shortly after moved to Belle Creek where he worked the oil fields.
On Jan. 12, 1970, he and Beverley McLean were married in Miles City. After spending a short period of time living in Cut Bank they moved back to Miles City in 1972, where he continued to make his home. While living in Miles City he worked for United Beverage, Portable Pavers and Prince Inc. He continued working until he had to retire in 1997 due to ill health.
Mr. Schnee enjoyed spending time with his good friend Harold Gierke restoring cars, where he would watch and occasionally lend a hand when needed. He was also an avid Nascar watcher and was up-to-date on all the drivers. Mr. Schnee truly loved his annual trip down to the Barrett Jackson car show in Scottsdale, Ariz., and spending time with all his friends and family.
His survivors include his son, Mitch Schnee of Fishtail; his daughter, Jackie Schnee of Miles City; his former wife, Beverley (Joe) McNurlin of Miles City; a brother, Robley (Fern) Schnee of Temecula, Calif.; his three grandchildren: Kelsey, Courtney and Hailey Fenner; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jerry and Clinton Schnee; and a sister, Ruth Ann Schnee.
Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at 2:30 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1579.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to establish a college fund for his grandchildren.

 

Warren Charles Eastin

Warren Charles Eastin, 86, of Miles City, died Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at his home.
Mr. Eastin was born March 13, 1923, in Vernon, Colo., to James and Nancy Eastin. He was the sixth of 10 children.
In 1942, Mr. Eastin and Beulah Franklin were married in Rexburg Idaho. His ventures with Safeway Food Stores carried him from Billings to Denver before settling in Miles City in 1958. For the next 30-plus years Mr. Eastin was employed with Miles and Ulmer Hardware, where he formed friendships that lasted a life time. Mr. and Mrs. Eastin were blessed with three children Myra (Vonnie), Russel and Jay.
Mr. Eastin could often be seen riding his scooter down the middle of the street headed to Albertsons for his morning coffee or shopping at St. V’s. He liked to collect clocks, tools, butterflies and other small treasures. He enjoyed adding his personal touch to wind chimes, building wind mills from scratch and creating other “inventions.” Mr. Eastin spent his quality time getting lost in his garage and tinkering with his prized 1958 Chevy Pickup.
His survivors include his daughter, Myra Applehans of Denver, Colo.; his sons, Russel (Emily) Eastin of Miles City and Jay (Chris) Eastin of Newberg, Ore.; and his brother, Wayne of Denver, Colo.
He is also survived by his grandchildren, Rick (Annette) Applehans, Lori (Bob) Lucero and Cindy (Steven) Conwell, all of Denver, Vicki (Scott) McBride and Lisa Malloy of Miles City, Nick Eastin and Jennifer Eastin of Colstrip, and Brian (Angela) Eastin of Beaverton, Ore. He is also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Mr. Eastin was preceded in death by his wife, Beulah; his parents, Nancy and James Eastin; four brothers, Walter, Clyde, Dean and Donald; four sisters, Marie, Hazel, Margie and Vera; a son-in-law, Robert Applehans; and his beloved friend, Angie Bonogofsky.
The family will receive friends Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.   Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will be at a later date in the Valley View Cemetery in Broadus.

 

Mary Elizabeth Warford Stabler

Mary Elizabeth Warford Stabler, 81, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, at Holy Rosary Healthcare.
She was born July 1, 1928, in Bell Creek, the daughter of Roger and Lewie Faye Thompson Warford. She received her elementary education in Broadus and high school and college in Miles City.
In 1946, she and Leonard Bickle were married. To this union one son was born, Mike. Mr. Bickle died in 1970.
She and Hermann Stabler were married in 1971. To this union a daughter, Jennifer, was born. Later Mary and Herman Stabler were married in the Idaho Falls Temple. Mr. Stabler died Jan. 14, 2001.
Mrs. Stabler worked a variety of jobs during her life, fencing, road construction, teaching, nursing and waitressing. She loved to hunt for rocks, fossils and treasures. She was a prize-winning potter. Mrs. Stabler loved to be around people and enjoyed having coffee at Albertsons and lunch at the Six Hundred Café. She never knew a stranger. She was a member of AA and very proud of her sobriety. Mrs. Stabler also was very proud of her work with the Rural Fire Department.
Her survivors include her son, Mike (Deeon) Bickle of Miles City; daughter, Jennifer (Sean) Klatte of Broadview; grandchildren, Randy, Matthew and Scott Bickle of Miles City, and Bryson Stabler, Mackade and Addison Klatte of Broadview; great -grandchildren Rychele and Kadan Bickle of Miles City, and Autumn Bickle of Sheppard; sisters, Jenn Warford of Pompey, Jo Potter of Lolo and Dean Kelly of Worland Wy.; sister-in-law Thelma Rambo of Missoula; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Hugh, Preston, Oris, Tommy and James.
Funeral services will be Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, at 1 p.m. in the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.
Per Mrs. Stabler’s request, in lieu of flowers anyone wishing may make a donation to the charity of his or her choice.

 

Wayne "Cowboy" Lesofski

Wayne “Cowboy” Lesofski, 58, died in Billings on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010, ending a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Mr. Lesofski was born in Great Falls to Speed and Agnes Lesofski on Nov. 12, 1951. He lived in Wolf Creek until moving to Helena in 1962. Mr. Lesofski attended grade school at Wolf Creek elementary and St. Mary’s Catholic School in Helena.  He also attended Central and Helena High School. After graduating he traveled to Denver, Colo., to attend electronics school.
He lived in several locations throughout Montana before finding his home in Miles City where he was known to most as “Cowboy.” One of Mr. Lesofski’s favorite sayings was, “I’m not a cowboy, I’m thee COWBOY.”
He had a very special love for the Yellowstone and all it had to offer. Mr. Lesofski loved to camp, fish and canoe. He also loved reading westerns, playing horseshoes, shooting pool and his favorite was an ice cold beer with family and friends. He worked most of his life in the construction field, focusing on landscaping. In the end he loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest.
Survivors include his daughter, Danielle of Ephrata, Wash.; (Fiancée) Cindy Thompson and son, Matt of Miles City;  his mother, Agnes Lesofski of Helena; his brothers, Roger Lesofski of Great Falls, David Lesofski of Los Angeles, Calif., and John and Janet Lesofski of White Sulphur Springs;  sisters, Karen and Russ Schultz of Riverside, Calif., Nancy Wolf of Seattle, Wash., Beth and Tom Lewis of Spokane Wash., Deanna and Brad Ness of Fargo, N.D.; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family throughout Montana.
Mr. Lesofski was preceded in death by his father, Speed Lesofski; and nephew, James Wolf.
The family will receive friends Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, in Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, at 11 a.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.

