K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks Obituaries

About K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks is a trusted funeral home located in the heart of Three Forks, Montana. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has become a staple in the community, helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks, the team understands that losing a loved one is never easy. That's why they're dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, their staff is committed to ensuring that every detail is taken care of, allowing families to focus on what matters most - celebrating the life of their loved one.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

LaVonne Marie Wilcox - October 21, 1954 - September 12, 2023

Departed: 09/12/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: LaVonne Marie Thaut Wilcox, 68, passed away on September 12, 2023. She resided at Parkhaven Retirement Community in Manhatten, MT. LaVonne, along with her twin sister, LaVern, was born on October 21, 1954 to Ed and Esther Thaut. They resided in Custer, MT at the time but two years later relocated to the family farm near Shepherd, MT.

LaVonne graduated from Shepherd High School in 1972 and went to work at ER Young. She married Randy Paulson and they had two daughters. They later divorced.

Later, LaVonne married Barry Wilcox and lived near the Gallatin River just out of Three Forks. Barry had M.S. and she became his caregiver for nearly 20 years as the disease worsened. During this time she also shuttled for river guides. Barry passed in 2017.

The outdoors was Vonne's favorite place to be. She enjoyed her horses, her cat Jack, gardening, canning, yard work, splitting wood, hunting, fishing, and camping.

LaVonne is survived by her sisters Diana Kautz, LaVerne Casad; brothers Ron (Pinky) Thaut, Jerry (Niki) Thaut; daughters Krista and Dana. She was preceded in death by her husband, Barry and parents Ed and Esther.

LaVonne lived in Parkhaven for six plus years. No words can express our thanks and gratitude for the people of Parkhaven for their caring, compassionate and loving ways. LaVonne was part of a truly amazing family of Parkhaven. Also a special thanks to Enhabit Hospice for their loving care of LaVonne.

At LaVonne's request cremation has taken place and no services will be scheduled. Memorials may be sent to Parkhaven Retirement Community, 100 Hamilton Court, Manhattan, MT 59714, Enhabit Hospice or charity of choice.

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William Thomas Kanta - April 23, 1938 - August 23, 2023

Departed: 08/23/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: William Thomas Kanta (Tom) was born on April 23rd, 1938 at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital to Joseph and Mary (Ridzon) Kanta. The youngest of four children, Tom spent his childhood on the family farm on the outskirts of Bozeman. Graduating from Rosary High School in 1957, he briefly attended Montana State College before making the move to Idaho to help on his brother Joe’s farm. In 1960 Montana eventually called Tom back home where he settled in Three Forks and went to work with his brother George at Builders Products which later became the Kanta Products Block Empire that still exists today. A boy at heart, with interests of fast cars and blocks, Tom never gave up his love of farming and was seen riding in a combine from time to time.

His love of fast cars and drag racing earned him the reputation of the “man with the purple car,” capturing the attention and later the heart of Carol Knutson. The soul mates married on April 20th, 1963 and completed the all-American dream with daughters Dawn and Kimberly Jo. “Too many girls!” Which was Tom’s favorite saying in his last couple years when being surrounded by his loving caregivers.

A faithful member and supporter of the Catholic Church, Tom’s generous heart extended to his checkbook when it came to his family, friends, employees and community. Though Tom had a quiet strength about him, his blue eyes smiled and his love for his family was undeniable. His love for his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren was demonstrated at so many family gatherings where he was always photographed with a plate of food, a child and a smile, and he always had room for dessert.

As a team effort along with friends and family, Tom and Carol built a cabin on Canyon Ferry. Years of managing people and their skills at Kanta Products extended into the weekends because if you showed up expecting a leisurely weekend of boating, you were often put to work, whether you were family or not! However, the result was 60 years of cherished memories shared by all who visited the lakeside retreat.

On Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023, at 85, the Patriarch Kanta was reunited with wife Carol as he passed in his home after a full life.

He is survived by his daughters: Dawn Burgess and Kim Kanta Fink, grandchildren: Kayla (Halfdan) Galgerud, Matthew Burgess, Erika (Sam) Asay, Hailey Fink and Brigett Burgess and great grandchildren: Isabella, Nikolai, Lawson, Reuben, Roselee and Ellenor Galgerud, and many other beloved family.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of his friends, family and the masonry products that built so much in Montana and surrounding states. “Blessed are the humble, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven…” Matthew 5:3

Rosary~Wake Service will be Friday, Sept. 1, 2023 - 7pm at K & L Mortuary and Funeral Service will be Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023 - 11am at Holy Family Church. Both located in Three Forks.

A luncheon will follow graveside services in the basement of the church.

Donations can be made in his memory to Holy Family Church, Three Forks Senior Center, Three Forks Rodeo Bleacher Fund or your choice.

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Mabel Mae McDonald - November 28, 1929 - August 07, 2023

Departed: 08/07/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Mabel Mae McDonald, age 93 of Three Forks, MT, entered into God's Kingdom on August 7, 2023. She was born November 28, 1929 to Fred and Dora Hautier in Cameron, MT.

She graduated from Madison Valley High School in 1948. Mae then traveled to visit her sister Kay in CA where she met Holly J. McDonald. They were later married in NV. They moved to Virginia Beach, VA where they worked and raised their family. Mae was proud of her 23 years of working in Government Civil Service.

Upon retiring in 1991, Holly and Mae returned to her beloved MT. They choose Three Forks to make their final home.

Mae was always one to stay busy! Bowling was her passion. Active with her church and Rebekahs. She loved to help others and volunteered at Three Forks Museum and The Depot.

Friends and family looked forward to Mae's raspberry jam, crocheted dish towels, cloths as well as handmade Christmas gifts.

Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, sisters Kay and Gene, brother Jackie.

Mae is survived by daughter Charlotte, sons Curtis and Carl, grandchildren and great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held August 14, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Viewing will be at 1:30 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Three Forks, MT.

Donations to charity of your choice.

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Rodger Darby Parker - September 16, 1941 - May 25, 2023

Departed: 05/25/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Rodger “Darby” Parker, (81), of Willow Creek, Montana, passed away on May 25, 2023.

Darby was born to Jesse and Frances Parker in Bozeman, Montana, 9/16/1941. He grew up in Willow Creek, Montana and graduated from Willow Creek High School in 1959. Following this he studied to become an auctioneer.

He started working as a teenager hauling hay, and worked as a hired hand for several farmers and ranchers in the area. He and his father owned their own mechanic shop for a time. He also worked as a school bus driver, and for Montana Power. In 1970 he went to work for Trident Cement Plant. He eventually retired from the plant after 37 years. Darby was a mechanic by trade but was happiest working cattle and farming. He had a knack for solving problems in creative ways. This talent earned him the nickname MacGyver at the cement plant.

He was loved by friends and family for his clever wit and dry sense of humor. His greatest gift was his willingness to help anybody with anything, asking for nothing in return. As a boy, he became an avid reader. His favorite author was Louis L'Amour. He enjoyed studying maps and history. He loved spending time in the mountains fishing and hunting. He spent hours behind a spotting scope watching elk. He married Lorna Schwoob in 1963. They were married just 5 days short of 60 years. They had two daughters, Becky Satterwhite and Donna Parker. Becky blessed him with four granddaughters, Mariah, Nicole, Grace and Kayla. A friend once asked him if he felt cheated because he didn't have a grandson? He replied, “Why would I feel cheated? They all fish.”

A memorial service will be held at the Willow Creek High School gymnasium for friends and family June 10th at two o’clock.

