After a courageous battle with cancer, Barry Dean Brekhus, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, mentor and friend, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2024, with his loving wife, Bobbie, by his side.

We would like to extend a special thank you to all the doctors and nurses and caregivers at Billings Clinic who guided us through every difficult step of his treatment with so much care and kindness.

Barry was born in Mohall, North Dakota, on June 19, 1957, and grew up in Kenmare, North Dakota, with his parents, Harvey and Mildred Brekhus, and two younger siblings. He graduated high school in 1975 and from mortuary school at Mount Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, in 1980.

Barry moved to Billings shortly after earning his degree in funeral service, and went to work at Michelotti-Sawyers, providing funeral services to families in Billings and the surrounding area for 44 years. He was incredibly dedicated to each family he served and continued to do the work he loved until the end.

In 1994, Barry married the love of his life, Bobbie. They enjoyed their 30 years together, especially the time they shared with daughter Grace (Jason) Ruff, and three grandsons, Kai, Kamdon and Knox.

Barry’s grandsons were the light of his life. He shared a unique and special bond with each one of them. Barry encouraged Kai to join Cub Scouts as a first grader and took him to all his den meetings and events, as Kai worked up to the rank of Life Scout. Being part of Kai’s transition from little boy to young man gave Barry immense joy.

He looked forward to watching Kamdon play football and soccer and cherished having breakfast with him every morning before school this last year.

Grandson Knox read to Grandpa and played with his toys on the couch beside him. Barry got a kick out of every goodbye from Knox with his, “Gimme a kiss, Grandpa.”

A few days before he passed, Barry learned a fourth grandchild is on the way. He deeply loved and was so incredibly proud of his daughter and grandchildren. He lamented knowing he would not be here to meet the newest addition to their beautiful family.

Barry had a gentle, patient, and calming way about him and could always make you laugh with his quick, dry wit. He recently celebrated 39 years of sobriety and was a grateful and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Barry was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Brekhus.

Following a family graveside service, Barry’s urn will be placed in Bobbie’s family plot (Lambert) at the Shorthill Cemetery near Livingston.

Jayson Daniel Watkins, 55, passed away at home in Kalispell on Friday, September 13, 2024.

Jayson was born on November 25, 1968 in Iowa and raised by Paul and Diana Watkins. He graduated from Arapahoe Community College in 1998 with a degree in Mortuary Science.

Jayson wore many titles: husband, dad, brother, son, papa, friend, and, perhaps his most well known attribute, funeral director. He served many communities throughout 26 years as a funeral director in Montana, Oregon, and Arizona; where he owned his own funeral home. He had a passion for helping people and he was able to do that in the funeral industry. Jayson found serenity and joy in the mountains, forest, rivers, lakes, and oceans. He was a true outdoorsman; avid hunter, fisherman, and skier. His adventurous spirt took him on travels around the world. He was a lifelong SeaHawks fan that enjoyed listening to classical rock. Most importantly he was a family man that loved cooking and hosting BBQs that were surrounded by loved ones. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Jayson will forever be remembered by his wife, Danielle Teske-Watkins; his children, Jayson Watkins(Kimberly Boulger),

Kayla(Patrick) Finlan, Kyleigh and Bayleigh Burgoyne; Grandchildren, Alexia and Makayla Brabham, Jayson, Adynn, Roman, and Jasper Watkins, Patrick and Willow Finlan; his father, Threan Leach, his siblings;John(Teri)Watkins,

Gary(Sarina) Watkins,Linda Wright,

Jody(Falicia) Watkins, and Kimberly(Tracy) Wood; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in passing by his dad, Paul Watkins; his mother, Diana Watkins; daughter, Feleshia Brabham; granddaughter, Emma Finlan; and his brother Keith Watkins.

A celebration of Jayson’s life will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, 12 p.m., at the Canvas Church, 255 Summit Ridge Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901. We invite all who knew him to join us.

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

Scott Lukkason, 68, died Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Benefis ICU following cardiac arrest.

 Viewing will take place at O’Connor Funeral Home, 2425 8th Ave N, on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 5:00-8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Great Falls Church of Christ,1300 6th St NW with viewing at 11:00 AM and the funeral at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery.

 Scott was born April 25, 1956, to Joe and Dai Lukkason in Great Falls. He graduated from Three Forks High School in 1974. He attended MSU before graduating from San Francisco College of Mortuary Science. In 1978, Scott married Shirley Todd. They lived in Three Forks, and Scott worked at K&L Mortuary. He eventually returned to Bozeman and completed his bachelor’s degree in English in 1982. During that time, he also completed a ministry training program through the Bozeman Church of Christ. He worked as a campus minister in Bozeman. They moved to Minneapolis, and Scott worked as a minister for the Minneapolis Church of Christ. After returning to Montana in 1986, he worked for many years as a funeral director in Billings, Great Falls, and Ellensburg, WA. He retired from funeral service in 2015, and Scott served as a minister and elder for the Great Falls Church of Christ until his death.

 Scott was a faithful and devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather. He was a passionate disciple of Jesus, loved to study the Bible, and dedicated his life to helping others grow closer to the Lord. He was known for his optimism, joyful smile, compassion, and service to others. Scott was an avid hunter, hiker, cyclist, and lifelong learner.

 Scott is survived by his wife, Shirley; sons, Chad (Sara) and Todd (Amanda); brother, Ross (Sue); and grandchildren, Hannah, Heidi, Gage, Levi, Silas, Amira, and Amaya.

Memorials are suggested to the Great Falls Church of Christ.

 Condolences for the family may be shared at www.OConnorFuneralHome.com.

Barbara Jean Montgomery, 66, of Black Eagle passed away on October 5, 2021. Four years ago, a stroke took away her “spark of life.” COVID took away anything that was left.

 Barb was born in Minot, ND on October 10, 1954, to Wesley and Erma Munson. Shortly after that, they moved to Billings, MT. One of Barb’s biggest dreams was to own a horse, which her parents said she could have if they ever lived out in the country. Much to their surprise, her dad eventually found a job as a country school janitor. This meant that Barb could now have her horse. She spoke fondly of having the horse neck deep in the ditch and jumping off his back to go swimming. Barb became the first in her family to graduate from high school when she graduated from West High School in 1972. 

After graduation, she married Steven Harren but divorced shortly after that. Barb tried to work as a waitress but ended up pouring a pitcher of beer onto someone who got a little too loud and a little too friendly. She agreed with her boss that she needed a different profession. She determined that it should be a sitting down job, so she became a secretary and worked for Weissman’s in Billings and then the City of Billings at the water department.