Donald "Mac" McDowell

Donald “Mac” McDowell, 88, of Miles City died quietly Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at home with family members at his side. 
Mr. McDowell was born on his father’s homestead on the banks of Box Elder Creek on Nov. 28, 1921, the son of Ellis “Young Tex” and Nina Maude Elliott McDowell at Pineile near Alzada, one of four children. The family moved to Miles City in 1928 where they had a small band of sheep near Signal Butte. They later moved into town and then to the fairgrounds where “Tex” was custodian during the period when war prisoners were held there. While attending schools in Miles City graduating from Custer County High School, Don and his friends explored nearly every gumbo butte surrounding the city. He enjoyed telling whoever would listen about the colorful people who lived in that era, many stories confirmed by reading old issues of the Miles City Star.
In 1942 he enlisted in the Air Force Enlisted Reserve and later was inducted into the Army. He attended remote control turret school for B-29s at Lowry Field, Colorado.  Later he was at Wendover, Utah, where he was assigned as a mechanic to the Army Air Corps whose task was to remove the turrets from the B-29 bombers prior to the bombing of Japan. Mr. McDowell was a member of the famous 509th composite group and personally knew the crew of the Enola Gay and Bockscar, the two planes of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. One of his claims to fame was that he was chastised by Sweeny, the pilot of Bockscar, for being too rough with the skin of his airplane, saying “I gotta fly this SOB.”
While working road construction, he met and married Eileen Moser in McLaughlin, S.D., bringing her back to Miles City where they had two children. He loved heavy equipment and worked various road jobs around the state. Later on he was a brakeman and conductor for the Milwaukee Railroad and was proud to have been on the last train to stop in Miles City when the Milwaukee went out of service.
Mr. McDowell was always building new or remodeling a home or garage back when a carpenter’s tools would fit into one wooden tool box. He built many reservoirs in southeastern Montana and was still repairing some in his eighties even though he had to use a ladder to get up on the equipment. He also spent time covering the local landfill and coined the phrase“backcyling,” which usually lit in his back yard. 
During the 1960s Mr. and Mrs. McDowell were the sponsors of the Harmony Hangout. During that time the Hangout building (now Senior Citizens Drop-In Center) doubled in size two different times with donated labor from Mr. McDowell and “the kids.”
Mr. McDowell had a gift when it came to writing and felt a great need to share his thoughts and ideas in the letters to the editor of the local newspapers. Whenever he mailed a letter, his return address usually included “Lions-72; Christians-0.” Having coffee with friends at the 600 was an important part of his week as well as playing cards and drinking out of the short glasses.
In addition to his first wife, Eileen of Miles City, survivors include his son, David of Nome, Alaska; daughter, Beverly (Rick) Harris of Miles City; grandson, Michael Harris of Bozeman; granddaughter, Cassandra Harris of Loveland, Colo.; a great-granddaughter, Lexi of Bozeman; and his sister, Barbara Weaver Pelton of California.
He was preceded in death by his younger brother, David McDowell; a sister, Mary Lou McDowell; and a brother, Joe McDowell of Broadus.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 19, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will be at a later date.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Montana History Room of the Miles City Public Library.

 

Barbara L. Killen

Barbara L. Killen, 70, of Miles City, died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at the Billings Clinic.
She was born March 24, 1939, the only child of Samuel and Dorothy McMillan Knobf. She died on January 16, 2010 after a long and brave fight with COPD, saying until the end she wasn’t ready to go but she wasn’t afraid to die as she knew there was a better place waiting for her. She was surrounded by the love of her family and good friends throughout the last weeks of her life, and treasured the many cards, calls and visits she received during that time.
She grew up in the Marmarth, N.D., area, moving to Miles City to attend high school. After graduation she moved to Helena for work, there meeting her first husband Thomas Keesee. As a military wife she spent three years in Germany where her two children, David and Donna, were born.
She moved back to Miles City in 1968 with her children and met the love of her life, Patrick Killen. They were married on Dec. 12, 1968.  They had just celebrated 41 years of marriage.
Mrs. Killen enjoyed the travels she and Mr. Killen were able to take after retirement to see relatives and friends throughout the country. 
She was active in the Presbyterian Church of Miles City, a place she found very comforting after the death of her mother in 1994. She also was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.  She was known for her outgoing personality, her generosity, thriftiness, honesty and hard work.
Her survivors include her husband, Patrick; her son, David (Joni) Keesee of Murray, Ky.; her daughter, Donna (Bill) Ronning of Miles City; a step-daughter, Shelley Killen of Bismarck, N.D.; three grandchildren: Charity Jones of Murray, Ky. and Matthew (Amy) and McAlistair Ronning of Miles City; and three great-grandchildren, Zaydan, Zaylie and Jenna. She also is survived by many special cousins on the Ridgway, Duffield and Knobf side.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her uncles, Robert Knobf, Leo Knobf, Bruce Ridgway, Clinton Ridgway and Merritt Duffield; and one aunt, May Rutz.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010, from 5 to 7 p.m. with an Order of the Eastern Star service to be held at 6:30 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.
Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, Custer County Food Bank or the ROCKS program.