Darby is survived by his wife Lorna and two daughters, Becky Satterwhite and Donna Parker. He is also survived by his sisters Sheila Covey (Bill) and Shari Harris, sister-in -law Marjorie Rogers, brother-in-law Larry Wilcox (Linda) along with his granddaughters Mariah, Nicole, Grace, Kayla, great-grandson Chayton Dean and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Frances Parker, a son Rodger Dean, father and mother-in-law, George and Valore Wilcox along with Lorna’s biological father George Schwoob.

Memorials in Darby's memory are preferred to the Three Forks Community Library PO Box 1350 Three Forks, MT 59752.

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James Clifford Phillips - July 10, 1948 - May 23, 2023

Departed: 05/23/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: James Clifford Phillips, 74, of Three Forks passed away suddenly on May 23 at his family cabin in the mountains above Pony. Jim was born in Three Forks to Cliff and Ruth (Colegrove) Phillips. Jim grew up on the west side of town on the edge of Buttleman’s field. He played in the woods and river bottom all day, collecting sheds and dragging stuff from the old dump to build forts. The family had a little trailer and camped often. When he was 10 years old, they bought land up the Gallatin Canyon and, until they got their cabin built, parked the trailer at the Rainbow Ranch. This was the beginning of Jim’s obsession with shed collecting. For years, Ruth would drop him between the canyon and Yellowstone Park, and he would hike the mountains, zigzagging across the hillsides, picking up sheds by himself. He also often camped and hunted sheds with his good friend, Bob Allen.

Jim enjoyed school, his classmates, and many activities. He lettered in football and track, sang in the chorus, and was on student council and annual staff. After graduation, he went to business school in Boise, Idaho where he met the love of his life, Diane Garey. They married in 1968 and settled in Three Forks. Jim first worked on the Milwaukee section and, in 1970, he went to work at the talc plant where he stayed until retirement. Jim put in his 8 hours so that he could go home and spend 8 hours doing the things that gave his life its worth—rock work, yard work, shed hunting, and spending time with family. He and Diane were fierce competitors through all their years of marriage, hosting pinochle parties with friends, playing mahjong at the library, and playing backgammon and Skip Bo at home, often with baking a rhubarb pie or completing a dreaded chore on the line.

Jim and Diane have three daughters—he loved his girls deeply and truly believed his girls could do anything boys could do. The whole family spent weekends shed hunting, camping, fishing, and working in the garden and yard. Jim didn’t do anything half-heartedly; he believed in giving any effort 110%, so the garden was huge, the rock work impressive, and the antler collection beyond belief. He built a massive pole barn where he displayed his world-class antler collection. People have come from all over the world to see the awe-inspiring display.

He also enjoyed spending time with his brother, Lee, who was 5 years younger. They both loved the outdoors and were passionate about shed collecting, regularly attending the antler auction in Jackson Hole and spending a lot of time shed hunting together.

Jim was a strong union guy, and he loved the town of Three Forks. He served his community for many years as a school board member, played league golf, grew a pumpkin patch from which preschool kids could pick their pumpkins every fall, put up spectacular Halloween and Christmas decorations, and gave out renowned Halloween treats. Besides his love for shed hunting, Jim’s other passions were his girls and his writing. He and Diane loved watching their girls play ball and run track, never missing a sporting event. He wrote different columns for the Herald throughout the years. Early on, he wrote a column for the Historical Society called “The Museum,” and later he wrote “A View from the Trail,” which he eventually published in three collections. Being devoted to walking the trail, Jim insisted that all profits from his writing go to the Headwaters Trail System. He sold his books at farmers market in Three Forks, Manhattan, and Bozeman.

When it came to his family, Jim wore his heart on his sleeve. In 55 years of marriage, he never forgot to get Diane an anniversary or birthday card, and he was a thoughtful gift-giver to his kids and grandkids. After the girls graduated, he missed them dearly, so he got a bulldog and named it Tippy, after a bulldog he had as a kid. Tippy captured his heart and kept him company for 12 years. Since then, Jim and Diane haven’t been without a bulldog, or two. Blossom, Skittles, and Juju followed, and their most recent bulldog “girls” are Twix and Snickers. After his morning trail walk, Jim would come home to feed his bulldogs a breakfast hotdog and spend some quality time with them on the couch before writing in his diary. As an avid writer, Jim kept a diary his entire adult life. He also logged shed counts after hiking trips, recorded yearly garden plantings, and logged all his walking and exercise biking miles. In less than 20 years, he made 3 trips around the world without leaving town, riding 50,000 miles on his exercise bike and walking over 25,000 miles on the trail system.

About 15 years ago, Jim and Diane built a cabin up behind Pony. They spent lots of time up there, especially enjoying clearing trees and brush, playing cards, and hauling rocks. Jim was a rock wall mastermind. He built hundreds of feet of impressive rock wall both at the house and the cabin. He had just completed the awesome rock entrance to the cabin the weekend before he died. Jim especially enjoyed time with family at the cabin, hiking, ziplining, and eating smores by the campfire with his eight grandchildren.

Jim was a proud grandpa and was grateful to have a second round of watching ball games and sharing his hard-earned wisdom with them. Again, he never missed a sporting event, school program, or recital. Jim was sentimental and a deep thinker. Over the years, he sent weekly letters to his kids and grandkids who lived outside Montana, and when he got his iPhone, he sent regular text touches to let everyone, even his sons-in-law, know he cared.

Jim is survived by his wife, Diane; three daughters, Lisa Malmquist (Daryl), Angie Casteel (Allen), and Wendy Krauter (Bryan); eight grandchildren, Ryan Malmquist, Ashley Malmquist, Zoe Walters (Jacob), Ivy Casteel, Jordan Freeman, Abbie Freeman, Sydney Krauter, and Joshua Krauter; mother-in-law Jeannine Garey; sisters-in-law Natalie Phillips and Nancy Lutz; and numerous cousins. His family asks that if you are so moved, please make donations in his memory to either the Headwaters Trail System or the Three Forks United Methodist Church.

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Don Ray Kelly - July 01, 1938 - May 17, 2023

Departed: 05/17/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty All thy works shall proclaim thy name In Earth and Sky and Sea

With a song written on his heart, Don Ray Kelly was welcomed to this Earth by Paul and Pauline Kelly on July 1, 1938 in Tucson, AZ. He spent his youth alongside his brothers Gene and Scott. enjoying times at the family drug store, pulling sodas. Don enjoyed playing all sorts of sports as a young boy as well.

Don’s 21 year marriage to Jean Williams welcomed his 5 children DeLynn, Angie, Todd, Ty and Jassen; who affectionately knew him as “Daddy”. Don raised his young family by the words of 2 Timothy 3:16-17. His words will always echo in their hearts and minds, “Get up! You gotta go to church!”. Don not only encouraged them to go to church, he showed them how to be the church. He sponsored a young Vietnamese Immigrant family, The Doan’s, and for years he celebrated their successes as new Americans with love and support. He was also a supporter and champion of Mount Dora Children’s Home. The family enjoyed Don’s work to develop Emerald Lake Beach Club, and time spent together there.

Don was always a hard working man, and it was work that took him to Montana, where he met a young widow, Marlene Martin Walker. They were married on February 15,1980. This union added Lori, Larry, Lonny and Lynae to the family.

Don’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of Kelly Bait Company and Body Comfort-an adjustable bed and massage chair company, with technology ahead of its time. Life and work took Don and Marlene to Bradenton, FL, Sevierville, TN, Culbertson, MT and finally Three Forks, MT. They enjoyed international travels to Germany and Japan together, as well as regular trips to Florida, Tennessee, Indiana, Eastern Montana and Colorado to visit dear family and friends.

