K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall Obituaries

About K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall is a trusted funeral home located in the heart of Whitehall, Montana. With a rich history and a commitment to providing compassionate care, this funeral home has been serving the local community for years. At 109 W. 2nd Street, Whitehall, MT, 59759, K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall is easily accessible and offers a peaceful atmosphere for families to say their final goodbyes.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

At K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall, the team understands that losing a loved one is never easy. That's why they are dedicated to providing personalized funeral services that cater to each family's unique needs and preferences. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, the staff at K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall is committed to ensuring that every detail is taken care of with dignity and respect.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Gavin Tai Irish - October 01, 1962 - November 04, 2023

Departed: 11/04/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Gavin Tai Irish was called home unexpectedly to our loving Heavenly Father on November 4th , 2023, at the age of 61. He was born October 1, 1962, in Matamata, New Zealand. Tai was predeceased by his loving parents, Gary and Marilyn Irish. They cherished their only son and

championed his many accomplishments. He is survived by his sister Monique, husband Stuart and their children Gabrielle, Parker and

Skyler. Tai truly cherished and loved his baby sister who always viewed her brother as her hero. Tai’s legacy will continue to live on and burn bright through his eight loving children and their families. His daughter Amber & her two boys Jackson and Will. His daughter Amanda & husband Rob and their children Savannah, Claire & Joe. His son Austen & wife Aubray and their children Azlyn, Ryan, Rhett, Jocie and Ella. His son Adam & wife Selah. His son Tyson & wife Liana and daughter Finley. His son Andrew & wife Megan and their children Dallin, Quentin, Emma and Lucy. His son Aaric and daughter Olivia. And his youngest son, Ashten. His kids were a source of much pride and joy in his life. His dedication as a father is displayed through the values he instilled in his children and grandchildren to work hard, never complain and keep

going even when times get rough.

He is survived by his former spouses Suzanne and Merriann, loving mothers to his children. Tai was an exceptional, natural athlete. His immense strength and ability to run fast, made him a fierce competitor on the track and football field. At one time the local newspaper named him

“the fastest man east of the Mississippi”. Through his teens, Tai continued to excel in track and football. His local high school later inducted him into the Marshfield High School Hall of Fame, and he earned a scholarship to BYU

in football. In addition to being a great athlete, Tai was a gifted artist and had an amazing mind for building and engineering. He would draw detailed battle scenes with perfectly symmetrical architecture, a skill he learned from his father. From model airplanes, cars, and trains to building custom

homes, he was a “do-it-all” handyman, who could do anything. He was a real life “MacGyver”. Tai spent years in construction, building and telecommunications. The telecommunications industry took him from Spokane, Seattle, Portland, San Diego and Montana, his final resting

place. He even helped two of his sons start their careers in telecom. Tai was also an adventure seeker who relished in the outdoors as a skilled waterman. He had a great appreciation for God’s country. He loved the time with his kids camping, hunting, target shooting, off-roading and enjoyed the beach. Growing up in Marshfield, Massachusetts, he found much solace and peace on the waters and the rivers near his childhood home. He especially enjoyed sailing with his father. He was a skilled fisherman who always caught a fish, while others with him may not have. Childhood family outings with his parents and baby sister,

Monique, were cherished memories in his life. Tai was a gentle giant and when he spoke, people listened. For those that knew him best, he will have forever left a mark of adventure, laughter and enjoying life to the fullest. He is a

beloved son, father, brother, grandfather, and friend who will be greatly missed. On Friday November 19th at 6pm an evening memorial and dinner for family and close friends

will be held at Tyson Irish’s house in Pony, MT. A celebration of Tai’s life will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building in Three Forks, Montana on Saturday November 18th at 11am. Prior to the service a special remembrance and prayer will be held from 10:00am to 10:45am for family and close friends. Immediately following the funeral, there will be a luncheon at the church. Tai’s family

welcomes all who wish to pay their respects and celebrate Tai’s life to join them on this day.

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James R. Staedt - March 22, 1937 - October 26, 2023

Departed: 10/26/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: James “Jim” Ralph Staedt died peacefully at St. James Hospital in Butte, Montana on October 26, 2023 at the age

of 86. Jim is survived by his daughter Deborah (James) Arnot and his son James D. Staedt, his brother Ronald (Kathy) Staedt, his grandchildren Anna (Martin) Mata, Lacey (Dustin) Ostrander, Stephanie (Ryan) Kennedy, and Melissa (Tyler) Reid, his greatgrandchildren Shaedyn Mata, Brayden Ostrander, Kaia Reid, and Judah Reid, and four nephews Ron, John, Eric, and William Staedt.  He is preceded in death by his loving wife Dorothy Staedt, his

parents William Staedt and Thelma Lee Staedt, and his daughter Susan Marshall. Jim was born on March 22, 1937 in Chippawa, Ontario Canada. He became a U.S. citizen in 1960 and spent most of his life living in Three Forks and Whitehall, Montana.  He spent 30 years working at the cement plant in Trident,

MT before he retired and spent time volunteering within his community and enjoying the hobbies he loved. Jim was passionate about helping others and being a contributing member to his local communities.  His achievements and accomplishments were many: Bannock Shriner Clown since 1978; Past Director of Second Session, Shriner’s Bagdad Temple, Butte, MT; Past Master Three Forks Masonic Lodge #73; Past Master Mystic Tie Riverside Masonic Lodge #17; Scottish Rite, Butte, MT; Past President of Vigilante Welfare Association; Past

Worthy Patron, Order of Eastern Star, Boulder, CO and Three Forks, MT; Grand Knight of Knights of Colombus, St. Theresa’s, Whitehall, MT, Council #8375; Royal Order of Jesters #23, Butte, MT; Gallatin Desert Patrol; Volunteer

for St. Theresa’s Catholic Church and Whitehall Food Pantry. Jim loved his family, including his dogs Buttons, Toby, Buddy, and Pint. Jim worked as a Shriner Clown for years raising money through parades for Shriners Childrens Hospitals.  Jim enjoyed woodworking as a hobby and he liked gardening and sharing his home-grown vegetables with his friends and family.  He was an active and devout member of the St. Theresa’s Catholic Church. He was a dedicated member of the Whitehall and Butte

communities and he had many friends in the surrounding area. The memorial service is scheduled for Friday November 3, 2023 at 10:00am at the St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in

Whitehall, MT with a reception to follow at the same location. Father John Crutchfield will officiate the ceremony.

