Marian Adele (Ryan) Davey
Our loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend left this life to be with our Lord on June 10, 2008.
Marian was born April 25, 1921 in Helena, MT to Francis and Jane Ryan and was the fifth of six children. She was the loving wife of Joe for 57 years, devoted mother to sons Joe of San Diego and Ryan of San Antonio, TX and daughters Jane Ridenour (Steve) and Helen Roman (Andy), both of Carmichael, CA. She was the adoring grandmother of Tiffany, Kyle and Natalie Ridenour, Janine and Kaitlin Davey, and Molly and Teresa Roman. Marian also leaves behind her loving sister, Helen McCarthy of Helena, MT sister-in-law Marjorie Davey of Vashon Island, WA and many nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved.
Marian was raised on the family’s 5000 acre cattle ranch in the Boulder Valley. Grandparents Ed and Lacey Ryan were among the first settlers in the Boulder Valley in 1864. She spent her days working the ranch with her two older brothers and three sisters, caring for their widowed father. She enlisted in the US Army during WWII and served for a time in Shanghai, China rising from Private to 1st Sergeant in less than a year. After the war she worked for a large building contractor. The work took her to Arco, ID where she met and married Joe. Their early married years kept them moving around the country until they were transferred to California’s Bay Area where they started their family, ultimately moving to Carmichael in the mid 60s.
Marian was passionate about all things Irish, Catholic and Democrat, never missing an opportunity to debate any of these issues. She was a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish for over 40 years. She gave her time and energy to the parish having served as President of the Ladies Council twice. She tirelessly attended to the care and keep of the church and sanctuary, as well as the upkeep of the altar linens, garments and vestments for over 30 years. She was a member of the All Saints Mr. & Mrs. Club. She devoted her time to the local Catholic high schools where her children attended and was behind the scenes at Jesuits’ annual “Spring Fling” where she ran the food and beverage snack bar for many years. She was a wonderful friend to many, she adored children and believed and championed for the underdog. We will miss her spirited political debates, her warm family stories and her quick-witted remarks.
A vigil was conducted on Monday, June 16, 2008 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Carmichael, CA. A mass of Christian Burial followed on Tuesday, June 17, 2008.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Vincent DePaul’s Food Locker (OLA Parish), the OLA Parish School or a charity of your choice.
Allen Boswell
Allen "Boz" Boswell, age 67, of Basin passed away June 14, 2008 at his home in Basin.
He was born April 21, 1941 at Deer Lodge, Montana to Arthur and Barbara (Applegate) Boswell. He was raised in Washington and Oregon and later served in the Army during Vietnam. Allen worked as a truck driver, at a saw mill, as a cook, and later as a caregiver for the State of Montana at Warm Springs, the State Prison, Galen, and at Montana Developmental Center at Boulder.
Allen loved fishing on the Big Hole River.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife Kay Boswell of Basin; children Michael, Andrew, Gregory, and Barbara Boswell; numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and brother Carl and Edie Boswell of Tillamock, Oregon. Also surviving are his friends the Colombe family and the May family.
Memorials are preferred to the Basin Community Hall or the Huntsman Cancer Research Center at the University of Salt Lake.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, July 19, from noon to 3 p.m. from the Basin Community Hall.
K&L Mortuaries & Crematory of Boulder in charge of arrangements.
Janet Nemacheck Altman Dougherty
Janet Nemacheck Altman Dougherty died Friday, June 13, 2008 in Clancy, Montana.
She was born exactly 96 years earlier on another Friday the 13th, October 13, 1912 in jail, in Eagle River, Wisconsin. Her father, J. T. Nemacheck, was the sheriff there, so the family lived in the front of the jail, explaining the birthplace. The fifth of six daughters to J. T. Nemacheck and Helena Persohn Nemacheck, she joined a lively bunch of sisters full of fun. They were avid bridge and pinochle players and could cut a good Charleston well into old age. Janet maintained her sense of humor her entire life.
Her father was appointed to the State Highway commission so the family moved to Madison, WI where Janet graduated at the head of her class from Wisconsin High School at age 16, and went on to study elementary education at Milwaukee State Teachers College. She was playing tennis when a young fellow student on the adjacent court playfully stole her hat. He was Harry Altman and they were married in 1933 in Milwaukee. They had three children and lived in the Milwaukee area and San Mateo, CA where Harry worked as a hospital administrator until his death at age 54 of a heart attack.
Janet went back to college, studying modern math and history, and worked as a substitute teacher. She married Edgar Dougherty in 1968 in San Mateo, CA. After his death, she came to visit her daughter in Montana and fell in love with the Big Sky. She bought a 100-year-old brick home in Boulder, which she enjoyed renovating and was an active member of the Boulder Senior Citizens community.
She enjoyed traveling to Canada, Cuba, Europe, Hawaii and the Caribbean Islands with her husbands and as a widower with a friend. Her love of animals often took her off the beaten path on road trips which made wonderful stories. She was a member of the Boulder Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the Order of Eastern Star, Miriam Chapter.
Janet moved to Hunter’s Pointe in 1998 where she enjoyed good years; first with her mini-Schnauzer Willie and then Bootsie her cat. She and Bootsie moved to Elkhorn Rehabilitation August 2002.
Janet will be greatly missed by her children and their spouses: Lynn (Altman) and Jud Foreman of Ennis, MT, Bruce and Barbara Altman of Palm Desert, CA, Nancy (Altman) Daniels and her partner Ingelise Holst of Boulder, as well as six grandsons and their families, six great-grandsons, three great-granddaughters and one great-great-grandson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families, and her faithful Bootsie.
A family memorial will be held in San Mateo, CA; Janet will rest beside Harry.
The family extends gratitude and thanks to the loving care she received at Elkhorn and suggests donations may be made in Janet’s name to the Lewis and Clark Animal Shelter.