She met David Montgomery and gave birth to her daughter, Nicole. She moved with Dave to Bozeman and attended Montana State University for a couple years and the couple married. School was not her thing, and she went to work for Weissman’s again in Bozeman. At the time, she drove a blue Volkswagen Beetle she named “George” to work. One day the temperature was about 20 below and everyone’s expensive vehicles would not start, but “George” did. The shotgun rider was in charge of scraping the window on the inside since that air-cooled engine could not keep up with four people breathing in that bitter cold.

 After Dave graduated MSU, the family moved to Great Falls and Barb gave birth to Karom David. Karom’s kidneys were destroyed soon after birth so that meant Barb and Dave did around the clock dialysis at home to keep him alive. He was a happy boy with a great smile. Unfortunately, SIDS came to call, and he died the day after Thanksgiving. A year later, Danielle was born. In Great Falls, Barb worked for a group of accountants and was then hired as a secretary and insurance adjuster for Crawford and Company. She ended her career as an Administrative Assistant at the Great Falls Community Food Bank. She truly enjoyed working for George Paul and Gayle Carlson. While working there, she was excited to welcome her grandchildren, Emily and Jacen. She was planning to work a few more years, but one day she came to work and could not remember how to do things even though she had worked there for 10 years. The stroke had happened, and she retreated to her home.

 She loved reading romance novels. In fact, she would head to work an hour or more early so she could sit in the parking lot and read before work. Sadly, her stroke caused such memory problems that reading became impossible for her.

 Summer was her favorite season, and her back yard was always full of colorful geraniums, petunias and one cherry tomato plant for Dave. Her Basset Hound, Frank, was her constant companion the last few years. She also enjoyed collecting goose and duck themed figurines, cookie jars, and other items to decorate the house. She asked that her remains be placed in her goose cookie jar and be interred at Hillcrest Mausoleum. Those wishes will be honored. 

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Milton (Darlene) Munson; and son, Karom. 

 She is survived by her husband; daughters, Nicole (Ben) Jetland and Dani (MaryAnn) Montgomery; and grandchildren.

 A memorial service will be held at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel on Friday, October 15, 2021, at 2:00 p.m.

 Condolences for the family may be shared online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com

Funeral Services for Brandon Stevenson, 37, of Colorado Springs, CO will be 10:00 am, Friday, December 17, 2021 at the Stevenson Funeral Home in Dickinson with Pastor Scott Skones officiating. A Second Funeral will be held at 1:00 pm, Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at the Woodmen Valley Chapel at the Rockrimmon Campus in Colorado Springs, CO with Pastor Matt Ferrell officiating. Burial will be held in Colorado Springs. Full Military Honors will be presented by the Dickinson Drill Team and the Army’s 10th Special Forces Group.

Brandon Dale Stevenson was born February 28, 1984 in Miles City, MT to Jonathan and Marlys (Kolka) Stevenson where he joined brother, Nicolas. Due to a sudden and brief illness, Brandon passed away December 12, 2021 at St. Francis Medical Center in Colorado Springs, CO. Brandon was raised and spent most of his childhood and adolescence in Baker, MT before moving to Dickinson, ND in 2001. Brandon graduated from Trinity High School in 2003 where he excelled in football, wrestling, and track.

Following high school, Brandon was nominated to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Brandon graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in History and commissioned as an Army Infantry officer. During Brandon’s ten years in the Army, he earned many distinguished awards including the Army Ranger and Special Forces Tabs, as well as Combat Infantryman, Combat Action, Air Assault, and Airborne badges. Brandon entered the United States Army Special Forces in 2012 and earned the coveted and distinguished Green Beret. Brandon faithfully served the nation with seven deployments that took him all over the world to include three tours to Iraq, Libya, Jordan, Germany and Niger where he was awarded two Bronze Stars for his valor in combat. Perhaps Brandon’s greatest military accomplishment was the deep and life-long friendships he built with his Army brethren.

Brandon married his best friend, Wendy Junelle Jorde in Dickinson, ND, May 26, 2012. Brandon and Wendy lived in four states and settled in Colorado Springs, CO after Brandon was stationed at Fort Carson with the Army’s 10th Special Forces Group. Brandon and Wendy have two beautiful children, Adler 3 and Hadley 16 months. Brandon wholeheartedly enjoyed being a dad to Adler and Hadley and being a dad brought immense joy. Brandon was the best at being the bedtime story narrator, lyric creator, song singer, fire camp starter, tickle monster and so, so much more. Adler’s and Hadley’s first word was dada’ which is evident by Brandon’s sweet-sweet love, commitment, humor, and happiness that he shared with the kids and the love they felt for their dada. Although so young, we know that Brandon’s attention, love, and connection will carry Adler and Hadley through life with his insurmountable love.

Brandon separated from the United States Army in 2017 and went to work for Northwestern Mutual, which allowed him the opportunity to explore and get grounded in the financial sector. This past summer Brandon embarked upon his entrepreneurial journey and created his own financial practice, Imperium Capital. Brandon was well on his way of creating greatness in the financial world. This endeavor brought great love, commitment and passion to his life, and he was determined to make something big out of nothing, following in his father’s footsteps.

Brandon was a committed son, brother, husband, father, and friend. This is evident by the amount of people around the United States and world who have shown their support and love during this incredibly difficult time. The profound amount of sadness is indescribable. Brandon loved well and showed up for so many. Brandon’s humor, wit, and smile will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. The overwhelming love and support, like his commitment to country and others, has been unwavering. Although it seems impossible, we’ll weather this storm and our love for Brandon and God will lead us through.

Survivors include: wife, Wendy and children, Adler and Hadley, Colorado Springs, CO; parents, Jon and Marlys Stevenson, Dickinson, ND; brother, Nic (Terri) Stevenson, Dickinson, ND; father and mother-in-law, Wayne and Vangie Jorde, Dickinson, ND; grandma, Marlene Stevenson, Miles City, MT; brothers-in-law, Justin (Lisa) Jorde, Thornton, CO; Joshua (Lindsey) Jorde, Dickinson, ND; sister-in-law, Angie (Bryan) Muri, Colorado Springs, CO; half sister-in-law, Angela (Steve) Bagan, Fargo, ND; nieces and nephews: Sadie, Nathan, Ali, Patrick, and Delaney Stevenson; Marisa and Aralynn Panasuk; Addison, Scarlett and Payton Jorde; Kinley and Levi Muri.

Brandon was preceded in death by his grandfather Dale Stevenson, niece Ava Jorde, and Grandpa Whimp. As well as his brothers-in-arms Captain Jay Jones and Major Sean Maples.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Brandon Stevenson Memorial Fund that will help ensure that Adler and Hadley are able to live out their dreams.