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Wayne Doney - May 09, 1949 - September 01, 2023

Departed: 09/01/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Wayne was born in Lewistown, MT. He was the second born son of Donald and Eileen Searby Doney, following his brother Alan Doney, the family moved to Butte, MT in 1951 and enlarged their family with one more son Gordon Doney, who preceded Wayne in death and three daughters, Barbara Doney Conavad and husband Pete Conavad, Kim Doney Boyle and husband Tom Boyle, and Jill Doney Clements and husband Rich Clements.

Wayne married his wife Debbie Atkins Doney on March 30, 1974 and had two sons in Butte, Gordon Doney and Joe Doney. They moved to Green River, WY in 1979 where they had a daughter, Chanci Doney LeMay, who was born in Butte while visiting. Wayne and his wife raised two of their grandchildren Bradley Morrison, starting (at age 2&1/2), and Audrey Morrison (14 months). We were also blessed with three more wonderful granddaughters, Bella Doney, Krysta Doney, and Naomi Doney and another grandson, Jacob Doney, who preceded Wayne in death.

Wayne worked from 1979 until 2014 for F.M.C. Trona Mine. After retiring in 2014 Wayne moved his family to Whitehall, MT.

Wayne and Debbie’s lives have been blessed by many nieces, nephews, sisters and brother-in-laws, cousins, aunts, uncles, mother-in-law (Bertie Hunt Grasser), and friends who were as close as family.

Services will be held at The Assembly of God Church 6 E. 1st St. Whitehall, MT, at noon on September 23rd with Pastor Bill Lanes officiating. There will be a potluck in the church after the service.

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Leonard Albert Jones - October 17, 1936 - July 20, 2023

Departed: 07/20/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Leonard Jones, 86, of Whitehall, passed away July 20, 2023, of age-related causes.

Leonard Albert Jones was born October 17, 1936, in Columbia Falls, MT as the fourth child of Benjamin Franklin Jones, Jr., and Nancy Fern (McCord) Jones.

Leonard was a year old when his father died of blood poisoning, and his mother and family returned to Fairbury, Nebraska, where she could be with family. They later migrated to Ashton, Idaho, where he attended St. Anthony, Parker, and Sugar City School Systems until he was 16. He quit school and moved to Baker, Idaho, to work on a cattle ranch with his older brother Lyle and his family.

Leonard said because he was born in the Depression era, he would never get the advantage of traveling the world much, so at the age of 19, he joined the United States Airforce. He spent four years serving in Germany and France. Upon returning from his service, he attended Ricks College in Rexburg, ID.

While working in Baker, ID, he met the woman who would become his bride of over 60 years, Carolyn Hartvigson. They were married on November 21, 1962, at the local LDS church in Baker, and five years later, they were sealed for eternity in the Idaho Falls, ID LDS Temple.

Leonard was working in the dairy business, and an older fellow offered to sell his 160 acres of land bordering the great Mud Lake near Terreton, ID, to the young couple. But plans changed because Leonard developed severe allergies. After seeing numerous doctors and specialists, they determined he could not live in the area because of his allergies to the native plants.

He went back to school in Huntington Beach, California, to hone up on his electronics background. He moved the family to Soda Springs, ID, where he was a radio engineer and salesman, plus a DJ for KBRV radio. The station sold seven months later. They moved to Pocatello, ID, where he was a Tower Engineer for KEIV station. He then found employment with KXLF TV as a Tower Engineer in Butte, MT. Instead of living in Butte, they moved to the small community of Whitehall. While working for the station, he drove school buses, did custom hay swathing, and worked at a local lumber yard.

In 1975, Leonard was proud to purchase a home with 10 acres to raise their five children and bring their livestock home from Idaho. Leonard and Carolyn wanted to teach their five children to have a good work ethic by living in the country with chores to do.

After the TV station went remote, Leonard also worked as a supervisor for the Weed Spraying division of Jefferson County. He then became a full-time over-the-road trucker driving for Howard and Jim Clark, Safeway, West's Best, and S&T Trucking. He went all over the western United States and into Canada and hauled everything from cattle to groceries and everything in between.

In 1989, Leonard began working for Magnum Oil, traveling from Butte, MT, to Oklahoma weekly. He was presented with a coat in recognition of driving 2 million accident-free miles. He finally worked for Whitehall Trucking, where he retired in 2011. He frequently took his wife and children on trips with him, which everyone enjoyed.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Leonard and his wife Carolyn served three service missions for the Church. The first two were at the Mormon Handcart Church History Sites in Lander, WY. The last one involved overseeing the vehicles and housing of the young missionaries serving in the Billings Mission (Butte Stake). He held the office of a High Priest in the priesthood and served in Young Men's Organizations, as a Cub Scout Leader, and three times as Sunday School President. Leonard loved auctions, garage sales, talking, and driving. He collected comic strips, books, hats, coats, and gloves. He could never have enough of them!!! When he was younger, his stepdad and he would put model airplanes together. A highlight in his life was when his eldest son flew him back to Minnesota for a huge Swap Meet. He was like “a little kid on Christmas Day.”

Leonard is preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr., mother Nancy Fern McCord Jones and Step-Father Emerson Wilcox, and his three siblings, Edward Wayne Jones, Evelyn Nina Jensen, Sidney Lyle Jones, and their spouses.

Surviving family includes his wife of 61 years, Carolyn Mae Hartvigson, and his children son-Easton (Brenda) Jones of Whitehall, son-Weston (Cathy) Jones of Darby, MT, daughter-Lexton Jones of Belgrade, MT, son-Duston (Tanya) Jones of Mesa, AZ, and daughter-Creston Jones of Belgrade, MT. 8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and one on the way.

Services will be on July 27th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Whitehall, MT, with viewing at 9:30 am, services at 10 am, and interment at the Whitehall Cemetery to follow. Streaming of the funeral services can be accessed using the following link: Leonard Jones Funeral Service

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Ervin Lee Hedegaard - March 21, 1937 - July 09, 2023

Departed: 07/09/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Ervin (Babe) Hedegaard passed away on July 9, 2023 at his home in Whitehall, Montana. He was born in Twin Bridges, MT on March 21st, 1937, the son of Nicolie (Nick) Hedegaard and Ada Wolfe.

Erv graduated from Twin Bridges High School where he was salutatorian, class president, and attended Boy’s State. He enjoyed sports, playing the saxophone, and spending time with his family. He is a member of the Twin Bridges Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1952 Championship Football Team. Erv (Babe) had five older siblings: Melvin Nyhart, Gladys (Nyhart) Davenport, Louise (Edwards) Mantha, Donald Hedegaard, and Shirley (Nyhart) Hall.