Don’s proudest accomplishments would definitely include building a variety of things and working hard. He worked to build a large family. He was known as Papa to 9 Grandkids and 16 Great Grandkids on the Kelly side and 11 Grandkids and 18 Great Grandkids on the Walker side. He oversaw the construction of the Three Forks Church of Christ building, as well as a full addition to their Three Forks home to entertain numerous family and friends over the years. Don always kept busy, with many hobbies and interests. He had a passion for hunting. You couldn’t spend much time with Don without hearing a story or two of his hunting adventures and seeing his collection of photos. He was thrilled to make a brief debut on the DIY Hunter’s Youtube Channel. Don was active in the Men’s Ministry with the Church of Christ in Montana, attending many retreats and lectureship series. He enjoyed watching sports at home in the “TV Room” and listening to music and the Bible on his Ipod. And to the end of his days, his pitch pipe wasn’t far from his heart, as he was known for his songleading abilities and strong bass voice.

Don was loved and cared for at home until the very end of his life on this earth by his loving wife Marlene Kelly, as well as several children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was gently escorted by a host of angels to the gates of Heaven to sing the “Wonderful Words of Life” on May 17, 2023.

A very special thank you to Stillwater Hospice for their gentle support and Dominic Balzer for his kind “befriending” of Don and Marlene over the past few months. And a kind thank you from the family to all of those who were the hands and feet of Christ in this season to Don and Marlene.

Don leaves behind his loving wife, Marlene Kelly as well as his children, DeLynn Stroup, Angie Smith, Todd Kelly, Ty (Lynn) Kelly and Jassen(Sharon) Kelly, and all of their children-Kelli (Chris) Simpson, Christopher (Jacklyn) Smith, Christi Smith, Katie (Dustin) Stevens, Megan (Cole) Spurgeon, Ashley Kelly, Logan Kelly, Amanda (Chris) Blackburn, and Michelle (Jonathon) Watson, along with 16 Great Grandchildren. He also leaves behind Marlene’s children, Lori (Neil) Cadwell, Larry Walker & Lisa Walker, Lonny (Carrie) Walker and Lynae (Ricky) King and all of their children, Kisti (John) Felps, Gena (Andy) Johnson, Brynn (Derek) Turcotte, Kira (Sean) Gifford, Hunter (Lindsey) Walker, Cameron Walker, Tiffani Lang, Britt Lang, Emmy (Rob) Kitts, Chloe(Michael) Walker & Gabe Walker–along with 18 Great GrandChildren. He leaves behind a special friend, Scott Jenkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Pauline Kelly, his brother Gene Kelly, sons-in-law Ralph Stroup and Donald Smith, as well as dear friends Phil Cadwell and Randy Flint.

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Charles G. Brown - May 23, 1939 - April 20, 2023

Departed: 04/20/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: On April 20th, 2023 Charles Brown; father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend passed away at 83 yrs young.

Charles was born in Jordan, Montana and later moved to Billings, Montana with his family where he later graduated from Senior High School.

Charles met his future wife Jenny at a dance and they were married 54 yrs. On their 50th wedding anniversary they took an Alaskan cruise.

Charles worked for Heat & Frost Pipe Insulators Local #82 out of Spokane, Washington for 32 yrs. He loved family time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved the outdoors, camping,

fishing, hunting, and yearly family time at the lake.

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Jessie May Todd - September 06, 1933 - March 26, 2023

Departed: 03/26/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Jessie May Todd, 89, formally of Three Forks, died at Highgate Senior Living Center in Bozeman on March 26th.

She was born Sept. 6, 1933, at the family ranch near Whitehall, the daughter of Goodlet and Lulla Rogers. She attended grades 1-5 in Whitehall. The family moved to the Summit Valley between Cardwell and Harrison, where she graduated from the 8th grade at Cardwell School. In 1951, she graduated from Whitehall High School. During the summers and many weekends, she worked at the Harry Shaw Ranch in Cardwell.

Jessie married Tom Todd on June 10, 1951, in Whitehall. They resided in Willow Creek where they lived from 1951-2001, except for one year when they worked at the Harry Shaw Ranch.  Tom worked on the ranch, and Jessie cooked for the hired men.

Jessie was a homemaker. She stayed busy with all their children’s activities. She spent many hours sewing clothes, formals and cheerleading outfits. She made quilts for all her children and grandchildren. In April 1960, the family was baptized and joined the Willow Creek Methodist Church. Jessie was active in Ladies Aid and belonged to the Willow Creek Women’s Club.

Her great love for flowers prompted Tom to build her a greenhouse so she could grow her own.  She spent many happy hours planting seeds and nurturing plants through the years. She and Tom always raised a large garden; and after Tom retired, they sold vegetables at the Farmers’ Market in Bozeman and area stores.

Jessie received recognition for being a U.S. Weather Observer for 20 years.

Tom and Jessie sold their Willow Creek home of 44 years and built a new home in Three Forks, moving there in Aug., 2001, just after their children had a wonderful celebration for their 50th wedding anniversary. Sadly and unexpectedly, their son, Gary, died on Oct. 30, 2001.

Jessie belonged to the Three Rivers Senior Center. She enjoyed volunteering at the Three Forks Heritage Museum and the food bank. She was a life member of the Three Forks Area Historical Society. Jessie is survived by daughters, Paulette (Paul) Love of Custer, WA; Shirley (Scott) Lukkason of Great Falls; Beverly (Kraig) Saltness of Three Forks; daughter-in-law, Jackie Todd of Butte; sister, Francis Dellinger of Manhattan; brother, Dick Rogers of Deer Lodge; 9 grandchildren, Jason (Leeann) Todd, Jolene (Brian) Merrick, Theresa (Lloyd) Singson, Cory (Keelie) Duncan,

Nicole (Austin) Cronnelly, Kara (Erik) Norwood, Chad (Sara) Lukkason, Todd (Amanda) Lukkason, Kelli (Casey) Waldhauser; 22 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Jessie was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; son, Gary; 3 brothers, Jim, Ken and Chuck; and 2 sisters, Lulla Belle and Betty Jo.

A Memorial service to celebrate Jessie’s life will be held Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 11:00 at the K&L Funeral Home in Three Forks.

Her family would like to thank all the caregivers at Highgate Senior Living Center and Stillwater Hospice for the loving and compassionate care Jessie received.

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Robert E Jones - April 03, 1928 - March 26, 2023

Departed: 03/26/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Robert E. Jones of Three Forks passed away March 26, 2023 at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital. Born to R. Frank and Nora D. Jones in Bozeman, August 3, 1928, he lived in Three Forks all 94 years.

At the age of 13, he worked for the Yellowstone Garage at Three Forks and there discovered his passion for mechanical repair. Graduating from Three Forks High School in 1946, he entered the Army and completed basic training in tank repair at Fort Knox, KY. World War II ended at that time and he was assigned to a high security unit for hardened prisoners at Greenville, New York. As part of a crew armed with machine guns, he helped escort 51 hardened criminals through Grand Central Station on their way to prison.

Honorably discharged in 1947, Robert returned to Three Forks and worked for Kanta Products and others until being hired to plow snow for the department of Transportation; he became a full time employee until retirement in 1979.

In 1951, he helped build the Holy Family Church and was a lifelong member of the parish. Married there in 1954 to Pat Wendel of Helena, their three sons were all baptized there.

He completed a correspondence course in civil engineering which enabled him to become supervisor of Three Forks Highway Maintenance Division, and he served 12 years in the Army Reserve.

His hobbies included fishing in home made river boats, hunting, camping and collecting Hit and Miss Stationary Engines which he would run and show to others. Acquiring 20 acres of land near Babb in Glacier National Park, he spent 10 great summers on it while overseeing the building of a cabin. Robert was a regular volunteer at the Three Forks Historical Museum.