Wanda Bartholow
A truly great lady left our lives May 13 in Saratoga, California, but will remain forever in our hearts.
Wanda Williams Glass Bartholow was born May 22, 1919 to Ruth Mountjoy Williams and Sheriff John Williams of Boulder, Montana. She was a joy to all who knew her from the first moment she graced this earth and accomplished great things while here.
Her early years were spent in Boulder among devoted family where legendary camping trips were taken, declamation contests won, basketball games played and a detective agency started with best friend Martha Ripley. She attended Boulder Grade School and Jefferson High, graduating in 1937. She got her undergraduate degree from University of Montana, a Master’s in Psychiatric Social Work from the University of Denver and a second Master’s degree from the University of Montana in Education.
With her gift for guiding and counseling, it was natural that she started the first Mental Health Clinic in Butte. She then went on to become the Associate Dean of Students at Northern Montana College in Havre and then on to counsel countless college students at the College of Marin in Kentfield, California.
She married her high school sweetheart John Sherbrook Glass in 1942. Lt. John Glass was killed in 1943 while on a military training flight near Mesa, Arizona.
She later met and married John Bartholow while living in the San Francisco Bay area and together they enjoyed many years at a home they built in Tiburon, overlooking the San Francisco Bay.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, sister Ducky (Doris) Burke, and special brother-in-law Ed Slusher. She is survived by her beloved daughter Nancy and husband Steve Sullivan of Saratoga, California, brother Carter Williams of Great Falls, sister Nan Slusher of Helena and Texas, sister-in-law Nevada Robertson of Helena and several nieces, nephews and legions of friends.
She accomplished great things in her life, made a difference to many, and was loved deeply by her family. Perhaps her greatest legacy was her unfailing sense of humor.
In keeping with the person she was, she would want each of you to do a kindness for someone else. That would honor her memory most.
William Roger "Bill" Shoquist
William "Bill" Roger Shoquist, 78, of Boulder and Yuma, Ariz., passed away May 12, 2008, at St. Peter's Hospital in Helena after a courageous battle with lymphoma.
Bill was born on December 31, 1929, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the youngest child of Richard Algot Shoquist and Ruth Haukensen. He moved with his family to Clancy in 1944, graduating from Helena High School in 1947.
Bill met the love of his life, Nellie Barry, at a dance in Basin. After a brief courtship, they married on June 14, 1947. With the help of his father, Bill built the first of many homes for his family. For the next 10 years, Clancy was their home and he worked for the Clancy School District.
In 1958, the Shoquist clan, which now numbered six, moved to Boulder. Bill first worked at Roy Bell Texaco, then began his career with the Boulder River School and Hospital (now known as the Montana Development Center). Bill retired from his position as carpenter from Boulder River School in 1973. Bill and Nellie spent almost every winter since that time in Yuma, returning to Montana to enjoy the beautiful summers. Coming back to Montana also gave Bill opportunities to go fishing with his sons, brother and nephew, along with special outings with his good friends and neighbors in Boulder.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents; his son Dale; and his sisters Doris, Marion, Dorothy and Marjorie. He is survived by his wife Nellie; daughter Lynn Moon of Kalispell; sons Mark Shoquist and wife Jerrine of Boulder and Scott Shoquist of Helena; brother Donald Shoquist and wife Rosalie of Helena; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law; nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service was held at the First Baptist Church of Boulder at 2 p.m. Friday, May 16, with fellowship following. Masonic services were at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Retz Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Shiners' Hospital, P.O. Box 2472, Spokane, WA 99210.
George A. Bullock
George A. Bullock, born October 13, 1928, died in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on May 11, 2008, from an illness. He is survived by his son Scott, Scott's wife, Janet, and their three children Matthew, Steven and Lindsay. He is also survived by one sister: Gert Mysliwski of Rocklin, California. George was preceded in death by his wife Ramona and his other son Steven.
Phillip DeMers
On April 21, 2008 at the age 80, Phillip Neil DeMers (The Red Lion) of Wickes, Montana, passed away at home with his family by his side. Red left behind his legacy of respect, hard work, and love of everyone that was fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
His passion for life and "getting it done" was a tribute to his lifestyle, whether it was his fishing, hunting or work ethics or his family and friends. He loved what he did and did it well. His personable charm warmed the hearts of everyone he met and knew. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren all loved him.
Red was born February 13, 1928 to Fred and Louise DeMers. He worked in his earlier years as a logger, a miner and laborer, spending most of his working years as an iron worker.
Red was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Louise; daughters: Phyllis and Sandy; brothers: Nick, Ray, Ronald and Harold; and sister, Ruby.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Donna, and their children and families as follows: son, George DeMers; grandchildren: Bridger and Tizer and Katy; great-grandchildren: Alex, Brandon, and Meeka; daughter: Debbie (husband Ken) Schmaus; grandchildren: Heather, George, Tiffany (husband Jesse) and Shane; great-grandchildren: Ardaya, Jayden, Michael and Ariana; son: Mike (wife Virginia) DeMers; grandchildren: Brittany (husband Greg), Brooks (husband Justin) and Brandy; great-grandchildren: Brailynn, Dominick, Christian, Gabrial and Kylar; son: Dan DeMers; grandchildren: Trapper, Hunter and McKenzie, Miranda (husband Chaz) and Winter; great-grandchild: Kaden; son: Phillip DeMers; son: Banner (wife Jodi) DeMers; grandchildren: Andy, Tyrel, Talon; daughter: Brenda DeMers Rathbone (husband Brian); grandchildren: Brianna and Kylie; sisters: Deannie Ramey and Dolly McCurley.
He also is survived by many nieces, nephews and friends, all of whom he loved very much.
Our deepest thanks to everyone who brought food, flowers and loving support to Red's home during our time of need. Red has moved on from this hunting ground to the next.