During his senior year at Montana State College in Bozeman, he met Judith Faye Mahlum of Big Timber. Erv graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1960. Erv and Judi married on December 27th, 1960, and raised three children: Donna, Karen and Mike. Erv spent 34 years at Montana Power Company, retiring as the Director of Power Operations in 1999.

For the first eleven years of their marriage, Erv and Judi moved sixteen times, culminating in their final move to Whitehall in 1971. Erv was active in the Zion Lutheran Church (Elder), Lutherans for Life, Toastmasters (former president), Jaycees (former president), IEEE, Young Republicans (former president), and Butte Rescue Mission. He received the 1979 Community Service Award for the 11 western states making up Region 6 of the IEEE, selected from over 36,000 members. Erv was active in Rotary for over 30 years. He served as a member and president of the Whitehall Rotary club, District Governor of Rotary for Montana, was named a Benefactor for the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow for Rotary International. Erv was a math genius and volunteered as a tutor for Math Counts at Butte Christian/Home Schools, leading the students in competitions in Montana. He was a founding member and chairman of the Jefferson Valley Community Foundation. He served as a judge for the Butte Junior Miss Pagent for two years. Erv was inducted into the Whitehall High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017 for his contributions to the school community, including being a member and President of the school board, team photographer for numerous sports, religiously attending athletic competitions, and keeping individual stats. He worked on the fund-raising effort to create the Whitehall Medical Clinic and served on the Board of Directors. Erv volunteered as an instructor for 55 Alive, an AARP Driver Safety Program, for many years. He was a proud Montana State Bobcat and attended all of his college reunions.

Erv was known for supporting his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and his nieces and nephews in every sporting event, recital, major life events, and with providing sage wisdom. He enjoyed playing Bridge and Pinochle and was frequently in tournaments in Butte. In his later years he just played for fun with friends and family.

Erv was preceded in death by his parents, his step mother Vina (Nyhart) Hedegaard, three of his siblings, his wife Judi and his daughter Karen.

He is survived by his daughter Donna Hedegaard, son Mike (Christy) Hedegaard, along with his four grandchildren, Doug O’Reilly, Danielle O’Reilly, Karen Hedegaard, and Sofia Hedegaard, his sisters Gladys and Shirley, and brother-in-law Joe Mahlum.

A memorial service will be held at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church of Whitehall on Saturday, August 12th at 11am, followed by food and fellowship.

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Robert L. Perry - November 19, 1947 - May 02, 2023

Departed: 05/02/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” Lawrence Perry (b. November 19, 1947) passed away on May 2, 2023 surrounded by his family. It is difficult to summarize such a full and eventful life but let us try.

While originally hailing from California’s central valley, he called Montana home for 44 years. He was born and raised in Los Banos, California until the age of 17 when he joined the Marines. After completing bootcamp, he was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 where he distinguished himself with his wit, quick thinking, bravery, and mischievousness. He left Vietnam in 1968, highly decorated, his numerous honors and medals include: the Bronze Star, several purple hearts, the Navy & Marine Commendation w/1 star, the Presidential Unit Citation for Extraordinary Heroism, the Navy Unit Citation with a Combat V, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal w/4 stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and pistol and rifle sharpshooter badges just to name a few.

After returning stateside, he attended California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo where he earned a degree in Ag Management. He loved rodeo and won championships in bulls and bareback broncs. He went on to manage the Cherokee Santa Gertrudis ranch in Colorado where he met the love of his life, Rosemary Phillipps, at a party thrown by the ranch owner, Mildred “Tweet” Kimball. They were married in Maryland on April 16, 1977.

Bob and Rosemary eventually found their way to Montana where they raised their daughters with their shared love of horses, the outdoors, and adventure. He was an expert marksman, and taught his girls how to shoot, instilling in them the importance of gun safety and responsible ownership. He took them fishing and camping. He was an amazing cook and dedicated foodie and passed that onto his girls as well. Among his many talents, he could rebuild a car engine one day, build a house the next–doing all the carpentry, plumbing, and electrical–as well as building his own computers with ease. An avid Louis L’Amour fan, he read every one of his books multiple times.

He had a reverence for education, intelligence, and critical thinking and no one dared play him in Trivial Pursuit.

He brought some demons home with him from Vietnam, but that never stopped him from being a hero to his daughters and a kind and generous heart to those in need. He was a true cowboy to the end and will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Rosemary; his daughters Maria Bosch (Matt) and 2 grandchildren (Kelcey & Joseph), Frances Perry, and Danielle Perry (Andrew Paul); and his brother, William “Billy”. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard “Dicky”, parents, and other loved ones.

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Debra Jean Wiersema - October 25, 1953 - April 26, 2023

Departed: 04/26/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Debra Jean Cramer was born on October 25th, 1953 and peacefully passed on April 26th with her daughters by her side.

She grew up in Kankakee, Illinois and met her husband Albert @ Grant Park High School. They married in June 1970, and celebrated their 51st year in 2021. The young couple and their 3 girls moved to Manhattan Montana, where they completed their family with adding a son.

Debra was a stay at home mom until the kids where in middle school. She worked on the potato harvesting crews and then became a full-time cook at Churchill retirement Home until she retired in 1992. She spent many years babysitting her grandchildren.

Debra was preceded in death by her husband Albert Wiersema and her son Albert Wiersema Jr. and her parents, Tom, and Jean Cramer; and her brother Bob Cramer. Debra is survived by her three daughters, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is survived by her sister, Lynn Lewis and brother Tom Cramer; and many nieces and nephews

Debra’s graveside services will be Tuesday May 2nd at the Churchill Cemetery.

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Harriet Afton Fell - October 20, 1937 - April 26, 2023

Departed: 04/26/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Harriet “ Afton” Fell, Born October 20,1937. Died in her sleep 4/26/23.

Born to Harry Amos Shaw Jr. and Jessie Cooper Shaw, the oldest of 3 girls. She was dad’s right hand. Harnessing the horses with Dixies help. Farming, ranching and involved in 4-H. Also, a passionate horse woman. Schooled in Cardwell Elementary and Whitehall High, Montana. She met Eldon Fell at a reception at Pipestone Hot Springs.

They were married December 31, 1955.  Ranching in Harrison, MT for 12 years and sell the ranch and move back to Cardwell. She started her bus driving career of 30 plus years. In 72, they bought the store at Cardwell. After Eldon became ill, they closed the store, and she started custodian work at Whitehall Schools. After retiring from the school, she still drove the bus and started her new passion with animal rescue as a founding member of 4-paws.

She took on every project with passion. Quilting, Knitting, Sewing, Crocheting, gardening, and cooking.