Robert is survived by his wife Pat, his three sons Tom (Nancy) of Helena, Mike of Aurora, CO and Ted (Maeve) of Kiel, WI. Two grandsons, Craig (KD) of East Helena, and Chris (Casey) of Las Vegas. Great grandchildren Cole and Keegan Jones of East Helena and Charli and Codi of Las Vegas. He is also survived by his brother Don (Phyllis) of Redlands, CA, brother-in-law Ted Wendel (Marlys) of Ravensdale, WA and sister-in-law Jane Pilola (Jerry) of Lincoln, MT and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, brother Tommy (infant), Jack (Romelle), Gerald (Carmen) and nephew John.

A funeral mass will be held at Holy Family Parish in Three Forks on Monday April 3, 2023 at 10:00 am with burial at the Three Forks Cemetery at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be at K&L Mortuary on Saturday afternoon April 1 and Sunday April 2, 2023.

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Dorene Gayle Sheeler - October 08, 1935 - March 17, 2023

Departed: 03/17/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Dorene Gayle Sheeler, loving wife, devoted mother, business woman. Lifelong friend to everyone that she touched. She was a second Mother to many. Went to be with the Lord on March 17, 2023 at approximately 11:00 p.m.

A celebration of life will be held at the Pendroy Volunteer Fire and Rescue Hall on April 8, 2023 from 3 to 6 p.m.

Dorene was born in Port Angeles, Washington on October 8, 1935. She attended school in Sultan, Washington and graduated from Sultan High in 1952. Graduated from the Everett Business College with an AS in, at the time, called Business Assistant, in Everett, Washington. Dorene married Robert (Bob) Sheeler also originally from Sultan, Washington on June 7, 1954 and they had four children.

Dorene worked for Boeing Aeronautics as an Executive Assistant (Secretary) in the 50’s and 60’s in Renton, Washington and was a bookkeeper, both paid & unpaid for multiple businesses that the family was associated with in the 60’s & early 70’s.

In 1974 she moved to Pendroy, Montana from Marysville, Washington where she and Bob owned and operated The Rose Room restaurant and bar and later Sheeler and Son Enterprises, until the passing of her husband, Bob in August, 2020. Dorene than lived in Conrad, Montana with her son, Tracy and his wife Christy for 6 months. Then another 6 months with her daughter Myldred and her husband Dave Stine in Three Forks, Montana. In November, 2021 she had a stroke and was moved to Park Haven Memory Care Facility in Manhattan, Montana until her passing.

Dorene was an active member of the Pendroy Social Club from 1974 through 2020, and member of the Pendroy Community Church.

She enjoyed running the Rose Room, where she was chief cook, host, manager, bookkeeper, and not in jest, chief bottle washer. What is so funny, she hated to cook. She, her husband, and family built the reputation for the fine food and steaks at The Rose Room that was listed for many years in the Montana Restaurant & Bar guide as a Destination Restaurant.

She is survived by her children; sons, Charles Sheeler, OS1 (SW/AW), US Navy (Ret) (Katy) of Tigard, Oregon and Tracy Sheeler (Christy) of Conrad, Montana; daughter, Myldred Stine (Dave) of Three Forks, Montana; daughter-in-law, Suzie Sheeler of Bremerton, Washington: multiple grandchildren, great-grand-children, great-great-grand-children, nephews, nieces, great-nephews and nieces: as well as many wonderful friends.

She is preceded in death by parents, Otto Kaiser & Myrtle Novak; Husband, Robert (Bob) Sheeler; Sister, Louise Spicer; Brother, Lawrence Kaiser; son, Daniel Sheeler; and great- grandson, Taylor Campbell.

Condolences can be made at Dorene’s memorial page at kandlmortuaries.com.

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Joan Mary Benusa - February 20, 1933 - March 07, 2023

Departed: 03/07/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Joan Mary Benusa, 90, of Manhattan, MT, passed away March 7, 2023, at Parkhaven Retirement Community, where she had been a resident for the past 6 years.

Joan was born to John Egnatius and Mary (Filip) Witucki at home in Bowlus, MN, on February 20th, 1933, during a severe Minnesota blizzard.

Joan grew up in Bowlus, MN, and attended school at a one room country schoolhouse from 1st through 8th grade. As the only student from 5th to 8th grade, she found herself helping in the younger grades, which developed into a passion for teaching at an early age and continued throughout her lifetime. She attended the all-girls St. Francis Catholic High School in Little Falls, MN, graduating in 1950. After graduation, Joan attended one year of teacher’s training and for the next 5 years she taught in several rural country schools, including the country school she attended. For the next few years, she taught in Circle Pines, MN. but sadly, in November of 1957, her mother passed away from a brain aneurysm. Joan then returned to Bowlus, MN, to help care for her father and was able to teach for one year at Rice, MN.

In 1957, her future husband, Reynold Benusa, returned home from his military service in Germany. Rey and Joan were married on July 8, 1959, at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Bowlus. In the following years, Rey obtained his pharmacy degree from NDSU in Fargo, where Jeff and Lisa were born. A move to Danville, IL, where Ann and Robert were born was soon followed by a return move to Little Falls, MN. During those years Joan was busy with the 4 kids but also managed to obtain her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from St. Cloud College in 1972.

In 1976, the family decided to move to Montana, after they fell in love with the Gallatin Valley during a summer trip. Their Montana years found them owning Manhattan Drug & Pharmacy, while Joan taught at Manhattan Elementary School. In 1992, Rey & Joan moved just down the road to Three Forks, MT, where they opened the Three Forks Pharmacy & Gift Shop until they retired and closed the business in 2006. Their Polish heritage and love of Polka music and dancing added to their enjoyment of their working and retirement years.

Joan has always been very active in the Catholic Church, serving in different ministries throughout the years. She was a loving and devoted grandmother. Her grandchildren were truly her pride and joy.

A special thanks and hugs to the staff of Parkhaven for all of their love and support over the past years.

Joan is survived by her four children: Father Jeffrey Benusa of Thompson Falls, MT, Lisa (Tim) Dyksterhouse of Churchill, MT, Ann (Dan) Heisler of Manhattan, MT, and Robert (Denise) Benusa of Singapore. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Trent (Katie) Dyksterhouse, Kayla (Trevor) Dalin, Kendal (Jessica) Dyksterhouse, Kieran Cowan, Tara (Austin) Zenner, Tim Cowan, Quinn Benusa; eight great-grandchildren: Jocelyn and Gunner Dalin, Luna, Cora and Camille Zenner, Justin and Ivan Dyksterhouse, Claire Dyksterhouse; and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving Joan is sister Alice Piotrowski; along with in-laws and spouses: David (Roberta) Benusa, Arnold “Punky” (Margie) Benusa, Renée Benusa, Bev (Tim) Riesner, Genny Benusa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Reynold; siblings and their spouses: Mildred (John) Biros, Albert (June) Witucki, Edward (Marge) Witucki, Gerard (Jean) Witucki, Paul (Patricia) Witucki; and brothers-in-law: Alvin “Putt” Piotrowski, Roger Benusa.

Viewing will be held at K & L Mortuary of Three Forks, MT, on Wednesday, March 15th from 9 am to 5 pm and Thursday, March 16th from 9 am to 3 pm. Visitation will be at Holy Family Catholic Church on March 16th at 4 pm followed by the Vigil service at 5 pm. The funeral Mass will be held at 12 pm, on March 17, 2023, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Three Forks with Father Jeff Benusa, and Father Eric Gilbaugh celebrating the Mass. A reception will follow in the church basement. Burial will be held at 3 pm at Meadowview Cemetery south of Manhattan. Memorials can be made to: https://gallatinvalleyrighttolife.com/

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Tina Marie Creason - September 25, 1958 - February 22, 2023

Departed: 02/22/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Tina Marie Creason passed away on Feb 22, 2023 at Three Forks, Montana.