 

Patrick Thomas "Spud" Cremer
Patrick Thomas “Spud” Cremer died Tuesday, Jan., 12, 2010, in the loving care of his family after a gallant and steadfast battle with cancer.
Mr. Cremer was born the sixth of eight children to Cornelius and Katherine (Brody) Cremer on June 7, 1929, in Big Timber. He first attended the Pine Hills country school on Tony Creek and went on to complete high school at the Holy Rosary Catholic School in Bozeman in 1949.
He wanted to cowboy since he was old enough to swing a rope, so after high school he headed to the Crow Reservation where there were still some big outfits. He hired on at the Spear-O, the Padlock and Tschirgi’s famed Antler Ranch to name a few.
This is also where he met and married the cow boss’s daughter, Alta Roberts. Mr. and Mrs. Cremer had three daughters together; Maureen, Kelly and Pat.
In 1964, Mr. and Mrs. Cremer and the girls went from the Big Horn to the Big Dry to cowboy for the parents of his now long-time friend and revered cowboy, Bill Brown, Jr. Mr. Cremer spent the next 20-some years in the Jordan area where he cowboyed, was a state brand inspector and was the infamous sheriff of Garfield County for 14 of those years. To his credit, Mr. Cremer was able to enforce the basic spirit of the law while remaining the area’s most respected peace officer. Jordan also is where Mr. Cremer was able to continue to help everyone brand and ship, pursue team roping and train cutting horses with some very extraordinary people.
During his stay at Jordan, Mr. Cremer was remarried to Margaret Brown Rhodes where his fourth daughter, Kathy was born in 1972. Mr. Cremer helped raise Kathy, Kim and Jacque until 1986 when he, his wife and Kathy moved back to Big Timber to help manage his parents’ ranch at Melville. During this time Mr. Cremer also purchased the Cort Bar, which he operated until 1995. As always, Mr. Cremer garnered the friendship and devotion of the best of people throughout the Sweetgrass and continued to help cowboy for his friends and neighbors.
In 2004, Mr. Cremer left the family ranch to join his daughter, Pat and Dave Morton at their ranches outside of Broadview and Roundup where he yet again gathered a huge following of comrades. Mr. Cremer continued to drag calves, wean and ship for friends and neighbors right up until his passing. Late 2008, at the spry age of 79, Mr. Cremer bought his first and last place on West Parrott Creek outside of Roundup. He was very proud of this spectacular cutting horse facility where he certainly envisioned the culmination of dreams past but not lost.
Mr. Cremer was very possibly the last of this dying breed, each relationship he had was personal and treasured. His friendships spanned many generations and transcended all social and economic status. You entered Mr. Cremer’s life with a clean slate and everyone deserved a second chance. He was absolutely fearless in all things and willingly shared that strength where needed.
His survivors include sisters, Jo Ann (John) Gee of Stanford and Jane Leptich of Seattle; daughters, Maureen (Dale) Schaak of St. Xavier, Pat Cremer (Dave Morton) of Broadview, Kathy Cremer and Jacque (Bob) Gregg of Jordan; son-in-law, Tracy Grow of Glendive; many loving nieces, nephews and grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
Mr. Cremer was preceded in death by his parents, Corny and Kate Cremer; brothers Bubby, Buzzy, Bill and John Cremer; sister, Mary Bowling; son, Kim Rhodes; and daughter Kelly Cremer Grow.
Visitation and family receiving friends will be Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Broadview Community Center in Broadview.
A Funeral Service will be Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at 1 p.m. in the Broadview School Gym. 
Interment will be at 11 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, in the Mountain View Cemetery in Big Timber.
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.

 

Kealoha Curnan

Word has been received of the death of Kealoha Curnan of Kailua, Kona, Hawaii, former Miles City resident. She died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010. She was the wife of Special Agent Daniel Curnan. Her survivors include her children, Ed of Miles City and Chris, Martin, Daniel, Keikilani, Pilialoha and Kealoha, all of Hawaii. Services will be Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, in Hawaii. Burial will be in Punchbowl National Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii. Condolences may be sent to Keikilani Curnan, 731258-A Nalu Way, Kailua, Kona, HI 96740.

 

Martin J. "Marty" Lemelin
Martin J. “Marty” Lemelin, 81, of Miles City died at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Exeter, N.H., on Jan. 12, 1929, the son of Peter A. Lemelin and Mabel Fortier Lemelin. After his mother’s death, he was raised in Monson, Mass., by his aunt and uncle Couture.
After graduating from Monson High School as valedictorian, he entered the United States Army Air Corps, which later became the United States Air Force. He enlisted at the age of 18, spending seven years and receiving an honorable discharge. Upon his discharge, he was hired by Philco-Ford in the electronics field and traveled to several states and countries.
He attended classes at Temple University in Philadelphia and Kessler Air Force Base in Mississippi and became an instructor in electronics. He also attended Colorado State University and graduated from Northern Montana University in Havre with a degree in education.
In 1970 he began a new career as the electronics instructor at Miles Community College. He retired in 1994. His students and education were his passion for many years.
Mr. Lemelin was a crusader for the elderly and those less fortunate. He spent many hours of his retirement years in volunteer activities. Some of his most enjoyed experiences were at Sacred Heart School.
His passions included his grandchildren, travel and of course, his love for the Boston Red Sox.
His survivors include his wife, Grace A. Lemelin, and their children, Sandra (Steven Mike) of Fort Collins, Colo., Peter (Dawna) of Miles City and Misty Carlson (daughter-in-law) of Miles City. 
Also surviving are his grandchildren: Jordan, Nicole, David, Sabrina and Christopher; and many great friends.
He was preceded in death by his son, Martin Lemelin Jr.
Services in celebration of Mr. Lemelin’s life include visitation at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City on Monday, January 18, 2010, with family receiving friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010, at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery with full military honors provided by Malstrom Air Force Base and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1579. A luncheon will follow at the VFW Hall.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Joel Robert Siebert
GLENDIVE, MONTANA: Joel Robert Siebert, age 49, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at the Glendive Medical Center in Glendive. Visitation will be held from 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 17, 2010 and 9:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Monday, January 18, 2010 in the Chapel of the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Monday, January 18, 2010 at the Assembly of God Church in Glendive with Pastor Brad Kelly officiating. Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Joel was born on November 4, 1960 in Jamestown, North Dakota. While still very young Joel moved with his family to Glendive where he was raised and educated attending Dawson County High School. After high school he went to work for the oil fields as a roughneck and a seismographer. A physical impairment required Joel to quit this line of work in the early 1980’s. He then worked various jobs in different locations.
While in his late teen’s Joel’s marriage ended in divorce. To that union a daughter Brandy was born. Late in life he met and married Carol Persinger who was to become the love of his life.
Joel enjoyed crawdad fishing, cooking and restoring old furniture. His family will always remember his wit and practical jokes.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his wife Carol.
Survivors include his parents, Sharon Correll, David Correll of Glendive; one daughter, Brandy Siebert, of Tulsa, Oklahoma; one brother, Rusty (Laurie) Siebert, of Eagle River, Wisconsin; six sisters, Ronni (Bob) Whiteford of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Pepper (Clark) McRae of Miles City, Montana, Genia (Randy) Burris of Missoula, Montana, Allison (Al) Schlepp of Billings, Montana, Sonia (Ken) Stockwell of Glendive and Tonia (Dale) Dixon of Napa, Idaho and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com .