Arrangements by Stevenson Funeral Home – Dickinson

Paula Suzanne (Kimple) Whitaker was born in Salem, Oregon on December 26, 1936, to Donald and Delpha Kimple. She came from a heritage of pioneer stock, as many of her ancestors were part of 1845 great migration who travelled west in covered wagons. They were among the earliest settlors of Oregon. She grew up in Eola, Salem and Keizer. Paula graduated from North Salem High School in 1955. After graduation, she was hired at “Ma Bell”, the phone company. She worked a total of 40 years before retiring.

Paula met the love of her life, Laurence “Larry” Whitaker on a blind date. The two were smitten with each other and married on September 7, 1957. One week later, the two moved to San Francisco, where Larry went to mortuary school. Paula typed all of his notes and at the end of the school year, she was confident she could pass the state boards! In 1958, Larry graduated and the two began life in the Funeral Industry.

In 1958, they welcomed their first daughter, Debbie, and 22 months later, their son Scott was born. Soon after, they purchased a funeral home and ambulance service in Albany, Oregon. The family lived in the funeral home when their youngest daughter, Lynn, was born. Paula would comment on the challenges of raising young children while living in the funeral home. She would also say the kids had excellent manners and knew how to use their “funeral voices” (speaking very quietly). While Larry ran the funeral business, Paula was also involved, particularly taking calls.

In the late 60’s, the funeral home was sold, and the family moved to Beaverton, Oregon. Paula transferred with “Ma Bell” and loved working in downtown Portland. She loved the hustle and bustle of the city. She and her good buddy, Judy, would hit the streets running during lunch hour to go shopping.

Paula was a fantastic homemaker. Although she worked fulltime and had three kids, her home was always very neat, tidy, and clean. Paula loved music and was an accomplished pianist. She was a talented seamstress and made the majority of her and the girls’ clothes. She also was very talented at knitting, embroidery, needlepoint and later in life began a love affair with beading. She made all holidays very special for her family. The home was always decked out for each holiday. She would do her Christmas shopping throughout the year and would look for just the “perfect” gift and would gift wrap them with flair.

In 1978, Larry took a travelling sales job and was often out of town. Paula was quite the independent lady and would hold down the fort at home for weeks at a time. She was often taking phone orders when funeral directors would call. She could even guide funeral directors over the phone on how to clean the filter in their embalming machines!

Paula was a die-hard Trailblazer fan and they had season tickets for well over 30 years. She would rarely miss a game and if Larry was out of town, she would take one of her kids or a friend. She was not going to miss a game just because Larry was out of town!!! Paula loved big cities – Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco. She also enjoyed trips to the Oregon Coast. By far her favorite vacations were the month-long trips Larry and Paula would take to the Hawaiian Islands.

Paula has been described as feisty, a fireball, a spitfire. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grand-mother, and friend. She was loyal and a champion of all she loved. She often could be heard exclaiming, “Oh! Isn’t that wonderful!”

Paula is pre-deceased by her husband, Larry; daughter-in-law, Deon; and, grandson, Forest.

She is survived by her children Debbie (Jerry) Van Kirk; Scott (Alicia); Lynn (Paul) Szasz; grandchildren Brook and Steven; her brother, Steven (Brenda Pace) Kimple and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 am Monday, August 23, 2021, at River View Cemetery in the Adams Chapel, 300 South Taylors Ferry Road, Portland, OR 97219. Private family entombment to follow in River View Cemetery Mausoleum.

Howdy! That was always the first word to come out of Tyson’s mouth when he greeted people. Tyson Gene Haycock entered this world on the 21st of August, 2000 at the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho. His parents Dustin Gene Haycock and Jessica Christina Adams would later give him a sister and a brother. Natalie and Caiden, whom he loved dearly.

Tyson’s greatest joys were hunting with his family, volunteering at the Vet, playing and listening to music, caring for our dogs Jerzey, Copper, and Rocco and his cat Chirp. Those animals were his greatest pride and joy. He loved his mission more than anything else as he was serving the Lord and gaining his own testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Even though he only served a few weeks in New Mexico, he fell in love with his mission and especially his companions Elder Britton Jeremie Berrett and Elder Michael Austin Davis. Tyson is continuing his service to the Lord on the other side of the veil alongside his companion Elder Davis.

Our brother Tyson was very outgoing, caring, and very very stubborn. Not a day went by when he didn’t do some act of service whether it be helping our neighbors, helping mom with work, cooking and baking for our family, or helping his little sister with her car troubles and all of her gardening needs. In fact, he insisted and was eager to do these things. Starting from a young age, he had a love for music. You would not find him without at least one earbud in his ear. We would often play “Guess the Song” as a family together as music is such an important aspect in our family. We would also have competitions seeing who could get the bigger deer. Tyson had his years where he was close to getting the biggest deer, but Caiden would always show him up. He would always take care of skinning it though. Tyson would still say he’s the better hunter. He would not leave the house without a sharp knife and would often be found sharpening one of his many knives. He loved nature and everything that came with it. He’d often chase Natalie with snakes, frogs, toads, and even a quail that he found in our yard. He loved making people laugh and smile and could tell when someone needed a pick-me-up. He loved being with his best friend “Pipsqueak” McKinsey Jerrel which included getting their cherished pedicures.

If you didn’t find him helping out mom or working around the house, then you would find him working on his many projects, his last of which being a bow. But at the end of the day, family and friends were most important to him.

Tyson was greeted on the other side of the veil on the 22nd of July 2021 by his grandmother Darlene Adams, great-grandparents Wayne and Alice Anne Christensen, great-grandparents Jim and Mabel Adams, grandfather Donald Haycock, grandmother Carla Vasquez, great grandparents Deral and Margie Haycock, great-grandmother June Haycock, great-grandparents James and Ruby Jennings, uncle Timothy Haycock, and aunt Jody Longie. We know that families can be together forever and hold fast to that knowledge.

Tyson is terribly missed by his parents Dustin and Jessica Haycock, sisters Natalie and Calista, brother Caiden, grandparents Jon and Suzie Adams, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Thank you to all of those who showed their love to Tyson in the Idaho, Oregon, Montana, New Mexico and Utah areas.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, July 29, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.

Tyson loved animals, please, if desired, donate to your local animal shelter in honor of him.

Dale Zimmerman, 93, lifelong resident of Garrison, died on Sunday, December 20, 2020 at the Garrison Hospital, not COVID related. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 27, 2020 at 2:00 pm at the First Congregational Church in Garrison. Masks will be required. The service will be livestreamed at www.facebook.com/garrisonthompsonfh/

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 26, 2020 from 2 to 7 pm at Thompson Funeral Home, Garrison. CDC and North Dakota COVID-19 guidelines will be followed.

Dale was born May 2, 1927 to Herman and Beatrice (Ziegler) Zimmerman in Garrison, ND where he was raised and educated. He married Helen Johnson in Garrison on November 25, 1948.