Services were scheduled at 11 a.m., Monday, April 28 at the First Assembly of God Church with Pastor Rick Grieve officiating. Cremation has taken place. Memorials in Red's name may be sent to that of donor's choice. Local arrangements have been entrusted to Hagler-Anderson Funeral Home.
Ed Sheehan
Edward V. Sheehan, beloved husband, father and grandfather went to be with the Lord on April 9, 2008 after an extended illness that he valiantly fought. Ed will forever be remembered for his sense of humor, passion for sports and love for his family and his dogs.
He was born on August 5, 1952 to Ed and Mary Sheehan of Butte, Montana. He graduated from Butte HIgh in 1970. From there he moved to Boulder, Montana where he worked for many years at Montana Developmental Center. It was during this time that Ed met the love and soul mate of his life, Alice Lorraine Lobdell. They were married on June 17, 1973 and spent every day of nearly 35 years of their lives together.
Sports played a vital role in Ed’s life. He happily enjoyed coaching Little League baseball in Boulder for many years. Much of his time was devoted to running and playing fantasy football and baseball. He dearly loved the New York Yankees and the Green Bay Packers and spent many of his days watching the games on TV. His most cherished memories were his trip to New York to watch a live Yankees’ game and his most recent trip to see the Brett Favre Green Bay Packers.
Ed also enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife Alice Sheehan of Boulder; his sons Adam Sheehan and Brody Sheehan, both of Helena; his three sisters: Alice Ryan of Butte, Colleen O’Brien of Billings, and Rose Briney of Henderson, Nevada; his grandchildren: Troy and Tanner Sheehan of Helena, Alexia Sheehan of Missoula, and Brendyn Sheehan of Helena; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held at the K&L Mortuary in Boulder on Friday, April 11 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at St. Catherine’s Parish also in Boulder on Saturday, April 12 at 1:00 p.m. with a reception following the service.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the American Lung Association.
Tim Ford
Timothy James Ford, 52, of Boulder, passed away unexpectedly early Sunday morning, April 6th at St. Peter's Hospital. He was born July 13, 1955, in Helena, to Charles and Beverly Ford and would be the sixth of twelve siblings.
Tim grew up between Plainview, MN and Boulder, attending Boulder Elementary and Jefferson High. On March 24, 1979 he married the love of his life, Jeanine Christensen. They were blessed with two children, Jeff and Carrie. He was so proud of his kids and had looked forward to watching them having families of their own; Carrie married Justin Clement in 2006 and Jeff married Pamela Knight in 2007 and blessed them with their first grandson, Clinton. A prouder father and grandpa the world will not see.
He was preceded in death by his father, Chuck Ford and in-laws, George and Elvena Christensen.
Tim worked as a truck driver for the Montana Department of Transportation since 1988. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church and served as congregational President.
He will be so deeply missed by his soulmate and wife, Jeanine; son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Pamela Ford and son Clinton of Dell; daughter and son-in-law Carrie and Justin Clement, Helena; mother Beverly Ford, Boulder; sisters and their families: Maureen (Tom) Dawson, Boulder; Mary (John) Curtis, Denver, CO; Char (Ron) Aasheim, Helena; Carol (Ben) Olmstead, Helena; Janet (Craig) Holland, Ione, OR; Julie Ford, Helena; Karen (Jack) Austin, Miles City; brothers and their families: Pat (Connie) Ford, Helena; Mike Ford, Buffalo, WY; Dennis Ford, Helena; John Ford, Helena; sisters-in-law and their families: Janet Bowen, Estacada, OR; Dorothy Christensen, Deer Lodge; Janelle (Bill) Shink, St. Maries, ID; Joanne (Vern) Cornell, Grand Junction, CO; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Services will be officiated by Pastor Gale Everson and held at the Catholic Center in Boulder on Friday, April 11th at 2 p.m. Interment will follow the service at the Boulder Cemetery.
Lowell Johnston
Lowell (Charles) Johnston, 90, of Boulder, Montana, passed away peacefully with family at his side on Thursday, March 26, 2008 after a brief illness. Lowell was a member of the Boulder United Methodist Church, American Legion Post 46, and was a 32nd degree Mason. He had traveled extensively in North America, Europe and parts of Asia.
Born 1917 near Mt. Victory, Ohio to Fannie and Harley Johnston, Lowell grew up on a farm doing chores and going to school. He graduated from Mr. Victory High School in 1936 after serving as class secretary. He held several construction jobs before moving to Galesburg, Illinois where he was employed as a machinist at the Rock Island Arsenal. Lowell enlisted in the Navy and saw World War II as a member of the 110th Construction Battalion (CBs) traveling to Hawaii, the Eniwetok Atolls, Sipan, Tinian and other theaters in the Pacific.
Following his discharge at the end of the war Lowell married Louise Peterson of Oquawka, Illinois and they briefly lived in Rock Island, Illinois and Pomona, California before returning to Alpha, Illinois. Lowell sold beauty supplies on the road for several years and the family moved again to Davenport, Iowa. In Davenport Lowell joined the Miller Beauty Supply Co. again as a salesman and soon opened a local store for the company. After a short time he was moved to the company headquarters in Burlington, Iowa and became the General Manager. During his years with the Miller Co., they opened another six stores in three states. Lowell retired twice, first in 1974 from managerial office work moving to Boulder Montana to build his current home near one of his sons. His second retirement occurred in 1979 after building his current house and then managing the Boulder State Liquor store for several years.
In the years following he traveled to visit family and friends, and was a caregiver for his wife and others. His wife Louise of 41 years; brother the Reverend John Johnston of Elk Grove, California; and brother Robert Johnston of Mt. Victory, Ohio preceded him in death.