She now joins her husband Eldon, parents, brother in laws, Dick Rennie, Sonny Huckaba, Doug Fell and granddaughter in-law, Jennifer Levengood.

She is survived by her children, Harriet Held (Frank) of Drummond, Wanda Levengood (Bill) of Whitehall, Chris Fell of Butte. Grandchildren, John Levengood, Laura Levengood, DVM, (Richard), Frankie Gregory (Jeremy), Rachel Hayes (Ronnie), Serena Koepplin (Ron), 14 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Also survived by her sisters, Dixie Rennie and Susie Huckaba , in-laws Anny Osmen (Gale), June Judy (Jeffrey)Carrol Tang (Long), Barbara Hotton (Dennis), Pat Hendrian (Jerry), and Richard Fell.

Services at LDS Church in Whitehall, June 9th at 10:00 AM. Burial at South Boulder Cemetery to follow services.

Reception will follow at LDS Church in Whitehall.

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Karolyn Kay Hillstead - November 20, 1947 - April 14, 2023

Departed: 04/14/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Karolyn Hillstead (Ferlet) was born on November 20, 1947 to Warren and Ethel Ferlet and passed away on April 14, 2023 with her best friend by her side. She leaves behind two daughters, Kim and Jennifer, along with 5 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild as well as her best friend Jackie Ingraham.

Karolyn was a dedicated mother who treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Grandma aka Bomba. Karolyn was passionate about animals and never turned one away that was in need. Her dog, Suki, was her baby and she loved her like another child.

The family wishes to thank everyone that has reached out offering kind words of support during this difficult time. Karolyn was a kind, loving, selfless woman and she will be greatly missed.

Karolyn did not want a formal funeral however if you wish to pay your respects, please go to The Mint Bar on May 7th, 2023 at 2pm and raise a glass to an amazing woman.

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Daniel G. Segovia - July 21, 1955 - April 05, 2023

Departed: 04/05/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: He was always laughing, smiling, or telling jokes.

When you think of Daniel Segovia, that’s the first thing that pops into everyone’s head. His good nature and positivity, his sense of humor and constant ribbing of anyone – young or old – and his love of catching up with people around town, sometimes at great length.

Daniel Gabriel Segovia was born on July 21, 1955, in Edinburg, TX to Ruperta and Gabriel Segovia. He was the second youngest of six boys in a family of migrant workers, who traveled up and down the western United States, from Texas to Idaho, and as far east as Oklahoma.

Dan was the first in his family to graduate high school, getting that honor from Wilder High School in Wilder, ID. He went on to graduate from Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, OR, with a degree in Applied Wildland Fire Science, as the first in his family to graduate college.

After working on the Snake River Valley fire crew with his dad and brothers after high school, then attending college, Dan started his career with the Forest Service in 1980, as a wildland firefighter in Oregon, where he eventually met his future wife, Jackie Renn, who was also working with the Forest Service.

Always the charmer, Dan asked Jackie out to the movies, and managed to coax a kiss out of her before the date even started.

They were married on November 30, 1984. Dan loved family, so he and Jackie expanded theirs, having his daughter Lea in 1987, and son Mannie in 1989, both born in Oregon.

His job with the Forest Service took the family from Burns, Oregon to Whitehall, MT, in 1994, where they bought a house and put down roots in the community. He retired from the Forest Service as a Fuels G.I.S. Specialist in 2004. Dan continued to work locally, as an Internet Installation technician with TeleSystem Services until 2018, when his battle with cancer began.

Dan’s passions were wide-ranging and included family, animals – but especially dogs, coaching his kids, baseball, running, karate, being in the mountains and outdoors, gold panning, four-wheeling, fishing, hiking, cooking, gardening, the color hot pink, the Montana Grizzlies, the Boston Red Sox, the Oakland (now Vegas) Raiders, and of course one of his favorite things was to make people laugh.

Always a fighter, he beat his multiple myeloma into remission for the better part of five years, despite also suffering kidney failure as a result of the cancer. In 2022 the myeloma relapsed and, though he continued to battle hard a second time, Dan Segovia passed away peacefully in his home on April 5, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1988, and his oldest brother, Rosalio, in 2006. He is survived by his wife Jackie, daughter Lea, son Mannie (Danno), mother Ruperta, and brothers Frank, Miguel, Pedro, and Leo, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

The family doesn’t plan on holding any services, but request instead that in honor of Dan: spend some time outdoors, love each other fiercely, and most importantly, make someone smile or laugh each day, for Dan.

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Robert Lee Davis - March 19, 1931 - March 26, 2023

Departed: 03/26/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Bob's family moved from Edina, Missouri, to Dillon, Montana in 1941.

From a barefoot boy in bib overalls to the capital steps to shake hands with President Harry S. Truman as a boy's state delegate from Montana, Bob lived an adventurous life. His many adventures included rounding up wild horses, hunting with hounds, nine years National Guard service, rodeoing, carpentry and ranching. Bob graduated from Montana Western College with a B.S. in Industrial Arts and a minor in Math. He preferred ranching over teaching with the philosophy that the cows didn't talk back.

Bob married Sandra Pressley October of 1957. Bob and Sandy had three children – Virginia, Cindy and Joel.

In 1968 Bob and Sandy moved to the Whitehall/Cardwell area purchasing a small ranch in 1970 near Cardwell. That is where Bob spent the rest of his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents - Bob and Elva Davis, a brother and sister-in-law - John and Doris Davis, a sister and brother-in-law - Jean and Pete White, and a niece - Lori Ann Davis.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy, his three children, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ranching was his passion.

A celebration of Bob's life will take place June 10th. Please join us 1 pm at the Whitehall Community Center, 11 N. Division St., Whitehall, Montana.

Please place any memorial donations to the Montana Western Rodeo Team c/o Iola Else, University of Montana Western, Dillon Montana 59725; the Whitehall Veterans c/o Whitehall Community Center, Whitehall Montana 59759 or donor's choice.

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Jennie Lee McArthur - September 21, 1936 - March 25, 2023

Departed: 03/25/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Jennie Lee (Armstrong) McArthur was called home to our Lord on March 25, 2023.

Jennie was born September 21, 1936 to George M. Armstrong and Juanita (Ballard) Armstrong. Jennie was raised on the family ranch in the Cardwell area and attended school at Cardwell Elementary and Whitehall High School.

Jennie married Bob McArthur and six sons came to bless their home over the years.