Dale and Helen owned the Dairy Queen in Garrison and he later worked for REA as a lineman for two years. He then began what ended up being a 40-year career as a Service Representative for Otter Tail Power Company. He also worked part time for Rensch Farm Store for 5 years.

Dale was extremely active in the Garrison community. He was a member of the Garrison Sportsman Club, Elks Club, Garrison Jaycee's (twice the Jaycee Man of the Year), Garrison Trooper Boosters, and was deacon and board member of the First Congregational Church. He also served as the judge for the City of Garrison for many years. Dale was a very dedicated member of the Garrison Fire Department for 20 years and later attended all the departments activities as an honorary member. Dale had great enthusiasm for trains and train sets. Anyone that stopped at the house, got a tour of the trains and of course they couldn't leave without seeing his "coo coo clock". He especially enjoyed showing his collection to children. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing cards with family and friends and he loved to hunt and fish.

Dale is survived by his wife of 72 years, Helen, Garrison; son, Kyle (Deb) Zimmerman, Anaconda,

MT; daughters, Linda (Dennis) Fetzer, Rapid City, SD, Kathy (Greg) Stomp, Cooperstown, ND,

Ronda Tompers, Cascade, MT; grandchildren, Dr. Candace Fetzer, Denise Fonner, Amy Haugen, Alison Renschler, Peter Tompers, Chad Tompers, Kristen Bruner, Roberta Cruse, and Robert

Zimmerman; 18 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; sister, Sharon Eslinger, sisters-in-law, Alma Zimmerman and Joan Zimmerman, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters-in-law, Duane Zimmerman, Glen

Zimmerman, Gene (JoAnn) Zimmerman, Don Zimmerman, sister, Donna Moen, brother-n-law, Orin Eslinger, and son-in-law, David Tompers.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to the donor's choice.

Mary A. Vial

FARMINGTON – Mary A. Vial of Farmington, passed away on December 2, 2020 at Cedarhurst Senior Living at the age of 86. She was born on October 13, 1934 in Cavalier, North Dakota to William and Grace (See) Beaton.

Mary attended school at Cavalier, North Dakota and continued her education at Northwest Laboratory Technology School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was employed at St. Mary's Hospital in Conrad for three years, and then married Patrick Wyse in December of 1957. They made their home in Conrad, where Pat was in business with his father in the Wyse Funeral Home. Mary became a licensed funeral director in 1962 and after being divorced, she continued to manage the Wyse Funeral Home. In 1980 she moved to Great Falls, where she was employed by the O'Connor Funeral Home for eight years. In 1988 she married Vernon Vial and they retired to Mesa, Arizona, later residing in Chandler, Arizona. She enjoyed being church organist in Conrad and Great Falls, and later directed the Venture Out Choir in Mesa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Vern Vial, her son, Thomas Wyse, and three sisters, Joyce Beaton, Ruth Renaud and Billie Iverson. Survivors include her children, Theresa (Mark) Kellogg of Farmington, MO, Kevin (Sandi) Wyse of Townsend, MT and Timothy (Lynda) Wyse of Colorado Springs, CO, her stepchildren, Jane (Gary) Meyer of Denver, CO, Douglas (Heather) Vial of Raymond, WA, Shirley (Greg) Schermele of Great Falls, MT and Roger (Lori) Vial of Mesa, AZ, along with 23 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, her son in law, Vivek Wyse of Berkeley, CA, and several nieces, nephews and friends.

Due to COVID, a private prayer service will be held at Cozean Memorial Chapel. Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Help the Hungry Bake Sale, P.O. Box 657, Farmington, MO 63640. View the online obituary and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com

Dorothy “Clay” (Klimper) Malisani

Clay came from a long line of Montana gold mining pioneers, yet her true treasure was found in faith and family. Faith and trust in the will of God sustained her in all the seasons of life and formed the foundation of her family.

Dorothy Clay (Klimper) Malisani, 81, died Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at her home in the presence of her family and prayers from near and far. Clay was born July 8, 1939 in Malta, MT to Max and Dorothy (Whitcomb) Klimper. She had fond memories of her childhood spent at Ruby Gulch and Beaver Creek near the Zortman mining operation where her grandparents Charles and Katie B. Whitcomb pursued their dreams. Later in life Clay independently ensured the publication of their story Top O’ the Mountain was preserved and continues to this day.

In 1957 she graduated from Fromberg High School and was a member of the class of 1960 Columbus School of Nursing in Great Falls. While in Great Falls Clay caught the eye and stole the heart of Arthur Malisani. They were married June 18, 1960 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fromberg. Seven children were blessed to be born to this union. Clay became wholly Italian by marriage. Eventually, she became the beloved Nonna to 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Art and Clay’s 41 years together were a shining example of love, faith and devotion. Together they built upon the family business Malisani, Inc., raised the family they cherished and enjoyed simple pleasures like golf, travel, and a glass of homemade vino.

Clay was a colorful, multifaceted gem: a talented and stylish seamstress ahead of the curve in design and fashion; an epic entertainer where every event was cause for celebration; an elegant hostess of high teas and hats; infamous for her Halloween witch cackle and character; gritty, witty, gracious, clever, ingenious, generous; quite a gal!

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Arthur; infant son Angelo; siblings Louis Klimper, Charles Klimper, Kathleen Larum and Maxine Stevens.

Survivors include her sister Marlene Klimper; children Angie (Guy) Beck of Couer d’Alene, Idaho, Arthur (Renee) Malisani, Jr. of Great Falls, Linda Malisani of Great Falls, Tony (Karen) Malisani of Great Falls, John (Laura) Malisani of Havre, Ann (Shane) Salisbury of Billings.

Services will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Great Falls with viewing at 6 pm on Friday, November 20 followed by a Rosary and Vigil Service at 7 pm. The Funeral Mass will be held at 8 am Saturday, November 21 followed by the Rite of Committal at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Masks and social distancing will be observed. Donations can be made in honor of Dorothy Malisani to Benefis Peace Hospice of Montana.https://www.benefis.org/benefis-foundation/giving/donate-foundation

Condolences may be shared online at m.schniderfuneralhome.com.

For those unable to attend, the service will also be available by LIVESTREAM at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTbG1hBy1bJndtpTQPNxo4w

Kathleen Ann(O’Reilly) Pittman

On the afternoon of August 4th, 2020 our wife, mother, grandmother, surrogate grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend died at the Billings Clinic after a brief non Covid-19 related respiratory illness. She was surrounded by the family she so dearly loved. She fought hard until the end.