He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Betty of Albany, Oregon; son and daughter-in-law, John and Myrtle of Boulder; his sister and brother-in-law, Annabelle and Maynard Penhorwood of Hamilton, Ohio; sister-in-law Lela Johnston of Elk Grove, California; and sister-in-law Louise Johnston of Kenton, Ohio; as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Visitation will be at the Boulder UMC, 120 West Centennial, Tuesday between 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Services will be at 10:00 Wednesday. Following interment in Boulder, a luncheon will be served at the church. Memorials may be sent to the American Legion Post 46, P.O. Box 346, Boulder, MT 59632 or the Boulder United Methodist Church, Box 389, of Boulder, MT 59632.
George Battershell
George Richard Battershell, 80, of Clancy, died Easter Sunday, March 23, at St. Peter’s Hospital of natural causes.
George was born in Clancy on August 22, 1927 to Leroy and Dorothy Alderson Battershell.
He was educated in Clancy and graduated from Jefferson High School as president of his class. He took various correspondence courses in radio/TV repair and locksmithing to further his education. George also honorably served in the US Army in occupied Germany.
George and Shirley Irene Ross were married July 1, 1955, in Clancy and they spent the next 53 years together. Together they were foster parents to many infants from their birth until they were placed into their adoptive homes and some older children whose parents were unable to care for them.
George was Clancy’s postmaster for over 40 years, greeting everyone by name. There was a gathering every morning after the mail was distributed at the post office, where everyone shared the news of the day. Many people’s day was incomplete unless they had stopped to chat with George.
He was very civic minded. He retired from the Clancy Volunteer Fire Department where he was instrumental in its incorporation and securing a retirement plan for the members. He was clerk of the school board and did all the dealings for securing the land for the present school and the construction of the old gym and the King building, and moving the Claisoil School to Clancy, which is now the “For Kids Only” daycare.
Starting as a small child, he was involved in the Clancy United Methodist Church, from building the coal fires in the winter to helping to construct the two additions. He also assisted with the annual flea market and ice cream stand that he dubbed "Clancy Fleas and Cream" which raised funds for the Wednesday church school.
In the earlier days while running the post office, he had a small store and also repaired radios, TV’s and many other appliances. He had the first TV in Clancy and later the first cable TV system to which many neighbors were wired. Very generous with his time, George took every opportunity to serve. Whenever anyone needed something, from figuring income taxes, shoveling snow, helping to get an elderly person up that had fallen down or to being a pall bearer, he was called upon and was rewarded for his services with a batch of cinnamon rolls, divinity or some other treat.
He was a very active member of the community, whether it was his role as community counselor over the counter of the post office or wiring and helping build houses in his spare time. George was always looked upon as a cornerstone of this community and he will be sorely missed.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his brother Leroy. He is survived by his wife Shirley, son Ross, and grandson Dillon Battershell, all of Clancy, his daughter Lisa and grandson Carson Gault of Houston, Texas, sister Evelyn Schlichtig of Canyon Country, California, brother Bill (Jean) Battershell of Richland Washington, as well as brothers Tom (Louise) Battershell and Art Battershell, both of Helena, and many nieces and nephews.
Military, Masonic service by Boulder-Basin Lodge # 41 A.F. & A. M. and Methodist graveside services will be held Friday, April 4th at 11a.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. A reception will follow immediately at Clancy United Methodist Church, 6 North Main.
Memorial contributions may be made in George’s name to the Clancy United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 30, Clancy, MT 59634, or a fund of donor’s choice.
Hagler-Anderson Funeral Home was entrusted with local arrangements.
Leone Ohnstad
The funeral service for Leone Ohnstad will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 27, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 5 South Main, in Clancy, with Pastors I. C. Gronneberg and Lynn DeYoung officiating. Memorials may be sent in Leone’s name to the All Saints Lutheran Church, PO Box 98, Clancy, MT 59634 or to that of donor’s choice. Local arrangements have been entrusted to Hagler-Anderson Funeral Home.
Harry and Alma Nyberg were thrilled on October 10, 1917, when their newborn daughter, Leone, joined them and their 3-year-old, Hildegarde, on their farm north of Ray, North Dakota.
On December 16, they hitched-up the horses and braved the elements for the mile and a quarter ride to Rainbow Valley Lutheran Church to celebrate her baptism and birth into the family of God. She grew up a farm girl, working and playing with her parents and sister, and after a couple years, a new sister, Ardell.
On July 31, 1932, she was confirmed in her faith in the Lord. She attended a county school near the church and later high school in Ray, graduating as salutatorian. Waiting in a café in Ray, she met a couple of wise men from the East, one of whom became the love of her life.
She and Erick A. Ohnstad were married on December 2, 1937, and moved East to Petersburg (North Dakota) where they began their married life. They decided not to be farmers and Erick became a mechanic, as they began their family. They were blessed with two children, Bob and Myrna. As the years went by they moved to Devil’s Lake, then immigrated to Helena. Even moved for a few months to Seattle. One day it quit raining a few minutes and they threw their belongings in a trailer, and headed back to Helena. Lesson learned? You can move too far West.
Other than a four-year move to Forsyth, they spent the rest of their years in Helena and Clancy and loved it. As the children grew, Leone decided to work outside the home as well. She picked potatoes in the Valley, worked for Eddy’s Bakery SFN, clerked at Coast to Coast and worked for the State of Montana in the Bureau of Records and Statistics, retiring in 1979.
Those who knew her sense of humor, quick wit, quiet smile and loving care certainly understand her love of life, her grasp of grace, and her capacity to survive. Preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Hildegarde Anderson and Ardell Daniel, and son-in-law, Bob Rudio; she is survived by her son Bob and daughter Myrna (Rudio) of Clancy, grandchildren Arik (Jenni) Ohnstad of Nashville, Tennessee, Kjerstin Ohnstad of Minneapolis, Karen (Rudio) Ditchey, Mark Rudio, Pam (Rudio) Novak, all of Clancy; six great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Lillian Warren
Lillian Warren, age 94, of Boulder, Montana passed away March 22, 2008 at Helena, Montana.