The family spent 10 years living in the Upper Ruby working for the Garden Creek Stock Association, and many years at the Circle S Ranch in Dillon where Bob cowboyed and Jennie cooked for the Circle S crew. Bob worked for the Sitz Angus Ranch for nearly 20 years as their cowboy and Jennie was always by his side. Jennie and her favorite horse Jingle-Bob always made a great pair. Jennie also worked for several years at the Fish, Wildlife and Parks sign shop in Whitehall, retiring in 2000.

Jennie had many hobbies including sewing, cooking, gardening, woodworking and she always had beautiful flower gardens.

Jennie was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her father George M. Armstrong, her mother Juanita Armstrong, her brother George Melvin Armstrong and her brother James Armstrong.

She is survived by her sister Janice Carmody, sister Gay (Dave) Forsman, brother Forest Armstrong, and sons, Leonard McArthur, Bob McArthur, Ken (Lori) McArthur, Jerry (Sheri) McArthur, Rick McArthur, Mike (Vickie) McArthur, 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Cardwell Community Church at 795 MT-359 Cardwell Montana or to the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center at P. O. Box 308 in Sheridan Montana 59749.

Services will be held at the Cardwell Community Church on Saturday April 15, 2023 at 3:00 PM with Rev. William Grinder officiating. Interment will follow at the South Boulder Cemetery at Cardwell followed by a luncheon at the Church.

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Anthony Joseph Brahmstadt - August 15, 2001 - March 12, 2023

Departed: 03/12/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Anthony Joseph (AJ) Brahmstadt, of Bozeman, Montana, passed away tragically on March 12, 2023, at the young age of 21.

AJ was a cherished son, brother, friend, and coworker, whose infectious personality left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

Born on August 15, 2001, to parents Mark and Kalli Brahmstadt, AJ was one of four brothers, each of whom he loved and valued deeply. AJ graduated from Clackamas High School in 2020 and was currently pursuing his degree in economics at Montana State University, where he was set to graduate in December of 2023.

While he loved school, AJ was truly at his happiest when spending time with those he loved. Whether he was watching an MSU football game, hunting, hiking, fishing, or experimenting with new recipes on his smoker, AJ's boundless energy and enthusiasm made him a beloved friend to many. Even though he moved from Wisconsin at an early age, he remained a lifelong Badger fan and would watch every basketball and football game he could.

AJ's love for his family and friends was matched only by his passion for his work at Pyramid Concrete. He was respected and admired by his colleagues for his strong work ethic and his unwavering commitment to friendship.

AJ's untimely passing is a profound loss to all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving parents, his brothers Nathan (Megen) Brahmstadt, Tyler (Melanie Lopez) Brahmstadt, and Reese Brahmstadt, as well as countless friends and colleagues who will miss his charming smile and his boundless energy.

Details of AJ's Celebration of Life will be announced in the coming days.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will be cherished forever.

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Julia Belle Stratton - July 21, 1929 - February 09, 2023

Departed: 02/09/2023 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Julia Belle “Judy” passed away February 9 from natural causes. She was born July 21,1929, at home in Pleasant Valley, south of Whitehall, to William and Myrtle Gillespie. Arriving two years after the death of brother Donald, she joined her older brother, Raymond. She was raised to be a typical ranch girl, helping with all aspects of that life. Judy could milk a cow, drive a team of horses, sew her own clothes, and cook or can food. She attended school in Whitehall, played basketball, was active in 4-H, and formed many lifelong friendships.

Her aspiration was to be a nurse, that changed after an incident with a team of horses resulted in a broken arm the summer prior to nursing school. It was also around that time she met William (Bill) Stratton at a dance in Waterloo, MT. They married June 26, 1948, and shared their lives together for 50 years. Their journey together began with ranching in Waterloo. They later moved to the Highlands and ran the Stratton Sawmill. In 1959, they settled at Cedar Hills, building their home and establishing the Stratton Ranch, which continues to this day.

Ranch life was her passion, always helping Bill, then son, Frank, with the cows and other chores. She enjoyed gardening, her yard, and flowers grown in her greenhouse. Judy sewed clothes for daughters, Joan, Judiann, and Jane. She also created beautiful formals, bridesmaid, and wedding dresses. After retirement she quilted, making quilts for all the grandchildren’s weddings. Judy was a 4-H leader, teaching and helping others learn to sew. She was active with the Highland Mountaineers 4-H club and a lifetime member of Eastern Star. Her crafting skills were extensive. For relaxation of an evening, she would crochet a doily while watching TV.

Even though she never acquired a nursing degree, she helped and cared for many people. From foster kids, bachelor friends and neighbors, to recuperating sick and injured family members and friends, there was always a place in our home for an extra person. A cup of tea with a homemade treat was the norm when stopping in to visit. Not only people received her attention but sick and orphaned animals as well. It would not be unusual to have a newborn calf by the basement fire or a bottle-fed calf, lamb, piglet or, on occasion, a foal in the corral.

Judy's precise and accurate tendencies guided her to be the School Board Clerk for the Highland One Room School when they lived in the Highlands. She was the School Board Clerk for the Whitehall School for 18 years and retired from St James Healthcare after working Medical Records 10 years.

Judy was proceeded in death by her parents, husband William (Bill), daughter Joan, brothers Donald and Raymond.

She is survived by son Frank (LaFay) Stratton, Judiann (Jim) Williams, Jane (Kevin) Johnson. Grandchildren Arica (Kory) Klapan, Tyson (Melissa) Stratton, Sarah Stratton, Jennifer (Matt) Van Syckle, Kristin Johnson and Lisa Johnson. Great grandchildren Kendra, Karson and Kaylee Klapan, Lexi, Trevin and Holden Stratton, Evan, Ayla and Lucy Teeples, Hadrian and Freya Van Syckle. Sister-in-law Ellen Gillespie, and numerous nieces and nephews.

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Robert E Sims - July 13, 1940 - December 01, 2022

Departed: 12/01/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Robert (Bob) Sims passed away on December 1, 2022. He is survived by Connie, his wife of 57 years, his daughter Marlene Welch, his son-in-law Cory Welch, and grandson Caleb.

Bob's family moved to Florida in 1955, and he later attended the University of Florida, earning a Master's of Engineering in 1965. Bob worked at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft for nearly 30 years and was involved in multiple aerospace and defense projects throughout his career. Bob was outstanding in his field, earning the United Technology's George Mead award for Engineering Excellence.

Bob retired in 1993, and he and Connie began a new adventure with a cattle ranch in Montana. For 30 years, Bob and Connie ran a successful cow/calf operation. As a rancher, Bob was often out standing in his field. Bob was also active in the community, participating in and leading various organizations that benefitted the area.