Kathleen Ann(O’Reilly) Pittman was born April 1, 1951 into a large Irish Catholic family in Lewistown, MT to Pat and Arlene O’Reilly. She was raised in Roy, MT where she attended school and she played basketball and ran track. She graduated as valedictorian from Roy High School in 1969.

After graduation she attended college at The College of Great Falls, Northern Montana College (MSU-Northern) then graduating from Eastern Montana College (MSU-Billings) with a bachelor’s degree in business education.

She began her teaching career in Fraizer, MT then Savage, MT. She left teaching and briefly worked as a social worker in Sidney, MT before moving to Colstrip in 1978 where she began working for the Montana Power Co. as an accounting clerk until moving to the Rosebud Mine in the accounting department. In her 42 years working at the mine she used her strong work ethic to advance through many promotions in accounting, purchasing, warehousing supervisor, and concluding her tenure as a Regional Supply Chain Manager for the Westmoreland Mine Company.

While in college she met her first husband Burdette Newman, to this union three boys, the light of her life were born; Douglas, Trevor and Travis and she was blessed with two foster daughters Starla Kay and Renee. Kathy and Burdette later divorced. In 1988 she began a new journey with the love of her life, Bill Pittman. They were united in marriage on December 27th, 1991 and she gained a stepson Reilly. In 1994 her very special granddaughter Rayne was born.

While juggling her career and family life she perfected the art of motherhood. Whether it was waking up at 5:00 AM to drive her boys to a wrestling tournament and volunteering at it all day to maintaining everyday activities that accompany a growing family she never missed a beat. Her passion for motherhood was able to continue while supporting her granddaughter through basketball and other activities. For nearly 30 years she was an avid supporter of Colstrip athletics.

Her greatest joy in life was being involved in her family’s lives, including her children, granddaughter, surrogate children and grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Kathy’s kindness and caring reached beyond her family as she was there to support any person who faced any struggle in their life. She welcomed into her home countless young people and served as a mother figure and mentor. Her gentle spirit served to comfort many lives.

She loved bringing her family together. She visited with her mother and siblings on a near daily basis and spearheaded family reunions in Lewistown.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Douglas and Mike; sister Patti Jo. Brothers in law Alfred Braine and Eugene Desmarais and sister in law June Dahle.

She is survived by the love of her life Bill Pittman, sons Douglas of Billings, Trevor of Helena and Travis of Missoula, step-son Reilly (Sarah)of Issaquah, WA and their children August and Daniel, granddaughter Rayne (Daniel) of Colstrip, Kaylee (Alex) of Billings and their daughters Hannah and Zoey; Foster daughters Starla Kay and Renee of Oklahoma, brothers Jim (Sharon), Tom (Maureen), John (Nancy), Tim (Beth), and Eddie Brooks. Sisters Barbara (John), Mary (Dick), and Theresa; Sister in law Ruby Braine, Brother in law Jim Dahle and Leland (Jeanette). As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends she loved very much. Including very special cousins John Huntley and Heather Kipf, who served as a great comfort to her. In her lifetime she touched countless lives that will always have a special place in her heart.

Kathy loved flowers and they are a welcomed gift. In lieu of one certain charity; in her memory please give of yourself to someone in need with no expectation of repayment; love generously and unconditionally as she did.

Family will receive friends from 4-6PM Monday August 10, 2020 a vigil service will follow at 6PM at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. A funeral mass will be 10AM Tuesday August 11, 2020 at Rye Park in Colstrip. Rite of Committal will follow Wednesday August 12, 2020 at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Lewistown at 2PM. Stevenson and Sons have been entrusted with the arrangements. To leave condolences may be shared with the family by visiting stevensonandsons.com.

Alice Joy Seymour passed away in Butte on December 7, 2019, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Alice truly loved life and filled every room with laughter. She will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and community. Born in Belgrade to Charles and Edna Sayers, Alice was the youngest of seven children.

At the age of five, the Sayers family moved to Butte where Alice resided for the rest of her life. During the second grade at the Webster Garfield, Alice met a “cool boy” from Timber Butte, Martin “Joe” Seymour. Alice and Joe married at the Boulder Hot Springs on December 22, 1952.  Joe and Alice’s marriage was a wonderful example of what a selfless marriage with a firm foundation of friendship looked like to their children and grandchildren. Alice and Joe were blessed with 62 years of marriage and friendship before Joe passed away in 2014 from Parkinson’s disease.

Alice’s favorite place was in Wise River next to Alder Creek. Alice hosted parties, reunions, and even weddings at the Seymour cabin in Wise River. Whether she hosted hundreds of attendees at the Sayers and Seymour family reunions or a dozen family members around the table at weekly Sunday dinners, all that mattered to Alice was that her family was around her.

Alice loved exploring the Pioneer Mountains by snowmobile, ATV, or Sunday drives with Joe, her family, and her friends. Alice also enjoyed painting ceramics, sewing, cooking, and caring for her home and garden.

In the 2000 Sayers Family Reunion book she wrote:

“Life has been a great adventure. But, the greatest adventure of all has been lots of fun and laughter with family. It doesn’t get better than that.”

Alice is survived by her five children: Joe (Judy) Seymour, Steve (Marcia) Seymour, Terri (Mark) James, Maureen Seymour, Tim (Teresa) Seymour, and twelve grandchildren: Jason(Jamie) Seymour, Jamie (Chris) Rask, Jordan (Jesse) Tracy, Chris (Mark) Noel, Steve (Dawn) Seymour, Sean (Priscilla) Seymour, Austin (Rose) James, Taylor (Justin Howell) James, Jesse (Stephanie) Sheehy, Kelly Sheehy, Drew (Kristen Cole) Sheehy, Tim Seymour, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Alice was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her siblings. In addition to her children and grandchildren, Alice is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Dan (Terri) Seymour, Jim (Marie) Seymour, Bev Monahan of Butte, Barb (Bob) Richards, Leo Calcaterra, of Helena, and many nieces and nephews.

Alice’s family would like to thank The Springs of Butte for the love and care given to Alice during her residence, with special thanks to Shelly Allison and Lauren Kippen.

Memorial donations may be made to Senior Solutions Hospice Care or to Our Lady of the Rockies.

Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13th at the Copper King Hotel, 4655 Harrison Ave. A Funeral Liturgy and Celebration of Her Life will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Alice and her family.

Fred Nelson, 91, longtime Montana music educator and Missoula resident, died Thursday (Dec. 5) at Libby, Montana.

Fred was born November 28, 1928 at Kalispell, Montana to Raymond Nelson and Martha O’Brien Nelson; he and his sister Evelyn attended grade school at Kalispell.  At the time of their mother’s death in 1940, the family moved to Polson and then to Anaconda where he attended junior high and high school, graduating from Anaconda High in 1947. 