Lillian was born October 10, 1913 at Conrad, Montana to Paul and Anna (Sevik) Iverson. She was raised and attended school in Highwood, Montana. She married Tom McGuire and they later divorced. She then worked as a beautician. She later lived at Canyon Ferry and Boulder where she worked at the Boulder River School & Hospital.
She was always helpful to people.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Kenneth Iverson, and a sister Polly Davison.
Survivors include her sister Edith "Peggy" Jacobson of Helena, and nieces and nephews.
Graveside memorial services will be held Thursday at 2:00 p.m. from the Boulder Cemetery at Boulder, Montana.
K&L Mortuaries & Crematory of Boulder is in charge of arrangements.
Harold R. DeMers
Harold R. DeMers, age 84, of Whitehall and formerly of Boulder passed away suddenly Tuesday March 18, 2008 at St. James Healthcare at Butte.
Harold was born April 8, 1923 at Boulder, Montana. He spent a lot of his youth at Mammoth, Montana. He also lived all over the state, moving often with his father's work.
He married Alma Crawford January 17, 1942 at Boulder. She preceded him in death in 1999. After his marriage to Alma he worked logging around Boulder and then for the Montana State Highway Department until 1968.
In the late 1960s he became a deputy for the Jefferson County Sheriff's office and later served as Sheriff for Jefferson County for 2 terms. Harold was always involved in the law enforcement community, serving as a livestock brand inspector, and as a special deputy for the highway patrol, Montana fish & game, and the forest service. He also had a police canine dog named Kip that was very special.
After his wife Alma passed away he moved to Whitehall in May 2000 and he married Irene Henrich Buhl on June 7, 2000 at Couer d’ Alene, Idaho.
Harold enjoyed dancing, his horses, fishing with his kids and grandkids, hunting mountain lions, and snowmobiling. He loved to be in the mountains at his family's cabin and their yearly camp trips. Harold was well known for his storytelling. He loved his family.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife Alma, his brothers Nick, Ray, and Ronald, and his sister Ruby.
Survivors include his wife Irene Buhl DeMers of Whitehall; children Darlene Lawrence of Basin, Monty and Kathy DeMers of Wicks, Dennis and Sharon DeMers of Deer Lodge, Ed and Marilyn DeMers of Scottsdale, Arizona, Joe DeMers of Roy, Montana, Julie and Ted Kresge of Jefferson City, Betty and Lyle Jones of Boulder; stepchildren Leonard and Barbara Buhl of Whitehall, Larry Buhl of Seattle, Arlene Buhl of Whitehall, and Pam and Rich Smith of Whitehall; 30 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; his brother Phil DeMers; sisters Dolly McCearley and Deannie Ramey; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be sent to a charity of the donor's choice.
Memorial services were held Saturday, March 22, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. from the Trinity United Methodist Church at Whitehall with Rev. Dee Anna officiating.
K&L Mortuaries & Crematory of Whitehall was in charge of arrangements.
Darlene Marquis
Darlene Marquis of Boulder passed away Monday, March 3 at her home. She was born December 11, 1933, in Marysville, WA. In 1950, she married Bill Marquis at Nelscott, OR. Sadly, Bill recently died November 1, 2007. They were married for 57 years.
Mom was devoted to her family. Her life revolved around taking care of her husband and two sons. In a life filled with constant moving due to Dad’s construction career, Mom always provided a stable home life for her family.
Besides her family, Mom had two main passions: cooking and NFL football. She was very proud of her Grand Champion ribbons for cooking that she won at the Jefferson County Fair. Mom was also proud of her Green Bay Packers mementos. All who knew Mom learned quickly to never phone or stop by the house when a Packers game was on TV.
Many friends never knew her real name - she was simply known as “Ma.” Ma, Pa, and son Dave owned and ran the Norris Bar from 1976 to 1983. During that time, no bachelor or person in need went hungry. On holidays, she cooked enough to fee an army and even delivered plates when folks were unable to make their way to the bar. She had many friends and always had a quick comeback whenever anyone tried to give her a bad time.
She was very active through her husband with Algeria Shrine functions. She sewed clown costumes and always made sure Pa had handouts for the kids during parades and other functions.
Mom, thanks for always being there. You will be greatly missed.
Survivors include: Sons - Steve Marquis and his wife Peggy of Boulder, MT, and Dave Marquis and his wife Sandy of Sheridan, WY; Grandchildren - Matthew, Erin, Andrew, and Max; Extended family - Mike and Linda Woods of Utah, Danny and Tena Mays of Oregon, and Ken and Marsha Hayes of New Mexico.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2008 at K&L Mortuary, Boulder, MT.
Memorials may be made to the Algeria Shrine Transportation Fund, PO Box 1174, Helena, MT 59624 or to the Boulder-Basin Masonic Lodge #41 of Boulder Building Fund, c/o Dan Sturdevant, PO Box 275, Clancy, MT.
Francis “Saul” Stately
Francis “Saul” Stately, 31, of Boulder died January 19, 2008 after he was wounded in a confrontation with law enforcement.
Born August 25, 1976 in Townsend to Mike and Eve Stately, he graduated from high school in Nez Perce, Idaho in 1994. On June 24, 2000 he married Heather Simpson and in 2005 he moved with his wife and four children to Boulder. He held a job erecting cell phone towers with Hy-Lander Systems Tower Inc.
He is survived by his wife Heather; four children: Ashton 10, Draven 6, Takoda 4, and Caydence 2; his parents Mike and Eve Stately; sisters Katie, Amber, Emerald and Yauhna; brother Austin; his father-in-law Ron, mother-in-law Diane, brother-in-law Jeremiah, and sister-in-law Brandy; nieces and nephews; and friends.
A memorial service was scheduled for Tuesday, January 29 at 3 p.m. at the Retz Funeral Home Chapel in Helena.