 

Margaret JoAnn "Peggy" Kocher

Margaret JoAnn “Peggy” Kocher, 62, of Miles City died at her home on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, of an apparent heart attack.
She was born on Dec. 13, 1947, in Miles City, the daughter of Edward and Gertrude Wacker May. She attended grade schools in Ismay and in Miles City, graduating from Custer County High School.
She worked for her parents at the Ten Spot Cafe and the May Basket Cafe through school and until her marriage to Dale Kocher in Miles City in December 1969. In 1971 they moved to Harlem where Mrs. Kocher worked for Kermit Rasmussen at The Hub Western Wear Clothing Store, which she and her husband later owned and operated.
After her husband died in 1983, Mrs. Kocher remained in Harlem until the mid -1990s. She then moved back to Miles City to be near her father. After returning to Miles City, she worked at Blue Rock Distributing and for the Veterans’ Administration.
Mrs. Kocher enjoyed doing many things, some of which were camping, hunting and fishing, swimming, needlework, baking, making cookies and candy to share with family and friends. She always looked forward to family and holiday gatherings. She had great neighbors and friends and had a wonderful time working on the All 60s Reunion with them.
Her survivors include her step-daughter, DeAnn Troung and her three step-granddaughters, Star, Tori and April of Vancouver, Wash.; her aunt Marian Pinkham of Miles City, uncle and aunt Harold (Leona) Hougardy of Santa Maria, Calif., aunt Hilda Stein of Klamath Falls, Ore., uncle Albert Wacker of Red Bluff, Calif., and aunt Betty Monforton of Bozeman; her cousins, Pam (Don) Griffin of Ismay, Doreen Richardson and fiancée Johnny Womack of Midland, Texas, Rod (Young) Pinkham of Las Vegas, N.Y., Jim (Carol) Lucas, Fred (Gwen) Wacker of Miles City and many, many more cousins.
She is preceded in death by her husband; her mother; her father; and her brother, Eddy.
The family will receive friends Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be sent to the charity of one’s choice.

 

Edith MacDonald
Edith MacDonald, 92, of Jordan died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, at the Garfield County Nursing Home.
She was the first daughter of nine children born to Edwin and Delilah Stockton Stinebaugh and grew up on the family ranch north of Jordan. She attended school at the North Star country school, where some years school was conducted during the summer months. Mrs. MacDonald then attended Garfield County High School in Jordan. During this time, she stayed with the Ewys and worked for her room and board as she did not want to burden her family with extra expense, as money was extremely tight during this time.
After graduating from school in 1936 she moved to Great Falls and worked her way through Great Falls Commercial College. She then went to Miles City where she was employed as a clerk in the Custer County Courthouse. 
Fate arrived when she caught a ride to Jordan with the mail carrier, Archie C. MacDonald. They were united in marriage on Nov. 6, 1943. Mr. and Mrs. MacDonald ranched, making their home on the family ranch west of Jordan. They had two children, Catherine, who died shortly after birth in September of 1945 and Joan who was born on Aug. 23, 1947, and died Nov. 15, 1972.
Mrs. MacDonald was always busy. In the winter months she could be found driving the pickup for Mr. MacDonald while he was feeding the sheep, or packing water to any livestock that was in the corral. She was an excellent cook who prepared many meals for family, friends and neighbors. She received many ribbons for the baked goods she prepared and entered in the county fair.
Spring brought gardening, which was her passion. If she wasn’t planting flowers in her yard or in front of the church, she was in her greenhouse starting flowers for someone else. Mrs. MacDonald started selling plants and at one point had to expand her greenhouse to accommodate everyone.
In 1994, Mrs. MacDonald purchased a home and moved to Jordan. There she could be found planting roses and strawberries, which she shared with her neighbors and friends, or having coffee or lunch with her lifelong friends at the café.
Later, due to health reasons, Mrs. MacDonald went to live at the Garfield County Nursing Home in Jordan. She called this her home and was very fond of the nurses who cared for her.
Mrs. MacDonald was a very active member in St. John’s Catholic Church. She helped clean, paint or whatever needed to be done. She loved to invite the priest or sisters to her home and prepared meals for them. She also was active in the Altar Society and served as the secretary/treasurer for many years. She also helped organize the annual harvest dinner for many years.
Mrs. MacDonald is survived by three sisters, Shirley (Jack) Gruber of Santa Maria, Calif., Nellie Johnson of Jordan and Bertha Langemo of Miles City; one brother, Roy (Freda) Stinebaugh of Jordan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Archie; her daughters, Catherine and Joan; three brothers, Lloyd, Burrell and Frank Stinebaugh; and one sister, Ester Hedstrom.
A Vigil service will be Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, at 6 p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Jordan. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at 11 a.m. in St. John’s Catholic Church in Jordan. Interment will follow in the Pioneer Cemetery in Jordan.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