She is survived by her husband Harold Creason, they shared 20 years of marriage together. She was a beloved mother to Harley, Dustin, Brandy (Dustin wife), Desiree, Dennis, Tabitha and grandmother to Haley, Aria, Aryah, Jax, Silas, James and Asher.

Our mother was a very talented and creative women, she devoted her life to being a wife, mother and grandmother. She will be dearly missed for her cooking and baking with our children. Memorial donations may be made to Harold Creason and taken to 648 Linda Lane, Three Forks, Montana 59752

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Kenneth Lloyd Ypma - March 16, 1939 - February 02, 2023

Departed: 02/02/2023 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: On the morning of February 2, 2023, Kenneth Lloyd Ypma died peacefully in his home at the age of 83.

Ken was born March 16, 1939, in Bozeman Montana, to Ray and Dorothy Ypma. Ken lived in and around the Gallatin Valley his entire life. Ken attended school in Churchill Montana at Manhattan Christian School, where he excelled as a pitcher on the baseball team.

For most of his working life, Ken was a general contractor, and builder in the Gallatin valley. Around the valley, the homes, and structures he constructed are a monument to his skill, dedication and mastery of his craft.

Ken was an avid collector of primitives and antiques. He enjoyed working in his shop, building furniture for his family. Ken also enjoyed fishing and camping with his family. He loved sharing his knowledge of & the history of both his family heritage & the Gallatin Valley where he grew up. He was a true son of Montana.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Dorothy (Vanderby) Ypma, brother Don Ypma, brother Ray Lee Ypma.

He is survived by his beloved wife Sharon (Van Dyke) Ypma, Brother Les (Donna) Ypma, Sons Vince, Craig and Scott, Ypma. Grandchildren Jacqueline (Keenan) Dalrymple, Samantha Ypma, and great grandchildren Olivia Gastelum, Giovanni Gastelum, Elliot Dalrymple, Nolan Dalrymple. He is also survived by his beloved little dog Bobo who could be found at his feet constantly.

At Kens request there will be no service.

The family will schedule a celebration of his life in the summer when friends and family can enjoy fellowship and share stories about Ken. Memorial donations in his memory can be made to: Royal Family Kids Camps which is an outreach of Construction Zone Youth ministry based in Three Forks, MT. Through this powerful camp and club program, foster children across Montana are being blessed with life-changing moments of healing and joy. (https://constructionzoneyouthcenter.org/rfk/)

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Lewis K. May - October 12, 1926 - September 09, 2022

Departed: 09/09/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Lewis K. May was born on October 12, 1926, in Sayle, MT; he was the 4th of 5 children born to Agnes (Griffin) and Keppie May.

He died on September 9, 2022, of natural causes.

He lived in Billings, Big Timber and Harrison while growing up; he graduated from Harrison High School in 1944 then enlisted in the Navy for 2 years from 1944-1946 following graduation.  Lew graduated from Montana State College in 1950 with a degree in Pre-Medicine. He worked at the Wyoming State Board of Health before being offered a stipend to return to Montana State College. Lew received his Master’s degree in Microbiology and Bacteriology in 1954. After working at the Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah for the military, he moved to Canada in 1958 to run an A&W root beer stand. Lew’s interest in microbiology brought him back to Utah where he worked in the Surgical Research Laboratory at Veterans’ Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. His supervisor at the VA Hospital convinced him to move to Philadelphia, PA, to work at Womens’ Hospital for the next 4 years. Lew was on the investigative team that identified the bacterium causing Legionnaire’s disease. He then began research work for Carter Wallace Pharmaceutical Company in New Jersey until he retired in 1994.

Lew married Alice Kane on May 15, 1972, and they enjoyed many fun vacations, including traveling to Portugal and Europe several times.

Alice died suddenly during a trip to Montana on June 12, 1993. Lew then moved to Harrison, MT, after Alice’s death to be near his extended family. After finding a house he thought was the perfect home for him in Three Forks, he moved there in 1997. Lew moved to the Parkhaven Cottages in Manhattan in 2017 then the Parkhaven main facility in 2021.

Lew was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his sisters Inez (Earl) and Audrey (Jack), brother (Sam), brother-in-law (David), 2 nieces (Pearl, Gail), 6 nephews (Jerry, Chuck, Art, Richard, Ray and Max), great-niece (Dawn), niece-in-law (Joy), 3 nephews-in-law (Gary, Tom, Ron) and sister-in-law (Patsy). He was also preceded in death by his friend, Hayden Ferguson. Lew often talked about their friendship saying: “I can’t remember a time when Hayden wasn’t part of my life”, as they had been friends since childhood.

He is survived by his sister, Blanche, as well as his nieces and nephews: Gene (Pat) Townsend of Three Forks, Ken (Karen) Manley of Manhattan, Jackie Todd of Butte and Wilma Wheeler of Alberton. Nieces-in-law Dorothy Townsend (Lisle, IL) and Marie Townsend (Tucson, AZ) survive him. Several great-nieces/nephews, great-great nieces/nephews and dear friend, Sean Rochford who was like a son to him, are also survivors.

Lew enjoyed Montana history and Western art; he loved walking, birdwatching, dancing, visiting, a good meal and good wine. He made the best white chocolate cheesecake ever, which was a dessert frequently requested by his family.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Headwaters Trail System, PO Box 187, Three Forks, MT 59752; Headwaters Food Bank, PO Box 836, Three Forks, MT 59752; and Railroad and Trident Heritage Center, PO Box 116, Three Forks, MT 59752.

Arrangements are in care of K & L Mortuary of Three Forks.

Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Harrison, MT, Cemetery.

The family is grateful for the compassionate, kind care provided to Lew by Enhabit Bozeman Health Hospice and Parkhaven Assisted Living.

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Patricia Ann Fairhurst Marceau - August 04, 1928 - August 26, 2022

Departed: 08/26/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Ann Britzius Fairhurst Marceau passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on 26 Aug 2022.

Pat was born on 4 Aug 1928 in Harlowton, Montana, to James and Laura Britzius, a year before the Great Depression began. Although life was often difficult, Pat had very fond memories of her childhood. She often told stories about Christmas’s spent with extended family and the candle-lit Christmas tree and stuffed goose or turkey.  In 1942 the family moved to Three Forks where Jim was employed by the Milwaukee Railroad. Pat was 14 at the time and not too keen to be uprooted away from her friends and extended family. Pat quickly adapted to her new life and enjoyed her cheerleading, typing, shorthand and movies at the Ruby Theater.

She soon met her future husband, Thomas Fairhurst, who had returned from Kemper Military School. They were married in Butte on 20 Oct 1946.

Pat created a wonderful life for her family. She and Tom raised their three children, Elizabeth (Beth), Sharyn and William (Doug) in Three Forks. Pat and Tom took over running the historic Park Hotel from his parents before moving into a house they built in the 1960’s. They spent many, magical vacations at their cabin on Cliff Lake swimming, boating and picnicking. Pat was the epitome of style, grace and tenacity; she was a role model and inspiration to her family. She stepped out of social norms and took a job outside of the home and eventually became the only female cement inspector in the country. She finished out her career working in the office in Trident for the Ideal Cement Company. Pat lost her beloved husband Tom at the age of 54 in 1982. She went on to meet her soulmate, John Marceau, in 1987 and spent 35 happy years with him.