Memorials may be sent to the Francis Stately Memorial Fund, c/o Helena Community Credit Union, 915 Kessler St., Helena, MT 59601.
Geraldine G. Boe
Geraldine G. Boe, age 82, of Whitehall passed away Sunday, January 6, at the Tobacco Root Mountain Care Center at Sheridan.
She was born February 22, 1925 at Alden, Minnesota to Manville and Jennie (Nelson) Fink. Geraldine was raised in Leroy, Minnesota. She married Vernon Boe July 17, 1945 at Leroy. They moved for a short time to California where they owned and operated a gas station. They returned to Minnesota for 10 years prior to moving to Wyoming. They then lived and ranched in Darby and then Waterloo. While ranching in Waterloo, Geraldine worked at the Children's Center in Twin Bridges. After the Children's Center closed she began working at the Boulder River School and Hospital in Boulder. After 17 years she retired as grounds supervisor. After retiring she continued to work home health care and later as a senior companion.
Geraldine loved her children and grandchildren. She followed her grandchildren as they participated in various sports. She enjoyed horse racing, gardening, yard work, raising chickens and turkeys, and painting. She was a wonderful baker.
Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her daughter Robin Boe.
Survivors include her children: Diane and Dan Weedmark of Seattle, Alan Boe of Whitehall, Marc Boe of Sheridan, MT, Kristie and Chuck Walker of Sheridan, WY, Holly and John Stratton of Whitehall, Becky Fellows of Sheridan, WY, and Teri and Mark Nelson of Whitehall; grandchildren: Dawna and Tawnia Weedmark, Steven Boe, Jason Boe, Gina Lewis, Gabe Boe, Courtney Boe, Megan Boe, Corey Balfanz, Joshua Balfanz, Derek Stratton, Daren Stratton, Justin Stratton, Robin Fellows, Nicelye Fellows, Logan Reiff, and Ty Nelson; great grandchildren: Cody Weedmark, Nathanial Rowen, Hannah Rowen, Lukas Balfanz, Karlie Balfanz, Teagan Balfanz, Michael Vernon Reiff, Jacob Lewis, and Zane Lewis.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 9 at 1:00 PM from the K&L Mortuary Chapel at Whitehall with Rev. Sandy Lanes officiating. Interment will be in the Sheridan Cemetery at Sheridan, Montana.
Irene A. Phillips
Irene A. Phillips, 80, of Helena, formerly of Boulder, MT, passed away peacefully with family at her side on December 30, 2007 at the Rocky Mountain Care Center in Helena, MT.
Irene was born to Irish immigrant parents in Columbus, MT on March 10, 1927. She married Sam Phillips in Harlowton, MT in 1956. Together they moved to Boulder, MT where Sam served for many years as the town's barber and Irene spent her career working at the then Boulder River School and Hospital. Irene's great love caring for individuals with disabilities made her a favorite with the school's residents.
Sam and Irene were well known in the Boulder community where his proficency for hunting and gardening and hers for canning fruits and vegetables and sharing them with friends and relatives was legend. Sam and Irene spent many hours fishing, mushrooming and just plain visiting with friends in the Boulder area following her retirement.
Irene's greatest love was for her grandchildren and she spent many hours and days blessing them with her warm smiles, hugs and "have another bite" affections.
Irene is survived by her sister Marie Papez of Bridger, MT, sister-in-law Hanna Rouane of Columbus, MT, daughter Kathy (Don) Judge of Helena, MT, daughter-in-law Bobbi Phillips of Kalispell, MT, grandchildren Sam (Jen) Phillips of Kalispell, MT, Shelly (Mike) Tucker of Duvall, WA, Allison and Kevin Judge of Helena, MT and numerous favorite neices and nephews.
Irene was proceeded in death by her parents Patrick and Mary Rouane, husband Sam Phillips, stepson Marion 'Flip' Phillips, brothers John, Paul, Patrick 'PJ' and James Rouane and sisters, Angelina and Kathleen Rouane.
At her request, Irene's remains have been cremated under the direction of Retz Funeral Home. A memorial service was held for Irene on Saturday, January 5 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary's Church in Helena, MT. Burial will follow at a later date in Columbus, MT at the family's burial plots.
Bill Marquis
Bill E. Marquis passed away November 1, 2007 at his home in Boulder, Montana.
He was born July 27, 1925 at Sherwood, Oregon to William Marquis and Grace (Murdock) Marquis.
Dad always had the wanderlust. During World War II he served in the Merchant Marines, sailing all over the world. His sailing days came to an end when he got married and started a family. On June 3, 1950 he married Darlene Dimitroff at Nelscott, Oregon.
Dad was able to continue his traveling ways working construction. He was a welder, operating engineer and heavy duty mechanic most of his working life. He worked in Alaska, South America, West Africa and Iran. When not overseas Dad worked in Washington, Oregon, California and Montana.
From 1976 to 1983 mom and dad operated a small saloon in southwestern Montana at Norris. This was an experience they both remembered fondly.
Dad was very active in the Masonic Order. In October of 2007, he was awarded his 50 year pin. He was also a Shriner and a member of the Shrine Clowns. He was always easily recognized at parades as the clown with his monkey Sam. Dad was always very proud of his service to the community as a Mason and Shriner. He was a member of the Mount Jefferson Masonic Lodge #56 in Pony, Montana. He also belonged to the Boulder Basin Masonic Lodge #41 in Boulder, Montana. As a Shriner he belonged to the Algeria Shrine Temple in Helena.
Dad was a rugged construction worker but also a kind and gentle man. He had a deep love for his wife, two sons, and his grandchildren. We will miss you greatly, dad.
Survivors include his wife Darlene Marquis of Boulder; two sons and daughters-in-law: Steve and Peggy Marquis of Boulder and Dave and Sandy Marquis of Sheridan, Wyoming; brothers: Dale Marquis of Arizona and Frank Marquis of New Mexico; extended family Mike and Linda Woods of Utah, Marsha and Ken Hayes of New Mexico, and Tina and Danny Mays of Oregon; and grandchildren: Matthew, Erin, Andy, and Max.