Lila Winifred Stewart
Lila Winifred Stewart, age 76, passed away Monday, January 11, 2010, in Bismarck, ND with her loving children at her bedside.
Lila was born on the family farm on July 10, 1933, in Cartwright, ND to the parents of William and Grace Lassey. She attended country school taught by her mother and later graduated from high school in Fairview, ND in 1951.
She married James Stewart on July 10, 1952 in Cartwright, ND. They were married for twenty-five years and had five children. She resided in Williston, ND until her retirement. Lila moved to Miles City to be closer to her two oldest daughters. In 2002, she moved to Bismarck, ND, where her three youngest children lived.
Lila’s passion in life was spending time with all her family. She was an avid card player and enjoyed Sunday afternoons playing rummy with her son. She loved gardening and also loved going to rummage sales. Nothing thrilled her more than a good bargain.
Lila’s survivors include her five children, Linda (Dallas) Wildman, Miles City, MT. Charlene (Terry) Gunther, Billings, MT, Karen (Tracy) Whitney, Bismarck, ND, Cindy (Don) Klym, Bismarck, ND; Tim Stewart, Mandan, ND. She is also survived by her father, William Lassey, age 96, of Cartwright, ND, one brother, William Lassey (Marie) of Tucson, AZ., 2 sisters, Marilyn (Issy) Sackman, Sidney, MT; Mavis (Ron) Berry, Cartwright, ND. Lila had 9 grandchildren; Julie (Tom) Billig, Huntsville, AL; Jodi (Ted) Herzog, Miles City, MT; Jenny (Brad) Malloy, Livingston, MT; Michelle (Gary) Hirsch, Miles City, MT; Ryan Gunther, Miles City, MT; Shawn (Jamie) Whitney, Bismarck, ND; Nick Whitney, Bismarck, ND; Melissa Whitney, Bismarck, ND, Christopher, Whitney, Sarah, and Amanda Klym, Bismarck, ND. She is also survived by 14 great grandchildren.
Lila is preceded in death by her mother, Grace Lassey.
Funeral services will be held at the St. Michel’s Episcopal Church in Cartwright, ND, on Saturday, January 16, 2010, at 11:00 AM., MST. Visitation will begin on Friday, January 15, 2010 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Condolences may be made to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

Robin Gerber

Robin Gerber, 48, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at her home in Miles City from a heart condition.
She was born Jan. 31, 1961 in Miles City, the youngest of four children of David Nels and Phyllis Mulkey Gerber. She attended schools in Miles City and graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1979. She continued her education at Miles Community College, Montana State University-Bozeman and the University of Montana in Missoula where she went on to earn her master’s degree. 
In the interest of preserving the culture of southeastern Montana, she wrote numerous grants. She founded a genealogical library at the Ursuline Convent. She served as a commissioner on the Miles City Preservation Commission. In 1999 she instituted the annual Ghost Tour, researching, writing scripts and recruiting “ghosts” to portray Miles City’s colorful history, and continued producing the tour until 2006. Recently, she had become active in the proposed restoration of the Northern Pacific Depot.
She had taught social sciences and humanities classes full time at Miles Community College since 1997. In addition to her teaching duties, she was very active in student clubs, activities, and educational conferences. She served as a faculty advisor for the Multicultural Club and developed a theater workshop class, authoring many of the plays that her students performed.
Ms. Gerber distinguished herself as both an esteemed educator and a highly respected colleague. She was chosen as the 2006 Montana State Professor of the Year by the United States Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). This prestigious award recognizes professors for their influence on teaching and their outstanding commitment to undergraduate students.
Ms. Gerber was a prolific writer. Her work included a children’s history of Miles City, a textbook on Montana’s Native American tribes, children’s fiction, mystery novels, and numerous plays. At the time of her death, she was serving as president of the Barn Players, Inc. theater group and was preparing rehearsals of her children’s play “The Pied Piper.”
She gave generously of her time and talent to other local organizations, including the Miles City Woman’s Club and the Miles City Public Library Board (chairperson).
Those who knew Ms. Gerber will remember her for her abiding love of animals, especially her three “kids,” Sadie, Sophie and Ed; for her quirky sense of humor; and for her unfailing kindness to friends in need. Her students and colleagues will remember her as a gifted instructor with a flair for the dramatic. The community will remember her dedication to preserving southeastern Montana’s culture and heritage.
Ms. Gerber leaves behind two brothers, Clayton Cook of Columbus, Ohio, and Dale Gerber of Fort Benton; a sister, Nyla (Dick) Morris of Shepherd; her nephew, Daniel Newby and his two sons, Daniel and Patrick of Billings; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. 
She was preceded in death by her mother in 1996 and her father in 2004.
Funeral Services will be Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at 1 p.m. at Miles Community College, room 106. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials may be made in Ms. Gerber’s name to Miles Community College, East Main Animal Clinic to help pay for the cost of stray animals or the Convent Keepers/Ursuline Convent.

 

Debbie Lee Carlson

 Debbie Lee Carlson, 49, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at the Advanced Care Hospital of Montana in Billings after a long battle from a second brain injury from a fall on November 4, 2009.
She was born in Miles City on June 26, 1960, the youngest child of Edith Chase Carlson. She joined six brothers and sisters. At a very early age she played music, strumming her bottle. She picked up the guitar and started playing music with her mother and Speed Melville. Later she had a band called The Midnight Riders.
She went to grade school in Miles City and graduated from Custer County District High School. In 1980, she survived a very bad car wreck. She and her mother had lived together ever since.
A volunteer at the VA Hospital, she later volunteered at Holy Rosary Hospital where she made a lot of friends. She was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.
She loved stuffed animals, especially monkeys and apes. In addition, she loved to play the guitar with her nephew Norman and also cribbage. She loved to play solitary on her computer, liked fishing if someone else baited the hook and liked shooting targets with Ray and Norman.
Her survivors include her devoted mother, Edith Ebert of Miles City; her brothers and sisters:  Farion (Linda) Carlson of Miles City, Maxine (Alfred) Leatherberry of Miles City, Dorene Robertson of Billings, Carl Carlson of Helena, Robin (Ray) Leatherberry of Volborg and Claude (Cheryl) Carlson of Billings; her very dear friend, Diane Reyff; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, at 10 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Relay for Life.