Bob's wisdom, wit, and genuine concern will be missed by all who knew him. A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, December 11, 2022 from 1 to 3pm at the ranch.

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Julian Wilson Norville - April 05, 1926 - November 26, 2022

Departed: 11/26/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Julian was born on April 5, 1926, to Hugh Weston and Helen May Norville in Grand Rapids, North Dakota. They lived in Larimore, North Dakota then in Lodgegrass, Montana, for a number of years before moving to Waterloo, Montana.

Julian attended high school in Whitehall, Montana. After graduation, he studied mechanical engineering for two years at MSU before moving to Cardwell, Montana, in 1949, to pursue what he really wanted to do – ranching.

To pay for the ranch and improvements, Julian took on several side jobs. He constructed fence for the forest service, did concrete work, worked highway construction, taught as a substitute teacher and drove the bus for sporting events.

On November 27, 1959, Julian married Nancy Sue Curry. Together, they raised four children. He taught his children many of his skills including fencing, concrete work, equipment operating, and machine repair. He also imparted his knowledge of math, farming and ranching.

In his older years, Julian enjoyed some traveling. He and Sue traveled to the East Coast to visit their daughter and granddaughter. They also made three trips to Fairbanks, Alaska, to visit their middle son and family.

For fun, Julian liked a good game of pinochle or cribbage. He enjoyed playing cribbage with his grandkids. He also enjoyed reading western novels and watching western movies. Reloading and shooting were relaxing hobbies as well.

After the passing of his beloved wife in January 2020, Julian looked forward to joining Sue in Heaven. He rejoined her in the presence of their Lord, passing peacefully in his sleep one day before their 63rd wedding anniversary.

Julian was preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Helen Norville and his daughter- in-law, Nancy Jo Norville.

He is survived by his brother Hugh Weston (Millie) Norville, his children Tim (Tammie) Norville, Wes (Cherylynn) Norville, Mike Norville, and Sally (Jason) Ehret, his grandchildren Matt (Carmen) Norville, Mark (Courtney) Norville, Randy (Ashley) Norville, Angie (Paul) Sather, Melinda Norville, Kaylie Wynn (Justin Sylvester),Lisa Ehret, and eleven great grandchildren.

All memorials may be sent to Cardwell Community Church at 795 Hwy 359, Cardwell, MT 59721.

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George Melvin Armstrong - October 29, 1938 - November 16, 2022

Departed: 11/16/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: George Melvin Armstrong, Jr. went to be with His Lord and Savior on November 16, 2022, surrounded by his family who loved him dearly.

He was born the second of six children to George and Juanita Armstrong. He went through grade 8 at Cardwell the graduated from Whitehall High School. While working for the forest service, he started operating the family ranch with his father who was limited by Multiple Sclerosis. Eventually he purchased the Cardwell ranch as home.

He married Fay Elizabeth Reynolds on August 15, 1964, in Whitehall then raised three children: Rhea, Susan, and Chad.

Melvin was known for his sense of humor, quick-witted sarcasm, and poetry. He enjoyed hard work, hunting, telling a good story, and sharing a drink with friends. He served on the cemetery board, the wool pool, the Cardwell Church board, and on the local grazing association. He was quick to provide summer jobs to growing kids – the experienced were soon operating all equipment while the less experienced painted the ranch into varying colors. His offer of a “family picnic” really meant a fence repair up in the mountains … sardines, Vienna sausages, and soda pop. He loved children – wrestling with his nephews then later his children, taking grandchildren on 4-wheeler rides, or giving church children candy where he was known as “the Smarty Man.”

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother and sister-in-law James and Quotele Armstrong, and brothers-in-law James Carmody and Robert McArthur.

He is survived by his children Rhea; Susan and sons Justin (Sharon), Jeremy (Maureen), and Logan (Abby); Chad (Trista) and daughter Kyra, sons Klancy (Emmie) and Kaden; four great-grandchildren; sisters Jenny Lee McArthur, Janice Carmody, Gay (Dave) Forsman; and brother Forest Armstrong.

All memorials may be sent to Cardwell Community Church at 795 Hwy 359, 59721.

Funeral services are Friday, November 25 at 11:00 am at the Cardwell Community Church.

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Daniel Thomas Volz - April 23, 1968 - October 27, 2022

Departed: 10/27/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Daniel Thomas Volz passed away on October 27th, 2022 surrounded by family at the age of 54 after a courageous battle with cancer. Even in his final week of life, Dan continued to display his kind-hearted and joking nature, delighting his family with small jokes and pranks from his recliner. He will always be remembered for his kind-hearted nature; strong work ethic; love of family, cooking, and eating; and chatting with everyone he meets.

Dan was born in Deckerville, Michigan on April 23, 1968. He graduated from Ubly High School, being heavily involved in FFA and earning his Eagle Scout. He then received an associate’s degree in dairy technology from Michigan State University. He and his dad ran the Volz family dairy farm in Minden City. In addition to caring for the cows, he also loved driving tractors and creating order in nature.

He met Brenda Sacry at a church young adult camp and they were married in 1989.  In 2002, Dan and Brenda moved their family to Whitehall, Montana where Brenda grew up.

He continued his vibrant life becoming deeply involved with the Whitehall community, including organizing children soccer leagues, planting a community garden, coordinating a volleyball league, and dedicating countless hours to the Whitehall Community of Christ Church. While carpet cleaning, lawn mowing (an extension of his love of farm machines and nature), and snow shoveling, he loved to chat with everyone he encountered.

Dan is survived by his wife, Brenda Volz; his parents, Dale and Esther Volz; his children, Travis Volz and wife Amy, Darcy Robbins and husband Ke’Vionne, and Erica Ronsberg and husband Kyle; and his siblings, Sheila Robbe and Todd Volz as well as their families.

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Wendell David Oliverson - May 03, 1940 - August 24, 2022

Departed: 08/24/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Wendell Oliverson, age 82, passed away peacefully at home August 24, 2022, due to lung cancer.

Wendell, aka Dave, was born in Franklin, ID on May 3, 1940 to Wendell W. Oliverson and Karma Porter. He was raised on an alfalfa farm in Franklin, ID until his parents moved him and his sister Janet Schuh to Alder, MT where Wendell milked 15 cows to help the family run the Alder Rest Home and the Oxbow Cafe. Wendell went to Sheridan High School where he played basketball and participated in FFA. A couple of months before the end of his senior year, his family moved back to Franklin, ID, where he graduated from Preston High School.