Memorials are preferred to the Algeria Transportation Fund, PO Box 1174, Helena, MT 59624.
Funeral services will be held Monday, November 5, at 1:00 p.m. from the K&L Mortuary Chapel at Boulder with the Boulder Basin Masonic Lodge #41 conducting rites. Interment will follow in the Boulder Cemetery.
John Baerga
John Gerald Baerga, 62, Boulder, died October 19, 2007 in hospice care after suffering from myeleoplastic syndrome.
He was born July 6, 1945 in Bronx, New York. From 1963 to 1967 he served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam and then served in the Air Force from 1968 to 1985, spending time in Okinawa and England.
He and Patricia Gloria were married in Las Vegas in 1983.
After his military retirement, he earned a Bachelor’s of Psychology and a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He then worked as a county advocate for senior citizens and produced and ran a summer program for adaptive disabled children. Both programs were in Las Vegas.
His hobbies included woodworking, and he loved and was loved by children. He was a child at heart, ready to laugh and always willing to reach out with a helping hand.
He is survived by his wife Patricia; his “adopted sister and brother,” Kathleen Bennett and Edgar Bennett; sisters Carmen Pimentel and Betsaida Rivera of Florida; and brothers Jose Baerga of Florida and Robert Baerga of Virginia.
No services are planned. Cremation has taken place.
Betty Dietz
Betty Dietz, 73, of Boulder, died at the Clark Fork Valley long-term care facility in Plains, Montana peacefully.
She was born on September 1, 1934 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In 1952 she graduated from Catholic school and, having itchy feet, traveled all over the states.
On September 17, 1960, she married George Dietz. In 1966 they moved to Missoula, where George worked on ranches. Betty received an Associate in Child Development and worked at the Head Start program in Missoula.
In 1976 Betty moved to Boulder to be with her oldest daughter Jeannette and her grandchildren. She helped any way she could and worked at the Montana Developmental Center for many years. Finally, she decided to open up a flower and gift shop with oldest daughter Jeannette dressing as the pink gorilla delivering flowers.
She had many hobbies, but being a great grandmother and mother were her favorites.
Survivors include grandchildren Charisma and long time companion Jim Gill and their children James and Samantha of Boulder, MT; Christopher in Seattle, Washington; Roger and Beth and his two children Savonnah and Noah of Plains, MT.
We all knew her as Gram and will deeply miss her colored and passionate presence. Goodbye, Gram.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 3 beginning at 11 a.m. at the First Assembly of God in Boulder. The family invites everyone to stay and visit during a potluck following the service.
Gladys Colombe
Gladys K. Colombe, 67, Basin, passed away suddenly at St. James Health Care Center in Butte surrounded by her loving family.
She was born March 20, 1940 in Belcourt, North Dakota, daughter to Robert Patrick & Mary Madeline (Swain) Lenoir.
She was educated at the Marty Mission of South Dakota. She was in training of postulant to become a nun within the Catholic church. She left the convent in 1955, later marrying Milford E. Colombe on December 31, 1956.
She was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary of Great Falls. She belonged to the Glen Hens Ladies Auxiliary Glen, Montana.
She loved to hunt and fish and was at home in the great outdoors. Gladys was dedicated to her husband Mel of 50 years and to her family. She will be remembered as everyone’s mother.
She preceded in death by her daughter Katherine Carmailita Colombe, her sister Violet Gould, and her father Robert Patrick Lenoir.
She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Mel Colombe of Basin, MT, her mother Mary Hanson of Boulder, and her brother Ken (Judy) Lenoir of Plumber, ID
Also surviving are her daughter Jani Colombe and her husband Bill Brothers of Butte; James (Teresa Hunter) Colombe of Basin; Jon Colombe of Basin; Judi & Doug Collins of East Helena; Jackie Colombe of Basin; Julie (David) Lacer of Caldwell, ID; grandchildren: Russell & David Howald of Missouri; Aaron Rickey of Butte; Robin Tara and Brandon Colombe of White City, Oregon; Amy Scheeler and Amber Colombe of Colorado Springs, CO; Eric, Cathy and Mike Fletcher of Woodland, WA; Keva Aguire of Basin, MT; Walter and David Newbold of Caldwell, ID; along with ten great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.
Funeral services will be conducted 11 a.m. Saturday, October 20th at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church of Boulder with Fr. Bill Greytak as celebrant. A reception will immediately follow at The Basin Community Hall where friends may share in a celebration of Gladys’s life.
Kate Sievers, 93
Kathlyn Bernice (Kate) Sievers of Boulder passed away early Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena of natural causes.
Kathlyn was born to Max and Irene Schmid on July 19, 1914 in Valentine, Nebraska, so “you do the math”. She moved with her parents at about two weeks old to their homestead in the Bear Paw Mountains. She attended local schools and was the oldest of five siblings.
She married Edward “Ben” Wood and they had three daughters, Olive, Wava and Mary Ellen. She was widowed at a young age. She married Ted Varner, and they resided in the Chinook area until moving to Boulder in 1957 and opening the Varner Café and Hotel. Ted passed away in 1959. She married Walter Sievers in 1961, who she met while he was in Boulder visiting the health mines. They resided in the Boulder area and he passed away in 1972. Kathlyn went to work at the Montana Developmental Center in July of 1964 until retiring in March of 1981. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, gardening and visiting with family and friends. She was loved and respected by all who knew her. She had a great sense of humor throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant daughter Wava Mae Wood, her three husbands, her daughter Olive Ann Syth, her siblings, Max Schmid, Marie Gieser, Richard Schmid and Jessie Ray, her stepson Ronald Frank.