 

Roy Carrico

Roy Carrico, 81, longtime resident of Powder River County, died Friday, Jan. 1, 2010, in Tuscan, Ariz., of natural causes. 
Mr. Carrico was born on Feb. 16, 1928, in Fairbury, Neb., the son of Clarance H. and Nina B. Gano Carrico.
He spent his life working on several ranches and farms as well as over-the-road trucking. He served a term in the United States Navy and toured in Okinawa, Japan.  He lived most of his life in New Mexico where he met Betsy Williams in 1992 and later moved to her family’s ranch near Broadus.
Music was Mr. Carrico’s true passion in life and he never passed up an opportunity to play his fiddle, piano or just take a whirl around the dance floor.
He enjoyed playing his music regularly at the Powder River Historical Museum, Powder River Manor, Senior Citizen’s Center and many local dances. He always wanted to help out on the ranch and enthusiastically returned each year to haul hay bales with his loyal companion, Lucy, “that little black dog” right by his side.
He could often be found at the museum playing music, at the local truck-stop having coffee with friends or at the local library reading a newspaper. He always had time to visit with anyone who would lend an ear.  
He is survived by one sister, Sandra O’Dell; three sons, Steve, Ed and David; one daughter, Carrie Ross; and several grandchildren. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Aartje; and sweetheart, Betsy Williams. 
Funeral services will be Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at 2 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus.  Interment will follow in the Valley View Cemetery.  Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Powder River Historical Museum in Broadus.

 

Garry Eugene Wallace

Garry Eugene Wallace drowned on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, after falling through the ice during an attempt to rescue his hunting dog Miss Max.
Mr. Wallace was born April 27, 1952, in Brookings, S.D., to Wilford and Arlene Wallace. They finally settled in Britton, S.D., where Mr. Wallace completed his schooling, graduating in 1970.
After attending college at State and Concordia Colleges, he accepted a position as manager of Cenex Fertilizer Plant in Harlem and Glasgow. He became a true Montanan when he accepted a vice president position at the Bank in Harlem. While in Harlem he became involved in the Volunteer Fire Department, ambulance EMT and school board member among many other endeavors such as flying lessons and learning to golf.
In 1983 the family moved to Broadus where he accepted a position of vice president, then president of the then Powder River Bank, later becoming Rocky Mountain Bank. Mr. Wallace again became actively involved in all sorts of community projects such as Town Council, School Community Development Council, Chamber of Commerce, Powder River Wagon Train, ambulance EMT, and golf leagues among others.
In 1997 he accepted a position at the now RBC Wealth Management in Great Falls and becoming involved in the volunteer fire department as a board member. He decided to get a hunting dog and Miss Max joined the family. He joined the Golden Triangle Sporting Dog Club enrolling in and helping with all the clinics for dogs and owners, again accumulating a host of new bird hunting friends. In 2009 one of Miss Max’s puppies, Jazzygirl, joined the family and the training began anew.
Mr. Wallace touched just about everyone he met in a positive way, especially his family; wife of 30 years, Sharyn; children, Don, Laurie, Chell Jergesen; grandson, Trace Jergesen; father, Wilford Wallace; siblings, Linda Kilvington, Randy and Jean Wallace, Francis (Merdy) Simon, Stephanie (Jolie) Wallace and Robert (Bobby) Wallace; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins; mother-in-law, Rose Berry; and sisters-in law, Judy Fossum, Connie and Roy Milroy, Margie Berry, and their families.
He also leaves behind his hunting partners (labs), Miss Max, Jazzygirl and his so very many special friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Arlene Wallace in August 2009; father-in-law, Lee Berry in 2005;  Chell Jergesen in 1991; and Ronnie Simon in 1973.
Funeral services will be Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Broadus. Interment will follow in the Valley View Cemetery in Broadus.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus is in charge of arrangements.

 