Following high school, he worked at the Anaconda Company Smelter and later, for the BA&P (Butte Anaconda Pacific) Railroad and, being an excellent trumpet player, played numerous dance jobs throughout the area. Following his lifelong passion for music, he enrolled at the University of Montana in 1948 where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music.  During his earlier musical foray in high school, he noticed the piano player in the dance band, a pretty Anaconda girl named Marlene Murray.  They were married on St. Patrick’s Day 1951 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Missoula; this loving relationship would last for 61 years until her death in 2012. 

 They remained in Missoula where Fred finished his degree and worked part-time for the  Montgomery Ward company. He also had a dance band (The Moon Moods) that was well known throughout the Missoula area; Fred and the band’s drummer Mel Rice would remain lifelong friends. 

He served in the U.S. Army, serving stateside and overseas in Japan with the post-WWII occupational forces.  Following his discharge from active duty in 1954, he accepted his first teaching job as band director at Polson Public Schools.  During this time, he also earned his Masters Degree from U of M.

He came to Libby in 1957, accepting the position as director of bands and music department supervisor for Libby Public Schools.  He remained there during a period of student growth years with baby boomers and the influx from Libby Dam construction.  During this time, Libby became a AA school with student participation in music growing from 50 to nearly 500 students.    

In the fall of 1971 he returned to Missoula, accepting the position as director of bands at Sentinel High School, continuing his passion for teaching music until retiring in June of 1987.  He remained in Missoula where he was employed by Morgenroth Music Center as a sales representative throughout western Montana.  He stayed actively involved in music education as guest conductor and adjudicator at many music festivals throughout the area and, for many years, as a private music teacher.  He and Marlene enjoyed traveling both here and abroad during this time, much of it with good friends Mel and Charlotte Rice.

 In the later 1980’s Fred, along with several other alumni of the UM School of Fine Arts, founded the U of M Alumni Band which remains a very large part of every homecoming celebration.

In November of 2013, he married Karina Hatch; they enjoyed dancing, traveling and many other adventures until her death in October of 2016. During his later years, he enjoyed residing at Grizzly Peak and the wonderful friendships he had with all who resided there.

Throughout his life, he remained a doting grandfather to Dale, Chris, Lisa, Jennifer, Caitlyn, Lindsey and Eduardo and great- grandfather to Lauren, Jesse, Eric, Isaiah, Zoey, Sophia and Sophie.

He was preceded in death by his wives and his sister Evelyn in 2012.  Surviving him are his sons, Niles Nelson and wife Bobbie of Libby; Dale Nelson of Polson; and Grant Nelson and wife Marybeth of El Cajon, CA.

A visitation for former students and friends in Libby will be Wednesday (12-11) from 3-8 p.m. at the Schnackenberg Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be Friday (12-13) at 11:00 a.m. at Garden City Funeral Home in Missoula with a reception immediately following in the funeral home hospitality center.  Committal service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Missoula Cemetery.  Condolences and memories may be shared online by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com (in Libby) or www.gardencityfh.com (in Missoula).

Kenneth George Avison, “Ken”

Kenneth George Avison, “Ken” died on August 26th, 2020 due to complications from cancer. Ken was born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada to Frances McDougal and George Avison on June 5th, 1945.

When Ken was 8 years-old he found his love for the art of magic and performed 100’s of shows with his faithful assistant Dorothy, his sister. He has performed thousands of shows, 500 birthday party shows alone in the 17 years The Cove has been open.

Ken was an avid musician as well, the drums being his instrument of choice. He played in several bands, including Paul Revere and the Raiders as well as The Fendermen. When he was with The Fendermen they had a huge hit called “Muleskinner Blues” that has been covered several times, most notably by Dolly Parton.

During this time, he was also an avid hockey player (goalie) and got picked to play in the NHL. The day of signing he snapped his leg and that dream went out the window.

He had a long career as a school administrator both as a principal and superintendent, touching many young lives. He was given the nickname “Radar” because of his uncanny way of hearing and seeing everything, resulting in no one getting away with anything in his school. His mother, when visiting him at one of his schools, would ask if he was really in charge or if he was pranking her and was actually the janitor. This had to do with it taking more than 7 years to finish high school due to his pranks and rock and roll lifestyle!

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law’s Tom Vert and Darrell Sutton and several good friends.

Ken is survived by his wife of 50 years, Tami; his sons Jason, Kevin (Aimee), and Ryan Avison. His sister Dorothy of Sherwood Park, AB, many nieces and nephews, brothers-in-law’s Chris Vert of Seattle and Steve Vert of Polson, and sister-in-law Sadie Vert of Minnesota, and grandchildren Christian, Declan, Lex, Nate, Zane and Zander.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 from 9:00 am- 5:00 pm at The Lake Funeral Home, a Vigil and Sharing will be Tuesday, September 1st at 7:00 pm at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday, September 2nd at 10:00 am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

John Everett Bullis, 96, passed away on November 22, 2019 at the Big Horn County Memorial Hospital in Hardin, Montana.  He was born to John Wellington and Lucilla (Stinard) Bullis on March 14, 1923 in the family home. Everett graduated from Hardin High School in 1941 where he was a member of the basketball team, drama club, played saxophone in the band and was the president of the class of 1941.  He attended the University of Montana before enlisting in the US Army serving in the 114th Army Airways Communications System during WWII in North Africa.  Following his discharge, he attended St. Louis University School of Mortuary Science graduating in 1947.  He returned to Hardin and worked with his father at Bullis Mortuary.  He met Beatrice Zelenka at the Billings Railway Depot and the couple married on August 9, 1947 in Lewistown. They made their home in Hardin and celebrated 70 years of marriage in 2017.

He was truly dedicated to his life’s work as a funeral director and put the needs of the families he served first.  He served as Big Horn County Coroner for 50 years.  Everett was recognized in June 2018 by the Montana Funeral Directors’ Association (MFDA) for his 70 years as a licensed funeral director. He was elected MFDA President in 1968 and was proud of Bullis Mortuary’s “by invitation only” acceptance into the Selected Independent Funeral Homes organization. Everett loved Hardin and all of Big Horn County and gave his time and energy to many organizations.  He was a lifelong  member of the Hardin First United Methodist Church, a member of the Hardin Kiwanis Club, St. Johns Lodge #82 AF & AM, the Al Bedoo Shriners where he was a member of the brass band, served on the school board for School Districts 17H and 1 and participated in the Hardin Area Chamber of Commerce for many years.  Everett actively supported the Big Horn County Museum and for many years was a docent giving the most informative tours. He was proud of military service and was a member of the American Legion and into his late 80’s he served on the burial honor guard.  

He is preceded in death by his wife, Bea, his sisters Inez Bullis, Helen Scott; his brothers Ed, M.L. “Vern” and Lowell Bullis.