Wendell married IvaLou Bennett and they raised five boys on 80 acres in Cardwell, MT, Kevin (Katy), Kurtis (Jennifer), David (Britta), Dwayne (Jill), and Burdean (Jeanette). Watching his sons grow up playing basketball and track turned him into a passionate sports super-fan, being their biggest cheerleader. Whether it was hyping up the fans of the Whitehall Trojans, or following his granddaughter Kailee and the Twin Bridges Lady Falcons to multiple state tournaments, he loved supporting all his grandchildren if and when he could. He had the same fervent passion with bringing back the bluebird population in Montana. His thousands of remaining bluebird boxes will be part of his legacy.

Wendell cherished his membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in various callings throughout his life, including serving a mission with his wife. He had an unwavering testimony and exemplified the love of the Savior through his love and service to others.

Wendell is survived by his wife of 60 years, IvaLou Bennett Oliverson, his sister Janet Schuh (Jerry), his five boys and their spouses, fifteen grandchildren, Brandon, Skiler, Josh, Aiden, Zach, Sarah, Rebecca, Michael, Noah, Kailee, Kyra, Aleah, Maddy, Logan, Chantel, and six great grandchildren.

Wendell did not want any fuss like a funeral or service of any kind so a small family only grave dedication will take place the first week of September. Thank you to all who knew him, laughed with him, and loved him. He has found the peace he was seeking these last couple of months.

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Vera Mae Jensen - March 31, 1929 - August 01, 2022

Departed: 08/01/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Vera Jensen was born in Colfax, Washington, March 31, 1929 to Charles and Ivy Watson. She was the youngest of six girls, hence the nickname, Tince. Her family moved from Pullman, WA. to the Fife area near Tacoma where Vera graduated valedictorian of her class. In 1948, she married Lynn Jensen when he returned from the Pacific Theater serving in the Marines. She had great pleasure in sharing family history and stories. Her memory was amazing, the stories were always the same!

Lynn and Vera lived in Tacoma where Jenny and Jack were born. In 1960, the family moved to Lake Cushman on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington. Tince loved the smell of the woods, skiing, and ice skating.

In 2007, the Jensen’s moved to Whitehall where Vera had a yard full of flowers, one of her joys, and a rhubarb plant to share. Early on she became involved in the Ladie’s Auxiliary (Country Store). She made fast friends with the crew and loved to help the customers find just what they needed.

Tince gave generously to the Jefferson Valley Ambulance (PULSE) enabling them to get established. She believed in their concern for their fellow man and in their medical expertise.

Time spent with Granny at campfires, tea parties (with lots of sugar), and playing board games was precious; she was pretty much engaged in living! She loved all animals, especially dogs. Tince even worried about the sheep with six-inch wool fleeces when a blizzard blew in.

Vera was at home in her gardening gloves as well as her heels and dress gloves. She was strong and independent. Her unwavering spiritual purpose guided her living. Granny left us with her gifts of love, support, and a beautiful example.

Tince will be missed by Jack / Kathy Jensen, Emiley / Godfrey Onaya, Annie Mae / Anthony Palermo, Jenny / Dave Scott, Will / Sally Scott, Ruth, and Lincoln, Maggie /Ott Clark, Milo, and a bunch of family and friends.

Flowers or donations to Pulse (P.O Box 511, Whitehall, MT 59759) may be made in Vera’s honor.

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Joseph E Ruckdaschel - January 17, 1957 - June 14, 2022

Departed: 06/14/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Joseph E Ruckdaschel was born Jan 17, 1957 to Kenneth and Shirley Ruckdaschel, the fourth of seven children.

Joe passed away peacefully at home after battling cancer. Joe graduate from Butte High in 1975, and then joined the Army. Upon discharge from the Army, he met Rhonda and they were married in 1980. They had two children, Doris and Kenny. Joe went to work as a mechanic in Dillon. He then left that job and went to work on the Matador Ranch. Later, the family moved to Whitehall, and he worked for Mike Franich. Joe really enjoyed doing ranch work or just being on his horse. Joe loved hunting and sitting around the fire just staring into the flames eating peanuts, and drinking a bud. It was like it calmed him.

Joe is survived by his wife Rhonda (Joanie), daughter Doris and (Jae) Ermy, and son Ken, brothers Larry (Linda), Keith (Nila), sisters Kathy, Monica, Marcia (Al) Shields, and Teresa (Tony). In-laws Doreen Matteson, Howard, Ray (Fran), Debbie, and Rob Matteson, and Wanda and Al Olson. Also, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends Dave Franich, Dave Camper, and Art Crain.

He was preceded in death by parents Kenneth and Shirley, grandparents Orville and Rose Ruckdaschel, Gus and Louise Nastansky, and many relations too numerous to mention.

A service will be held in Whitehall at the Assembly of God church June 25, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.

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Norman Ridder - December 22, 1932 - June 09, 2022

Departed: 06/09/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Norman Victor Ridder passed away on Thursday, June 9, 2022. He was born on December 22, 1932, at the farm home of Joseph and Johanna (Kerschen) Ridder. He was one of five children. Norman attended Elementary School in Marienthal, KS and then helped his dad and brothers on the farm.

Norman married Julianna Kessler on June 16, 1952, and they had five children. They took over his father’s farm until 1964 when they sold the farm to his brother and moved to Plains, MT where they had bought a ranch. In 1967 they sold the ranch in Plains and moved to another ranch in St. Ignatius, MT. In 1974 they sold this ranch and moved to ranch they had purchased on the Whitetail in Whitehall, MT. Later Norman and Julie sold the ranch and “retired” staying busy with their large yard and gardens. He was a founding member and active in St. Teresa’s Knights of Columbus.

Preceding Norman in death was the love of his life Julie, infant son Dennis, infant daughter Marjorie, son Darrell, sister Frieda Graff, and brothers Joe, Jr. (June) and Jerome.

He is survived by his children Debra (Dave) Murgel, Calvin Ridder and Shelia Ridder. Grandchildren Elizabeth Ridder of Vista, CA, Chad Ridder, Mike (Laci) Ridder and Caitlin (Bobby) Pomroy of Butte, MT, Matt (Marilyn) Ridder of Belgrade, MT, Travis Ridder of Johnstown, CO, of Butte, MT, Tracy (Bo) Talalotu-Clarabal of Helena, MT, Capt. Tom Murgel of Fort Lewis, WA, Anne Marcum of Stevensville, MT, Lee Marcum of Kentucky, Rosalie Carter of Stevensville, MT, and his 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Elmer (Helen), sister-in-law Donna Ridder of Leoti, KS and many nieces and nephews.

Rosary will be held at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Whitehall, MT, on Monday June 20, 2022, at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the St. Teresa’s Tuesday June 21, 2022, at 10:30 am with internment at the Whitehall Cemetery and Luncheon following at the Parish Center.