Boyd Kenneth Liles

 Boyd Kenneth Liles, 93, of Glendive, formerly of Terry, died Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, in Glendive.
Mr. Liles was born Oct. 26, 1916, on Bull Run Creek in North Dakota to Vance and Maude Curl Liles. The family moved to Montana to what was known as the C.A. Thurston Ranch, which his grandfather, Elmer A. Liles, had purchased. This ranch was on the East Fork of Bad Route Creek. Due to bad times and the price of horses the family went back to North Dakota where his brother, Maynard, was born. In 1921, they moved back to the ranch in Montana where Mr. Liles’ first year of school was in the bunkhouse on the ranch. Times were tough and to help the family, his mother raised turkeys and would kill them and pack them in dry ice in barrels and take them to Terry to be shipped by train to Chicago. Mr. Liles skipped the third grade and went on to graduate from Terry High School in 1934. During high school it was not feasible to drive 25 miles every day so he boarded with another classmate, Gub Clarke, who remained a lifelong friend.
After graduation he worked with his father and grandfather before returning to North Dakota and working for his grandfather Curl. His cousin Gerald Curl, was working on the farm also and they remained close until the end. While there he worked for Audie Douglas. Many Sundays after Mr. Liles married, the family would drive to Golva to see Gerald and his family, allowing the adults to visit and exchange farming views and letting the children play together.
In May of 1942 Mr. Liles and a neighbor were the first Dawson County men drafted into World War II. He went to Fort Lewis, Wash., where he received his training.  He served with the 161st 26th Division of the Washington National Guard. During his training his mother died from cancer and the quickest way home was hitchhiking. He spent most of his service time in the Pacific Islands. He and another service buddy were sent to Australia for a little R & R (rest and relaxation) but while there his buddy met and married a local girl. Years later Mr. Liles and his wife went back to look his buddy up but sadly he had died six months earlier.
After Mr. Liles’ discharge from the service in 1945 he had $600 and used this money to buy a tractor and a plow. He and his brother, Maynard began their farming careers. Mr. Liles said the greatest smell in the world was that of fresh turned ground in the spring.
On June 8, 1950, he and Ila Marie Ross of Terry were married. In 1951 their son Kent was born followed by daughters Cella in 1952, Gail in 1957 and Kendra in 1962.
Mr. and Mrs. Liles moved into the first log stage stop built between Jordan and Glendive. Additions were added, but the original log building served as the bunkhouse until a new house was built in 1965 and the other was tore down.
In 1957 a hired man from Hazen, N.D., named Leo Schied came to work and stayed until he retired. He became a part of the family and Mr. Liles remarked that if he was away Mr. Schied would do things just as he would have. To help pay for the farm Mr. Liles traveled south to Kansas with his father and brothers doing custom combining for several years and many good friends went with him.
Mr. and Mrs. Liles enjoyed many fishing trips with the Hesses and the Paddocks. Mr. Liles loved restoring old tractors, which included a 1928 Hart Parr and a 1926 John Deere for his grandsons. Mr. Liles had a lot of fun driving the tractors in parades. He went to lots of threshing bees and antique tractor shows, which included the Rollag, Minn., show with the Joe Sygullas, Jerry Tillmans and Jim Russiff.
In 1965 at a 5oth anniversary party for an aunt and uncle. Guy and Iva Curl, and his grandmother’s birthday party they lost his youngest brother, Dick, to massive heart attack. Mr. Liles’ son, Kent, has been farming and ranching with his father since college and a stint in the National Guard. When his daughter Gail moved to Australia, Mr. Liles had an opportunity to visit her there. He always tried to make an annual trip to Utah every year. Ten days before his 90th birthday he suffered a stroke. He was able to live on his own for a year after the stroke until he moved into the Eastern Montana Veterans Home. He was proud of his service and was honored on Memorial Day for being a 50-year member of the Terry American Legion.
Mr. Liles had one true love in his life, Ila, whom he lost to cancer in 1986. Also preceding him in death were his parents and brothers Maynard in 1988 and Dick in 1965.
Mr. Liles is survived by his son, Kent (Christie) Liles and their children, Jason and Laci Jo; his daughters, Cella (Darrel) Meek, their child Cameron, Gail (Terry Thompson) and her children, Ryan Metcalf, Tara Metcalf and Jodi (Randy) Dyk, and Kendra (Howard) Morse and their sons Dillon and Kale; five great-grandchildren and two yet to be born.
A Prayer Service will be Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, at 2 p.m. at the Community Presbyterian Church in Terry. Interment will follow in the Prairie County Cemetery in Terry with full military honors.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry .

 

Hazel Denise Rickett
Hazel Denise Rickett, 47, of Miles City died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at the Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City.
She was born in Miles City on Aug. 1, 1962, the daughter of Raymond Hugo and Grace Hazel Flanigan Zuelke. She grew up and attended schools in Miles City.
Following graduation, she attended the University of Montana-Missoula. She then returned to Miles City where she worked at the Miles City Credit Union.
On May 5, 1984, she and Richard “Pat” Rickett were married in Miles City. Following their marriage, she worked for W.I.C., K-Mart and also at Holy Rosary Hospital. She then stayed home with her children and was a homemaker until 2007 when she began working at Wal-Mart.
She loved spending time with her family and especially enjoyed following her children in sports. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, bowling and was an avid Star Wars fan. She was a member of the United Methodist Church.
Her survivors include her husband: Pat Rickett, a son: Hunter Rickett and two daughters: Electra Rickett and Ezaria Rickett, all of Miles City; three brothers: Tom Zuelke of Denver, Colo., Lee (Marian) Zuelke of Miles City and Les (Jean) Zuelke of Fon du Lac, Wis.; a sister: Mary Bagley of Boulder; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two children in infancy.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, at 2:15 p.m. at the United Methodist Church 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 Stockman Bank for a fund set up for her children.

 

Colin Russell Pedder
Colin Russell Pedder, 91, of Miles City died Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, at Holy Rosary Healthcare.
Mr. Pedder was born at the family ranch in Bighorn on Sept. 11, 1918, to Colin Cameron Pedder and Harriett Russell Pedder. He attended school in the Bighorn area and graduated from Hysham High School in Hysham.
After graduation he enlisted in the Army-Air Corp as an armament loader for warplanes and was promoted to Staff Sergeant. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.
After completing his stint in the military, he met and married Mardell Devener of the Custer area and to their 50-year union came a son, Richard Cameron Pedder, and a daughter, Colette Rene’ Pedder. The Pedders were cattle ranchers in the Bighorn area between Hysham and Custer where the Bighorn River flows into the Yellowstone River. The family has many fond memories of days along the Bighorn.
Mr. Pedder served on the school board in Bighorn and Hysham for many years and was always a devoted Hysham Pirates fan and couldn’t wait for 4-C tournament time. He also was active in 4-H and served many years, as a leader, chaperone or whatever else was needed. Mr. and Mrs. Pedder moved to Miles City after selling their ranch so they could enjoy their grand-daughters, Jody and Alex, and watch them grow up into the beautiful ladies they are today. Mrs. Pedder died a number of years ago, so Mr. Pedder sold his house and moved into Eagles Manor.
He was a very good musician, playing the guitar and accordion while never learning to read a note of music. He could be found at many jam sessions and fiddler practices with his friends of the Southeastern Montana Fiddler’s group and various other musical groups.
On Sept. 8, 2008, Mr. Pedder was blessed with a great-grandson, Jax Eli Kinsey, who meant the world to his great-grandpa. Mr. Pedder recently enjoyed Christmas with his family and enjoyed watching Jax as he opened Christmas presents and got to know Santa for the first time.
Mr. Pedder is survived by his daughter: Colette (Lloyd) Butcher; son: Rick Pedder; grand-daughters:  Jody (Jase) Kinsey and Alex Butcher; and great-grandson, Jax Eli Kinsey, all of Miles City.
Survivors also include his sisters-in-law, Dolores Erickson of Billings and Linda Gorman of Bozeman; brother-in-law, Bill Devener of Whitehall; numerous nieces and nephews; and a multitude of friends. 
Funeral services will be Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. 
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