She is survived by her husband, John Marceau; her children, Beth Hart of Missoula, MT and Doug (Donna) Fairhurst of Three Forks; her grandchildren Beverly (Jim) Williams, Arnie (Jamie) Andersen, Lisa Prakash, Andy (Becky) Andersen, Jennifer (Brad) Taylor, and Aaron (Lori) Andersen; and 14 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her step children Cathy Marceau, Curt (Cindy) Marceau, Scott Marceau, Mark (Jesse) Marceau, and Todd (Cindy) Featherly; 11 grandchildren and a great granddaughter.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Fairhurst, sister, Joyce Cooper, daughter, Sharyn Andersen, great granddaughter, Piper Taylor, and step-son Michael Marceau.

Cremation has taken place. A private memorial service for family will take place at the Fairview Cemetery at Three Forks

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David Allen Bohrer - March 01, 1940 - August 21, 2022

Departed: 08/21/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: David Bohrer was born in Fargo North Dakota on March 1,1940 and passed away on Sunday August 21st, 2022 at 12:01 PM in Billings MT at the ST Vincent Hospital.

He is with our Father in Heaven surrounded by our families.

He leaves behind his wife of 41 years Sharon Bohrer, a son Bob Bohrer, and 2 daughters Linda Melgren and Glenda, 1 grandson Jaden Bohrer, 2 granddaughters Alexus "Lexi" Mashburn, and Lindsey Melgren.

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Dennis D Voeller - September 11, 1956 - August 09, 2022

Departed: 08/09/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Dennis D Voeller of Three Forks, MT sadly passed away on August 9, 2022 at Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital. He was surrounded by close family and friends.

Dennis was born in Rugby, ND and spent most of his life between Rugby and Minot, ND. He served proudly in the Army National Guard and was deployed overseas during Desert Storm. For most of the last decade he spent his time enjoying the beauty of Montana. He lived a full life; traveling, hiking, hunting, kayaking, and many other activities with those he cared for the most.

Dennis loved his job as Director of the Gallatin County Fair and those he worked with closest. He loved the opportunity to meet and work with a wide range of people, as well as organize various events and activities.

His greatest joy was watching his children and grandchildren grow; whether that be following them on the ice rink, baseball field, swimming lanes, soccer field or just being a part of their daily lives. He will be missed greatly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Pius and Rose (Salwey) Voeller.

He is survived by his daughter, Celeste (Steve) Bradford, their children Caleb and Belle of Indiana; son, Dustin (Julie) Voeller their children Dane, Brody and Reed Voeller of ND as well as five sisters, one brother and various extended family members.

A Celebration of Life will take place out of state. We invite you to make a donation in Dennis's honor, in lieu of flowers, to: Gallatin County Fairgrounds 901 N Black

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Sandy Vandolah Callantine - February 06, 1944 - August 06, 2022

Departed: 08/06/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Sandy passed away August 6, 2022 after a nearly yearlong battle with covid and respiratory infection.

She was born to Charlotte (Billman) and Melvin Vandolah in Bozeman, MT February 6, 1944. She grew up in Three Forks, MT and graduated from Three Forks High in 1962. As the story goes, she met Wayne Callantine at the Do Drop Inn where she worked as a waitress and he as a cook. Wayne and Sandy married in Virginia City in 1963 by a Justice of the Peace who was blind in one eye and couldn’t see out the other.

Sandy was a homemaker and mother to Chip Tom Addie Vernon Wes (that’s how she called the kids in at supper time). People of Three Forks will probably remember her as a feisty gal who would have a smart aleck comment or a story about the good ole days. She loved to crochet, read and bake until her health declined.

Sandy is survived by her brother Andy Vandolah and sister in law Naomi Vandolah, her children Chip Callantine -Belgrade, Tom (Liinda) Callantine -Onaska, TX, Dawn (David) Smith -Bozeman, Vernon (Nevon) Callantine, Wes Callantine -Belgrade, bonus kids Tim Callantine -Three Forks and Susan McPherson -Mountainberg, AR and many more people she felt were family. Sandy had 30 grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Sandy was preceded in death by her mother and father, two infant siblings, husband, brothers Jim, Pete and Pug and sisters Tootsie, Snookie, Sister or also known as Melvin (Naomi), Kenneth (Stacy), Harold (Marlene), Joan (Jim) Keenan, Alice (George) Conner, Elsie (Bob) Clifford and sister in law Anita (Andy) Vandolah. She also lost 2 grandchildren.

She wanted no service, funeral or memorial.

Thanks to Bozeman Health, Bridger Rehab, Gallatin Rest Home and Bozeman Health Hospice for the care. Thank you to our friends and family for your patience and understanding.

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Wade Ray Hansen - April 24, 1965 - July 19, 2022

Departed: 07/19/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Wade Ray Hansen of Three Forks took his final ride to Heaven on July 19, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Wade was born on April 24th, 1965, to Jay and Patricia Hansen in Glasgow, Montana. Wade was raised in Manhattan, Montana and graduated from Manhattan High School where his daughters, Tara and Kylie Hansen, and his nephew, Dustin Hansen later graduated from as well. Since Wade was young, he has always grown up with and loved the cowboy way of life. He spent many years traveling the wild rodeo road with his brother, J.L. Hansen, and then spent the rest of his life traveling the less wild rodeo road with his daughters. Wade loved skiing, welding, kayaking, the lake, playing darts, and would try just about anything at least once. Although Wade did many things, his greatest accomplishment of his life was having his two daughters and supporting them all the way through. Wade was the dad that never missed a phone call and helped with any and everything they needed at the drop of a hat.

Wade worked for Towhaul for over twenty years where he was able to travel the world and build relationships across the globe. Later in his life he ended up starting his own welding business where he put his passions and creativity to work.

Wade is survived by his two daughters Tara and Kylie Hansen, his mom and dad Jay and Patricia Hansen, his brothers J.L Hansen (wife Christie Hansen and nephew Dustin Hansen), and Daniel Hansen (wife Nan Hansen and children Chelsea and Dusty Hansen).

We will be having a celebration of life for Wade on Sunday, July 24th from 1-3pm at Taylor Park in Manhattan, Montana. Friends and family are all welcome and encouraged to come and share all memories of Wade, as we know there are some great ones.

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Larry LeRoy Baker - June 10, 1942 - July 08, 2022

Departed: 07/08/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Larry LeRoy Baker of Manhattan, MT was called home on July 8, 2022. He passed away from natural causes while at home.

Larry was born on June 10, 1942 on a farm by Morton, MN to LeRoy and Lena Baker. After serving in the Army, his passion for the outdoors took him to Alaska for adventures. While there, he met the love of his life, Eileen and they were married on February 2, 1967. Employed by US Fish and Wildlife, he was tasked with exploring the Aleutian Islands in a small, little boat. He noted that he was closer to Russia than this wife. He helped start the WELS church in Anchorage, AK. From there, they moved to Montana and Larry went to Cosmos, MN to study taxidermy. In 1971, they settled in Manhattan where they raised their family. They were blessed with two sons, Lance and Paul. He helped start the WELS Church in Bozeman, MT.

Larry started Baker Studio and had a career in taxidermy for decades. He enjoyed swapping stories with the hunters, getting out hunting and fishing, and raising different types of exotic birds. He always looked forward to spotting that first robin of the spring each year.

As a faithful and strong Christian, he supported the churches over the years with his time, talents, and treasures. He will be deeply missed until we see him again in Heaven.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents LeRoy and Lena Baker.

He is survived by his wife Eileen Baker, brother Gary (Joyce) Baker, sister Bonnie (Ron) Dobmeier, sons Lance (Veronica) Baker and Paul (Michelle) Baker and his grandchildren Jacob, Sarah, Rachael, Ashlyn, Adam and Jessy.