He is survived by his son, Terry (Punki) Bullis; his daughters Carol (William T.) Rhoads of Butte and Linda (Mark) Schriber of Gillette, Wyoming; his sisters-in-law Jean Hassler of Lewistown and Fran Zelenka of Helena; his  grandchildren Kristi (Patrick) Greenfield of Hardin, Kent (Jenn) Bullis of Rutherford, NJ; Sarah Rhoads of Shoreline, WA, Allison (Brandon) Sutton of Poulsbo, WA, Kellie (Travis) Newton of Vancouver, WA, Janna Schriber (Patrick Mason) of Minneapolis, MN, and Kaycee Schriber of Billings; great grandchildren Jonathan Bazinet, Hunter and Ty Greenfield, Elliott and Addison Bullis and Reece, Sloan and Averie Newton, Rosie and Porter Sutton; and great great grandson Rhett Greenfield; numerous nieces and nephews.  A special thank you to the care givers at Big Horn Senior Living and nursing and medical staff at the Big Horn Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Monday, November 25th at the Bullis Funeral Chapel. Interment with military honors will follow at the Hardin Fairview Cemetery with a reception following at the Bullis Family Center.  Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Big Horn County Historical Museum, 1163 3rd St. E, Hardin or the Big Horn County Council Aging Meals Fund 317 N. Center Ave., Hardin or to a charity of one’s choice.  Bullis Mortuary is entrusted with the arrangements.

John Joseph Michelotti, 64, of Billings, passed away Monday afternoon, Nov. 18, 2019, surrounded by his family.

John was born on Feb. 4, 1955, in Billings. He attended military high school at Marmion Academy outside of Chicago. Following his graduation from high school, he attended the University of San Diego and obtained his Mortuary Science degree in Los Angeles. In 1976, John returned to Billings to continue the legacy of the funeral home started by his father and John Sawyers.

In 1998, John served as President of Selected Independent Funeral Homes. He played a vital role in opening the door for funeral directors of all races, nationalities and countries. Later that year, he opened Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park. A statue and kidney-shaped pond were built to commemorate his father, who passed away from kidney disease shortly after opening.

From Kamchatka, Russia, to Nunavut, Canada, John immersed himself in local cultures and religions while pursuing his true passion of hunting. His motto was: “Don’t surround yourself with yourself.” John cherished time spent with family and friends at his cabin just outside of Glacier National Park. He enjoyed photography, golf, playing pool, classic rock and cheering on the Boston Bruins. And he was always down for a good banter!

John was preceded in death by his father, Bob. He is survived by his mother, Helen; brother, Jock (Connie); children, Ali and Seve, and Alida and Ceci; the love of his life, Alison; and his dog, Lucca.

The vigil will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. Funeral mass will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, at St. Pius X Church, 717 18th St. West, followed by a burial at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

Condolences may be made at www.michelottisawyers.com.

HERMOSA | Jane Mary Roggenbuck Rausch, 93, died Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, at her home near Hermosa.

Jane was born Aug. 11, 1926, on a farm in Lac Qui Parle County, MN, to Frank and Julia (Schmieg) Roggenbuck, the third of six children. She was an adventurous soul and loved to climb and swing high.

Jane and Herman C. Rausch married on June 19, 1947. To this union 12 children were born: Julia Archer, Theresa (John) Victory, Charles (Theresa), Arthur (Marilyn), Mary (Lorin) Brass, Fredrick, Virginia (Steven) Jorgensen, Joseph (Theresa Scholz), Martin (Janie), Margaret (Keith) Gilsdorf, John (Annette Walstad), and Stacie (Tim) Wick.

Jane and Herman lived in Big Stone City, SD, until 1961, when they moved to Rapid City with the first eight children. Jane was active in various church organizations and worked in the office for Herman as well as taking care of the household. She was an accomplished seamstress and crochet artist. Jane started making quilts after moving to Hermosa in 1979. She sold her creative sewing at bazaars and craft fairs and frequently donated quilts. Jane won ribbons at multiple Custer County and Central States fairs. She was a voracious reader, loved poetry, and often spontaneously recited poems. She enjoyed assembling puzzles and was an excellent Scrabble player, continuing to trounce opponents through her 80s. Jane was a devout and active member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Hermosa.

Jane was preceded in death by Herman, her husband of 67 years, and is survived by her 12 children; 30 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Frances Haas, Marilyn Ketchum, Sr. Rose Mae Rausch, OSF, Shanti Rausch, Josie (George) Vania; brother-in-law, Paul (Liane) Rausch; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Her smile and presence will be sorely missed by family and friends.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, at St. Michael Catholic Church, with a Christian Wake Service at 7 p.m.

Christian Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 31, at the church, with Rev. Michel Mulloy presiding. Interment will be at Highland Park Cemetery.

Russell Vernon Salisbury

1939 – 2019

Russ favored green, but the life of this remarkable man is a portrait in full color!

Russell Vernon Salisbury was born in Great Falls on July 26, 1939 to Ralph and Verneva (Lewis) Salisbury. On February 10, 2019, he died refusing to follow the doctors’ orders, being stubborn and coloring outside the lines for nearly eight decades. Russ met death as he lived; on his own terms along the banks of the Missouri River in the golden pastures of Floweree that captivated him.

As a certified organic farmer and rancher, Russ was a pioneer in the field and a champion for the Earth way before “being green” was cool. Countless individuals and organizations turned to Russ for his progressive thinking, proven techniques, guidance and generous support. For many, it was Russ who came along with a “Hatful of Peas”.

Russ’ true color was bold! A manly man, he delighted in wearing his favorite color purple for impact. He had the courage and strength to live out the extreme beliefs and ideals that others only talk about. His commitment to his word was his deeds. “Hard work and honesty are the only two things that matter in this life”.

Russ knew the value of even the most worn down, used up crayons in the bottom of the box. He collected things others considered useless envisioning a way they could be reused, repurposed or remade; the Kaiser car converted into a shop truck for Russ’ service station, the corral constructed out of old vehicles, the converted school bus hauling cattle down the highway with their heads hanging out the windows, and so much more!

Russ scribbled brightly wide and long. The master mechanic with an artistic flare was practical yet eccentric, complex yet simple, thrifty yet generous. He struggled to express what was on his mind and in his heart, but his hands and feet spoke loudly. His strong, grease stained hands designed whimsical metal sculptures, made every machine “go”, and easily tossed 55-gallon drums. Those same hands held on ever so lightly as his fancy feet glided effortlessly and famously across the dance floor. Ladies stood in line for a twirl with Russ!