Rudolph "Rudy" Orren Lindstrom

Rudolph “Rudy” Orren Lindstrom, 57, of Terry died Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, near Roundup. 
Mr. Lindstrom was the son of Orren H. Lindstrom and Shirley G. Lutts Lindstrom Nunberg and step-son of Alfred J. Nunberg. He was born in Beach, N.D., on Aug. 7, 1952, and spent most of his formative years in Wibaux, graduating from Wibaux County High School in 1971. He was a mischievous and energetic young man, participating in football and was the FFA chapter president. At his junior year FFA banquet, he and his best friend Don Piesik made their singing debut with “Running Bare Through the Bushes.” 
Mr. Lindstrom was an honest, hardworking man who lived each moment with integrity, intensity and courage. He worked intensely, loved intensely, hunted, fished, befriended, and relaxed all intensely. His energy and heart were equally courageous and contagious. 
Even as a kid, Mr. Lindstrom adored fishing and hunting. He would go duck hunting down on the creek by his parents’ home. His mother’s ducks intermingled with the wild ducks and Mr. Lindstrom, of course, went for the biggest one in flight, which happened to be her prized duck. He had the biggest grin when he would tell this story, as he often did. He felt bad for killing the duck, but for whatever reason, the irony was hilarious.
Mr. Lindstrom also was involved in Boy Scouts. He was perhaps the ultimate Boy Scout and adhered to many of those tenants throughout life, and taught them to his children as well.  
His wild side eventually ended up landing him the Montana babe with the green eyes and the beautiful hair. They fell in love and eloped, continuing to live life as an adventure. Mr. Lindstrom and Kay (Engle) were married Aug. 19, 1972. They lived in Glasgow on the Air Force Base, moved to Isfahan, Iran, working for Tumpane Energy Co. They lived in Glendive when they returned from Iran where Mr. Lindstrom began a 20-year career working as a mechanic and foreman for Halliburton. From their marriage two children, Nicole (31) and Aaron (28), were born. During those 20 years, they lived in Glendive; Williston, N.D.; and Worland, Wyo. No matter where they were, they learned about survival, hunting, fishing, loving life, and loving one another.
Stillwater Mining Co in Nye offered a new adventure and new big toys for Mr. Lindstrom to “fix.” Mr. and Mrs. Lindstrom stayed in Red Lodge for several years; moved to Laurel; and then Mr. Lindstrom started his best and favorite job of his life at Rockwell Petroleum in Greybull, Wyo., which was a phenomenal job and made him so happy. Rockwell Petroleum unfortunately was affected by the economy and many jobs were cut. Mr. Lindstrom then started at Signal Peak Energy in March of 2009, and finished his work there on Jan. 2, 2010.  
The most important things to his family were that they absolutely loved being together and loved experiencing the outdoors together. He loved and lived for hunting season and fishing, but mostly the time he got to spend looking intensely for something elusive with people for whom he cared so very much. He always said that there is no bad day fishing. 
He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
His survivors include his wife of Terry; mother of Wibaux; children: Nicole (Ryan Mann) of Pullman, Wash., and Aaron (Joanna Thomas) of Colorado Springs, Colo.; brothers: James (Doreen) Lindstrom of Spokane, Wash., and Joel (Michele) Nunberg of North Platte, Neb.; a brother-in-law who was as close as a brother: Dennis Engle; sisters: Mona (Alex) Nunberg-Cantu of Escondido, Calif., and Marla Nunberg of Spokane; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and beloved friends throughout Montana, Wyoming and North Dakota.
He was preceded in death by his father and step-father.
Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the Wesleyan Church in Terry. Private family interment will be in the Dawson County Cemetery in Glendive.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Terry is in charge of arrangements.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

 

Kenneth Ray "Skip" Egge
Kenneth Ray “Skip” Egge, age 67, of Glendive, formerly of Miles City, died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, at the Eastern Montana Veterans Home in Glendive.
Mr. Egge was born on May 30, 1942, in Roundup, the son of Charles and Virginia Brownlee Egge. He was raised and educated in Miles City, graduating from the Custer County High School with the class of 1960.
He enlisted in the United State Navy in June 1961. Mr. Egge served in Vietnam as a Navy Corpsman attached to the 3rd Battalion of the 3rd Marine Corp. While he was serving in Vietnam he became a prisoner of war for three months until his escape from the camp. Mr. Egge returned to the United States and was employed as a lab supervisor by the military in the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington D.C., where he remained until his honorable discharge from the military.
He and Linda Lee were married in November 1964 in Virginia.
Mr. Egge returned to Montana and worked for the Glendive Community Hospital as a lab supervisor for three years. In 1974 he became employed in the oil field in Wyoming. During his oil field career he worked his way up from roughneck to district manager, retiring from Tubescope in Casper, Wyo., in 1988.
He attended Montana State University in Bozeman, graduating in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy. He attended Cooley Law School in Lansing, Mich., for a time before returning to Montana. Upon his return, Mr. Egge worked for United American Insurance Company, retiring in 2004.
Mr. Egge had been a resident of Glendive for the past 15 years and a resident of the Eastern Montana Veterans Home for the past year. He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America and a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 56 serving as a Worshipful Master in Casper in the mid-1980s.
He loved to go fly fishing and hunting. Mr. Egge enjoyed fast cars, drag racing, music and dancing. He was a huge fan of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
His survivors include his three sons, Steve Egge (Vee) of Odessa, Texas, Sean Egge (Christie) of Gastonia, N.C., and Brian Egge of Houston, Texas; four grandsons; and one sister, Cheryl Watson (Gerald) of Glendive.
Mr. Egge was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Greg in 1984; and infant daughter in 1968; and his wife, Linda in 1989.
A Life Tribute Service with Military Honors and Masonic Rites will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2010, in the Chapel of the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive with Celebrant Sandy Silha officiating. Interment will be at 1:45 p.m. on Jan. 7, 2010, in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com.