Services will be held Wednesday, July 13th at 11:00am at Shining Mountains Lutheran Church – Bozeman, MT. Reception to follow.

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Richard Perry Macrow - April 30, 1950 - May 30, 2022

Departed: 05/30/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Richard “Rich” Macrow of Logan, Mont., died May 30, 2022. He was born on April 30, 1950, in Billings, Mont., to wonderful parents Herbert and Ginger Macrow. He was raised on the Vermillion Ranch near Shepherd, where his father worked for many years. Their life on the ranch was full of great memories, especially with the Frey kids.

Right after graduation from Shepherd High School, Richard married his sweetheart, Loretta. They had two children together, Bernadette and Josh.

He worked several different jobs over the years, from Torgerson’s Farm Equipment in Shelby, Mont., and the Mill in East Helena, until landing at Kamp Implement in Belgrade as a diesel mechanic for nearly 35 years.

In 1982, Richard met Edye Gee on a blind date and soon after the two were married. That union lasted 33 years until her passing. Richard happily became dad to Edye’s 4-year-old son Jeremy and gave him the Macrow name. Several years later they welcomed their daughter Sadye and the family was complete. Rich loved his family dearly and worked hard to make a good life for them.

Rich enjoyed old westerns, tinkering on cars, playing cards, camping with friends and family, and joking with everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife and best friend Edith Gee Macrow.

Survivors include his older sister Irene Reiter (Dennis); his younger brother Mitch Macrow (Mary); his daughters Bernadette Murphy (Art) of Butte and Sadye Knutson (Chad) of Three Forks; sons Josh Macrow (Kelly) of Butte and Jeremy Macrow (Ren) of Three Forks; grandchildren Jordan Knutson, Loren Woody, Ben Macrow, Taylor Macrow and Victor Whealy; sister-in-law Leola Quam; brother-in-law Rob Gee (Denise); father-in-law Toby Gee (Sarah); and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2022, at 1 p.m. at the Christian Center in Three Forks. Immediately following the service there will be a celebration of life including a “Pitchfork Fondue” potluck at his son Jeremy’s in Three Forks. Please join us and share stories and maybe a Bud Light in honor of a man gone to soon but never forgotten!

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Edward Max Makoff - July 12, 1933 - May 15, 2022

Departed: 05/15/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Edward Max Makoff of Bozeman passed away surrounded by his family at Parkhaven Retirement Community in Manhattan on May 15, 2022. He was born July 12, 1933, in Lustre, MT, to parents Max Makoff and Helen (Zavalney) Makoff Kuzbar.

The love of Ed’s life was his wife of 66 years, Donna Jean (Lane) Makoff. Ed and Donna were sweethearts throughout high school and married September 5, 1955, shortly after he graduated college with his first degree and just before he entered the Air Force as a pilot.

Ed graduated high school in Three Forks and went on to get a BA in Industrial Arts at Montana State University in Bozeman, where he also played football for the Bobcats. After he graduated in 1955, Ed was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force, Ed flew B-52 bombers and fighter jets and was a flight instructor.

The couple spent three years in San Antonio, TX, and Denver, CO. In 1958 they returned to Bozeman where Ed was a Captain in the United States National Guard while he also furthered his education at Montana State University. In 1962, he earned his second degree, this time in Civil Engineering. When he graduated, Ed immediately went to work for the Bureau of Reclamation and stayed there until his retirement. During his employment he was a Field Civil Engineer at the Yellowtail Dam (Hardin, MT) and at the Grand Coulee Dam (Grand Coulee, WA). He finished his career in 1987 as a Project Construction Engineer for the Garrison Diversion Project (Bismarck, ND). When they retired, Ed and Donna settled back in Bozeman and for many years spent the winters in Sun City, AZ.

As an alumnus, Ed was a devoted Bobcat fan throughout his life, and he made concerted efforts to recruit others to the fandom, no matter where in the country he lived. He was also an ardent outdoorsman and spent much of his free time RVing with Donna and hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling with his family and friends.

Ed’s survivors include his wife Donna; brother Donald Makoff (Carol) of Bozeman; step siblings George “Sam” McCormick (Rosalie) of Three Forks, William McCormick of Cody, WY, and Ralph McCormick (Linda) of Bozeman; sisters-in-law Sylvia McCormick of Bozeman, Mary Lou Mintling (Dick) of Kearney, NE, and Lahoma Lane of Vancouver, WA; brothers-in-law Joe Pete Lane (Joyce) of Palm Desert, CA, and Pat John Lane (Carol) of Missoula; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother Pauline Makoff; siblings Josephine Broshears, Maxine Levy, Betty Jane Anthony, Walter ”Micky” Makoff, and Victor Makoff; stepsiblings Robert “Mac” McCormick, James “J.R.” McCormick, Margaret “Peggy” (McCormick) Haigh, and Rodger McCormick; brother-in-law Frederick “Mike” Lane; and sister-in-law Madeline (Lane) Todd.

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Joseph Ralph Baker - June 09, 1936 - May 13, 2022

Departed: 05/13/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Ralph Baker passed away at his home in Three Forks on Friday May 13 after a short illness. Joe was born in Bozeman on June 9, 1936 and attended Bozeman school, graduating from Gallatin County High School in 1954. Joe spent four years in the Navy as a C.B. After his service, Joe returned to Bozeman where he worked in construction and concrete finishing. Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing and all Montana had to offer. Joe (Poker Joe) dealt cards at Big Sky and at Chet's Bar and Whiskey Jacks for 25 years.

Joe is survived by two sons, Bob Baker of Whitehall, Ken Baker of Washington, Missouri, brothers Don Baker of Deer Lodge, MT, Tom Baker of Bozeman and his partner, JoAnn Allen of Three Forks, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Chester R. and Irene (Ross) Baker, a sister, Dorothy Wahl and brother Ron Baker of Kalispell, MT and an infant son, David.

A military service will be graveside at the Three Forks cemetery on Friday the 20th of May at 11:00 A.M.

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Andrew Thomas Evenson - August 26, 1972 - April 25, 2022

Departed: 04/25/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Andrew Thomas Evenson, D.C., 49, passed away on Monday, April 25, 2022 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho doing what he enjoyed, helping others.

Andrew was born on August 26, 1972 in Bozeman, MT to Myron and Karen Evenson. Born the second child, he was always found spending time with his big brother Mike and the neighborhood kids on Third Avenue E and the playground of Three Forks Schools. He graduated from Three Forks High School in 1990, where he attended school K-12. During this time in his life Andy learned the gift of education. You could often find him in the study hall assisting his classmates with their homework. He excelled in everything he did including golf, church, and most lovingly remembered by his community as the “entertainment” at social events. He then took this love of education further to Billings, MT where he attended Eastern Montana College where he earned his teaching degree.

Andrew taught Science at Oroville, WA Jr. High and High School for five years after graduation and added coaching girls basketball to his list of achievements. His time spent with high school students were some of the best years of his life. He enjoyed their energy and the challenge to share his love of education was addictive. He was best known in his classroom for his humor to keep his students attention and continually push them to be the best of themselves.

Because Andrew had achieved his first goal in life, he was ready to move to the next level. Own a small business. He attended Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, OR, and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic. In 2004, Evenson Chiropractic in Coeur d’Alene began. Here he became the person he wanted to be. Every day he assisted those in pain to recovery and made hundreds of friends in doing so.

Andrew then fell in love and married Mary Turner on October 12, 2013 at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Coeur d’Alene. Mary was the one true love of his life and with her came the family he had always wanted. He adored his daughter Breanna and his grandson Phoenix more than the air he breathed and would brag to everyone who would listen about how wonderful it was to be a Papa.