She is survived by her daughter, Mary (Gordon) Giulio of Boulder; her stepchildren: Douglas (Audrey) Frank of Billings, Ralph Sievers and family of Kalispell, Norma (Bruce) Armagast and family of Oregon, Barbara (Ted) Knight and family also of Oregon; her grandchildren: Kathryn Syth of Billings, Mary Kay (Dan) Kennedy of Ray, ND, Michael (Penny) Syth of Buckley, WA, John (Bonnie) Syth of Buckley, WA, Rusty (Kim) Giulio of Boulder, Bruce (Lisa) Giulio of Boulder, Steve (Tina) Giulio of Boulder, Sherri (Devon) Olson of Germany, Jennie (Troy) Wood of Boulder, Douglas (Jen) Frank, Jr. of Three Forks, Jonathan Frank of Billings, and Christopher (Shad) Frank of East Helena. Other grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren, as well as her nieces and nephews also survive.
The funeral service is set for Saturday, October 6, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the K & L Funeral Home in Boulder, with interment following at the Boulder Cemetery. The viewing will be Friday noon to 6 p.m.
Keith Buckles, 64
Keith Gary Buckles, 64, of Great Falls, died September 11, 2007 of pneumonia at home surrounded by his family.
Keith was born August 7, 1943 in Helena MT to Alvin Milton “Bugs” and Georgia May “Bette” (Mosier) Buckles. He grew up in Boulder MT and continued to love the mountains and the people from the area even after moving to Great Falls. He loved hunting, golfing, skiing, running and biking. One of his favorite pastimes later in life was driving around the Whitetail pointing out all the successful locations of his hunting trips with his father and friends. He had many rich, wonderful memories of spending time with his grandparents in that area as well. Keith graduated from Jefferson High School in 1961. He married Sally Hagadone in 1964 and moved to Bozeman where he attended and graduated from Montana State University. They and their two children then moved to Chicago where he attended Northwestern University graduating in 1970 after earning his degree in Physical Therapy. He worked in the Physical Therapy Department at Deaconess Medical Center in Great Falls for 30 years before retiring. He and Sally divorced in 1981 and he has spent the last 15 years in a committed, loving partnership with Beverly Mitchell. Keith remained a true fan of the Bobcat football program and attended as many home games as possible over the years with his close friends. He exemplified patience and was loved by all who knew him. Many friends came to him for comfort and advice over the years and if there was ever a request for assistance he was generous to a fault. Private graveside services were held at the Boulder Cemetery. A memorial service is scheduled for October 13, 2007 at 2:00 at the Faith Center Church 4700 10th Ave South, Great Falls. Any memorials are requested to be sent to the church to assist with their missions. Survivors include his partner of 15 years, Beverly Mitchell of Great Falls; a daughter, Marci (Tim Coleman) Buckles of Helena; a son, Brian (Kal) Buckles of Oceanside, Calif.; sisters Carol (Richard) Sayles of Kalama, Wash., Barbara "Beanie"(Jerry) Hamlin of Helena and Sally Alzner of Woodburn, Ore.; Beverly’s children, Lisa (Matt) Urick of Belt, Danny (Dana) Mitchell of Great Falls; and eight grandchildren, Derek, Briana, Tori, Taylor, Nicole, Nolan, Emily and Dani.
John ‘Butchie’ Smith, 69
John "Butchie" Smith, age 69, of Boulder passed away Sunday, September 9 at St. James Healthcare in Butte.
He was born August 11, 1938 in Boise, Idaho to Walter and Christina (Rothfus) Smith. As a young boy he moved to Elkhorn where he spent his younger life. He was admitted to the Montana State Training School in Boulder in 1950. While living there his family took him once a week to enjoy Elkhorn. He lived in Boulder until moving to Butte six months ago.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Theresa Wareham, three half-brothers Morris, Floyd and Archie, a half-sister Alta and two uncles.
Survivors include his brother Bud and Paulette Smith of Boulder, aunt Louisa Rothfus of Helena, two half-sisters Delores and MittyMae, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 14 from the Good Shepherd Church on the Montana Developmental Center grounds at 10 a.m. with Rev. Gale Everson officiating. Interment will follow at the Elkhorn Cemetery in Elkhorn, Montana.
K&L Mortuaries of Boulder in charge of arrangements.
Donald K. Sever, 84
Donald Kenneth Sever, 84, died of natural causes in Clarkston, Idaho on August 24, 2007.
Donald was born August 5, 1923, in Pierre, S.D., to Frank Sever and Emma Zacharias. He was married to Ruth Friend Sever in 1947, and divorced in 1988.
He was a miner in the Butte, Montana area for several years, and then went to work for the State of Montana as a boiler master, where he retired.
He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Clarkston. He enjoyed dancing at the Moose and Eagles 631 clubs and in Winchester on Sundays. He loved growing plants, working in the yard, and his continuing building projects.
Survivors include his companion of many years, Frances Larreau of Lewiston, Idaho, her children and grandchildren, who adored him; daughters: Lynda Sever Haghan and husband, Mel, of Medford, Oregon; Jo Anne Sever Campbell and husband Tim of West Yellowstone, Montana; four granddaughters: Michelle Shoquist of Helena, Montana; Kelly Haghan of Medford, Oregon; Jodie Montague of Spokane; Kylie Sever, of Manhattan,
Montana; three grandsons: Dan and Tanner Sever of Belgrade, Montana, and Doug Haghan of Medford, Oregon; three great grandchildren: Paige Aldridge, Jacob Montague and Justin Montague, all of Spokane.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Rae McKinney, a son, Scott Sever, his parents, four sisters and two brothers.
Memorial services were conducted on August 28 at Clarkston United Methodist Church with Rev. Barrett Moffett officiating.
The family suggests memorial donations be made to Clarkston United Methodist Church in lieu of flowers.
Joseph Daniel Conger, 22