Beneath the surface of all that Russ planted in his life lays a deeply rooted, vibrantly colored legacy.  Russ is survived by the land which was the love of his life; wife, Elsie Tuss; brother, Kirby (Tina) Salisbury of Belize, Central America; sons, Shane (Ann) Salisbury of Billings and Todd Salisbury of Carter; grandchildren, Damon Salisbury of Casper, WY, Cory Salisbury of Mesa, AZ, Castle and Sophia Salisbury of Billings; niece, Christie Juarez; nephew, Scott Salisbury; and a varied assortment of colorful characters.

Russ requested no service. We honor his request but cannot deny our loss and wish to remember Russ. We welcome your condolences, thoughts and memories. Please, send them to 717 Agate Avenue, Billings, MT 59105.

Dr. Seuss said it best, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?”

John “Bernard” Dahl, 93 of Billings died November 21, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. 
Bernard was born February 28, 1925 in Rhame, North Dakota to Danish immigrant Emil and Irish homesteader Alice (Kane) Dahl.

Bernard was the youngest of five children. Bernard and his family spent his early years in Rhame and moved to Bozeman, MT in 1939. He graduated from Holy Rosary High School. He was one of four siblings that served in the US military in WWII. His gold star mother Alice christened the USS Bozeman. His brother staff sergeant Raymond was shot down over Germany and killed in 1941. His brother Eldon was a POW In Italy. Sister Mary served in the Pacific at Iwo Jima.

Dahl was a graduate of Columbia University Midshipman School in New York, New York. He was a three-year veteran of World War II, having served as a gunnery officer on the USS Tumult minesweeper in the Pacific. He was a lieutenant junior grade in the U.S. Naval Reserve.
After WWII, he attended Carroll College, Marquette University and Montana State. He had degrees in biology and bacteriology.

July 6, 1950, he married Mary M’Lis Eaton and moved to San Francisco for Mortuary Science college. He then returned to the family funeral business in Bozeman and had Mary, Teresa and Ann Denise. They moved to Helena and had Linda. They established Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings in 1956. 

In Billings, they had their first and only son John . This was followed by Anita, Irene and Deana. 

Bernard was a member of Holy Rosary Church and St Patrick’s Co-Cathedral. He was a Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. His faith was precious to him and an example to his family and friends.

As a funeral director, he was a member of the order of the Golden Rule and National Funeral Directors Association and past president of the Montana Funeral Directors Association. He served as county coroner. He was President of the Catholic Ministry to the Bereaved. 
His life’s work was compassionately caring for families in bereavement. He was on the board of hospice and brought many nationally known grief specialists to Billings. His deep care and commitment to families evolved into grief ministries including Stephen Ministries, Association of Christian Therapists and Hospice. 

Bernard’s favorite hobbies included photography, travel, cooking, camping and snowmobiling. 
He loved presenting slide shows on the Holy Land to churches and schools. He loved taking visitors and family out on his pontoon boat on the Big Horn. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Eldon, Vera Jensen, Raymond and Mary Jorgensen and two grandchildren Marion Rose Stroebe and Simon Dahl Reinhart. 

Bernard was so grateful for his wife M’Lis, of 68 years, his eight children, 24 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren: 

(1) Mary (Mike) Cater and their family: Sara (Zach) Clark and children (Maya, Nora, Caleb); Joseph (Kristen) Cater and kids (Jane, Alice, Thomas);

(2) Teresa (Conrad) Stroebe and children: Marie Taylor and kids (River, Cash); Raymond Stroebe and children (Brianna, Erica, James, Spencer); Beth (Justin) Gress and children (Lincoln, Miles); Emily (Brian) Edwards; Frank Stroebe; Marion Rose; Genevieve Burhans and child (Elise); Hannah (Travis) Hutchinson; Chalice Stroebe; and Xavier Stroebe; 

(3) Ann Denise Dahl and children: Holland Davis, Jens (Bridgett) Davis and child (Porter); 

(4) Linda (Dale) Reinhart and kids: Michele (Bill) Levine and children (Kate, Grace); Simon; and
Sean;

(5) John (Brenda) Dahl;

(6) Anita (Reese) Jones and kids: Dan; Brielle (Earl) Platt and child (Sienna); Erin (Richard) Hall and child (Braeden); Marina; and Ula; 

(7) Irene (Mark Peterson) Dahl;

(8) Deana (Dave Wendell) Dahl and children (Eileen and John). 

Visitation will be held Sunday and Monday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings. A vigil service will be held at 6:00 PM on Monday, November 26, 2018, at Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings. The funeral mass will be held at noon on Tuesday, November 27, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral. 

The Graveside Committal service will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday at Sunset Hills Cemetery in Bozeman. (Please meet at Dahl Funeral and Cremation Service in Bozeman at 10:30 AM to process together to the cemetery.)

Memorials may be made in Bernard’s name to St. Vincent De Paul, 3005 First Ave. North, Billings, MT 59101 or the Alice Kane Dahl Nursing Scholarship at Montana State University, c/o the MSU Foundation, 1501 S. 11th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59717.
 

Lee Jewell Obituary –

Leighton Arthur “Lee” Jewell, 64, died Tuesday, October 20, 2020, at Powell County Memorial Hospital.

He was born March 6, 1956, in Butte, Montana, to Clayton and Marguerite Jewell, a birthday present to his mother.

The family moved to Deer Lodge in 1964. He was educated in Deer Lodge schools, graduating from PCHS in 1974.

Lee attended Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, graduating with a degree in Mortuary Science. He then joined the family business, Jewell Funeral Home, in Deer Lodge, with his father and brother-in-law.

Lee and Joy Hamilton were married May 19, 1979, and later divorced. Together they had three children: Stephanie, Stuart, and John. Lee was very active in the Deer Lodge Community. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council 1810 in Deer Lodge, serving as funeral secretary for many years, a 4th Degree member of Thomas Francis Meagher Council #585 in Anaconda. Other involvements included the Rialto Theater, Powell County Progress, Trustee of School District #1, and presently Chair of Powell County Medical Center. Lee was elected Powell County Coroner in the 2014 general election after serving as Deputy Coroner for 26 years.

Survivors include his daughter, Stephanie; grandsons, Oscar and Otto; son, Stuart (Erin); grandchildren, Tristan, Jerrika, Alex, Kaiden, and Emily; son, John; grandson, Jason; sister and brother-in-law, Cecilia “Cele” and John Pohle; nephew, Greg Pohle; and family in Billings.

A visitation with viewing will be held from 12 PM to 5 PM on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at Jewell Funeral Home, 601 Missouri Ave, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, October 26, 2020, at Hillcrest Cemetery, on West Milwaukee Avenue. After the burial, a celebration of his life will be held at The Pen, 1106 Main Street in Deer Lodge.

In honor of Lee Jewell, memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice.

Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Lee. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Lee and his family.