Andrew pushed himself every day to live to the fullest. When he woke he had goals to achieve and people to entertain and heal. Because of his tireless drive of life, he became the friend that every person wanted. His loyalty, love and patience earned him the largest family in Idaho and Montana. You could find him on the golf courses in any weather, playing his bass guitar, or in a pub watching sports in a crowd of familiar faces. He ran 11 marathons and completed four Ironman Triathlons in less than 10 years and sat on the Board for St. Vincent de Paul and IDFY. Lastly, Andrew is a member of El Katif Shrine, Past Worshipful Master of Rathdrum Lodge #41 AF & AM, Worshipful Master of Coeur d’Alene Lodge #20, and was serving as Senior Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge of Idaho AF & AM at the time of his passing. He was also a member of Aurora Lodge #201 in Oroville, WA, Three Forks Lodge #73, Idaho City Historic Lodge #1863, and Bannack Historic Lodge #3-7-77. If there was a person in need at any time, Andrew would find a way to help them. As written in Matthew 25:21, “Well done my good and faithful servant”

He is survived by his wife Mary Evenson of Hayden, ID; one daughter Breanna Maloney of Hayden; grandson Phoenix Van Leuven of Hayden; and brother Brian Evenson of Three Forks, MT.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Michael Evenson.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022 at the Rathdrum Masonic Lodge, 15190 McCartney St, Rathdrum, ID. Viewing will be held from 2-4 p.m. prior to services. Burial will be at the Fairview Cemetery in Three Forks, MT on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Andrew’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.

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Gordon Russell Williams - October 26, 1934 - March 05, 2022

Departed: 03/05/2022 (Three Forks)

Obituary Preview: Gordon Russell Williams was born October 26, 1934, in Three Forks, Montana, to Lester and Beatrice Williams. On March 5, 2022, after a long and arduous battle with his health, he went to be with the Lord surrounded by those who loved him most: his wife of nearly 62 years and their children. His uncle Elwood gave him the nickname "Squirt," which stuck with him throughout his life. He was always known fondly as "Grandpa Squirt" by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gordon worked alongside his father on the family ranch as a young boy, where he learned to ride horses and work cattle. His passion for horses came from their utilization on the ranch and was instilled in him at a young age. However, tending to his cows remained his favorite ranch duty. After working his entire life on the family ranch, Gordon was left his portion by his father in the early 1960s and later ventured out on his own in 1970. This carried on the legacy of the original Williams Ranch, which was homesteaded in 1864. He continued to work alongside his five children, instilling in them the importance of a strong work ethic and taking pride in their work. As the years went on, you could find him out in the field with his mesh muscle shirts and hip-waders on, in one of his John Deere tractors, zipping around on his four-wheeler or driving around in his old Dodge pickup (which he wished was a Ford).

He attended elementary and high school at Willow Creek School and graduated in 1953. He desired to enlist in the military, but at the time, his needs on the family ranch were too great. He later enlisted in the Army Reserve, where he had the opportunity to travel outside of Montana to Yakima, Washington, and build an airstrip.

After meeting in High School and dating for a couple of years, Gordon and Barbara were married on April 23, 1960, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Townsend and later welcomed their five children. Gordon's kids were his pride and joy. He faithfully attended every activity that his five children participated in growing up and that dedication to his family carried over into his grandchildren's activities. He was a mainstay at high school basketball games and closely followed the MSU Bobcat football team.

Gordon was admired by everyone that knew him for his grit, strong work ethic, and integrity. He was a Montana rancher through and through and continued working the ranch at the age of 87, up until his health would no longer allow it. His tenacity was something to be admired. His signature limp resulted from a significant injury to his foot nearly 25 years ago that he refused to have checked by a doctor. He never allowed an injury or sickness to slow him down and keep him from the ranch work that needed to be done. As tough as he was, Gordon was also one of the most generous and kind-hearted individuals. He never spoke ill of anyone and was always there to lend a helping hand. He had a strong Catholic faith, which stayed with him until the end. His strong faith and indomitable spirit inspired those around him, especially his loved ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Beatrice Williams, brother Francis (Jeanie) Williams, and sister Norma (Dave) Miller. He is survived by his wife Barbara K. Williams, sons Dana (Robin) and Dennis (Kathy) Williams of Willow Creek, and daughters Danelle (Louis) Oakes of Three Forks, Denise (Derek) Homan of Bozeman, and Deanna (George) McKay of Columbus, sister Naoma (Dick) Lower of Harrison, numerous nieces, and nephews, 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Friday, March 11 @ 2 pm at Holy Family Church located in Three Forks. Burial to follow at Willow Creek Cemetery. If you feel inclined, please share any fond memories or stories of Gordon with his family. They would appreciate hearing how he impacted the lives of those around him.

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Services Offered

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family. These include traditional funeral services, cremation options, memorial services, and celebration of life ceremonies. Their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized service that honors your loved one's memory and provides comfort to those who are grieving.

The Funeral Home Facility

The funeral home is located at 103 1st Avenue E., Three Forks, MT, 59752, and features a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The facility is designed to provide a comfortable and intimate setting for families to gather and pay their respects. With ample parking and easy accessibility, K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks is convenient for families from all over the region.

Pre-Planning Services

One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones is the gift of pre-planning. By making arrangements ahead of time, you can spare your family from having to make difficult decisions during an emotional time. K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks offers pre-planning services, allowing you to take control of your final wishes and ensure that your preferences are respected.

Cremation Options

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks understands that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families. That's why they offer a range of cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and traditional cremation with a funeral service. Their staff will guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand all of your options and make informed decisions.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks offers grief support and resources to help families navigate the healing process. From counseling services to support groups, their staff is committed to providing ongoing care and support long after the funeral service has ended.

Community Involvement

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks is deeply rooted in the local community and is committed to giving back. Their staff participates in various community events and charities throughout the year, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Contacting K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks

If you're looking for a funeral home that truly cares about you and your family, look no further than K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Three Forks. Contact them today to learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced staff members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a lasting tribute to the deceased, preserving their memory and legacy for generations to come.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend writes the obituary, although it can also be written by a funeral home or other authorized representative. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary typically includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about memorial services, donations in lieu of flowers, and other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life story. Generally, it should be concise yet informative, ranging from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful to those who read it.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

Contact the publication directly to learn about their submission process and guidelines. Some may accept submissions online, while others require email or phone submissions. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for a print or online publication.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituaries as part of their end-of-life planning. This can ensure that your story is told accurately and with your unique voice.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It is often used in addition to a full obituary.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice announcing a person's death and providing biographical information. A eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service, celebrating the person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries can be lighthearted and humorous, reflecting the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to keep it respectful and tasteful.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or controversies surrounding the deceased's life, it's best to approach them with sensitivity and tact. You may choose to omit certain details or focus on the positive aspects of their life.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary, providing insight into the person's values or personality.

What if I need to make corrections to an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication immediately if you need to make corrections. They will guide you through their process for making changes or issuing corrections.

Can I reuse an obituary on social media or other online platforms?

Yes! You can share an obituary on social media or other online platforms to reach a wider audience and allow more people to pay their respects.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online publications may publish immediately, while print publications may take several days or weeks.

Can I request changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, changes cannot be made once an obituary has been published. However, some publications may allow minor corrections or updates.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming. Consider seeking guidance from a funeral home director, family member, or close friend who knew the deceased well.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to suggest donations to a favorite charity or cause in lieu of traditional flowers or gifts.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?