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Ray C Haberman, Jr. - January 09, 1933 - May 29, 2022

Departed: 05/29/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: In loving memory, Ray C. Haberman Jr. went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 29th, 2022.

Ray Jr. was born January 9th in 1933 in Mclaughlin, SD to Bertha and Ray Haberman Sr. Ray Jr. was the oldest child with three siblings. Ray Jr. attended school in Eagle Butte, SD. He married Grace Smith his “kissing honey” and the love of his life.

Ray Jr. worked on the family ranch where he and Grace started their family. In 1978 he moved his family to Whitehall, MT where he purchased a ranch South of town. Whitehall soon became home to Ray Jr. and his family. Ray Jr. ranched all his life doing what he loved; working the ranch, cattle, sheep, and farming. Ranching was one of his many passions. Ray Jr. and Grace also opened R and G Bakery in the 1980’s. He did many odd jobs up until he semi-retired, drilling rods for High Country Fencing for many years while still raising a few cattle. Ray Jr. loved helping others and telling stories. One of his most favorite stories was about his sister, Doctor JoAnn Haberman. It was about her becoming a doctor and helping others and how proud and honored he was to be her brother. Ray Jr. loved life and lived it to the fullest! When he fully retired he never missed a Sunday dancing. It was one of his most favorite things to do, that and spending time with his family and friends. Ray Jr. had multiple grandchildren: Kristen, Tyler, Courtney, Raymond, Rikell, Carter, Cody Woods, Austin Sacry, Jesse, Kayla, Kevin, Cody Sacry, Alec Sacry, Spencer, Justin, Brandon, Dini, Dacie, Cole and

Austin Haberman. Also, multiple great grandchildren: Kash, Tessa, Aubrey, Emily, Arianna, Sawyer, Parker, Oakley, Dallice, Abigail, Dawson, Milo, Charlee, Huck, Joseph, Luke, Hadley and Forest.

“Now there is a herd of turtles”! Each one of these children were his pride and joy and each one of them holding a special place in his heart.

Ray Jr.had many little sayings he shared with others, such as: “like a herd of turtles” and “there I was too already” to name a few.

Ray Jr. was preceded in death by his wife Grace, mother Bertha, father Ray Sr. and sister, Barbra Marlene (Snookie).

Ray Jr. is survived by his sister Doctor JoAnn Haberman, sister Judy Haberman (Gil Padilla).

Children Kevin (Kellie) Haberman, Denise (Brian) Sacry, Renae (Ben) Woods, Annette (Claude) Leverton, David (Darla) Haberman and Keith Haberman.

Ray Jr. was a happy go lucky guy and always had a smile and handshake. Ray Jr. will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Funeral services will be at the First Christian Church 108 E First St, Whitehall, MT

Tuesday June 7th at 1:00, post graveside service refreshments will be served at the church. If desired, the family suggests donations to the Christian Church.

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Bob Lombardi - November 16, 1932 - May 21, 2022

Departed: 05/21/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Bob “Peachie” Lombardi was born November 16th, 1932. He passed May 21st, 2022 following a long illness. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria, his brothers Ray and Frank. He is survived by his son Lee (Pollann) Bruner, his three grandchildren, Robert, Michael and John Bruner, brother Leonard, sister Delores, nieces and nephews, and lots of dear friends.

Bob was born to his family of dairy farmers in Elk Park, selling milk into Butte Montana. They lived on that property from before the turn of the century until they sold that property, and bought a farm in the Whitehall valley in the early 1950’s. Bob lived in the Whitehall valley from that time on through the rest of his life.

One of his favorite early stories was of the bus driver in Elk Park walking to the house to get him, and then carrying him out to the school bus, as the snow was to deep for him to walk out. Bob often said of that time that his days consisted of eating breakfast, milking the cows (by hand), then feeding the cows. They would then go in for lunch, clean the barns after lunch, milk the cows again, eat supper, and then go to bed to repeat it for the next day. They did this every day, all winter, with the cows never going outside, due to the freezing cold.

Bob and his family worked hard, and built a viable agricultural operation through some tough economic and personal times. In the late 1960’s to the late 1970’s, in addition to farming full time, Bob drove a delivery truck, gathering raw milk from local producers and taking it to the Safeway plant in Butte. Bob was an old school farmer. He once had a large diesel tractor blow an engine in the field while cutting hay. He laid out some plywood, tore the engine down, over the course of a few days rebuilt it, and continued cutting hay. To describe him as “self reliant” would be a significant understatement.

In the 1990’s, a movie company was looking for someone who could still drive a team of horses in a western they were filming. Bob brought his decades of experience working teams of horses to the project. He drove a team for them, and appeared in a couple of movies, earning him the nickname “Hollywood” for a while. He did not think that was very funny.

Bob loved to be outdoors, hunting and fishing with his brother and best friend Leonard were some of his best times. He was an excellent shot with a rifle, and many stories of his exploits, some even true, are still being shared among his friends and family. He loved riding around in the summer mountain cattle pastures, and it was not unusual to find him parked along the road, drinking coffee and eating a cookie, just watching the country. Bob loved everything about ranching and the outdoors, except coyotes, he really did not like them at all. Come to think of it, he was not real fond of skunks, porcupine, and gophers either.

Bob married Gloria in 1976, and they were together on many adventures until she passed on January 21, 2015. In later years, Bob and his grandson Michael lived together in what some called the bachelor pad, which Bob thought was pretty funny, or sometimes called the Boar’s nest, which he did not think funny at all. It was a good life, well lived.

Bob will be interred on his farm, next to the house he built near the apple orchard he planted. There will be a service on Tuesday, May 31st at K&L Mortuary in Whitehall at 6:00 p.m. A celebration of life gathering will be held at the Homestake Lodge, 530 Upper Rader Creek Road on Thursday, June 23th at 6:00 p.m., everyone is welcome.

Bob would like it if you would just take some time away from the hectic pace of life, enjoy a bit of quiet solitude in the outdoors of Montana, and remember your times together.

Memorials may be made to Jefferson County Ambulance, PO box 511, Whitehall, MT 59759, or the Jefferson Valley Museum, 303 S. Division St, Whitehall.

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Michael Alan Baker - October 05, 1949 - April 16, 2022

Departed: 04/16/2022 (Whitehall)

Obituary Preview: Michael Alan Baker went to be with the Lord on Friday April 16, 2022, at Saint James Hospital in Butte, MT with his family by his side. Mike was 72 years old.

Mike was born in Galion, Ohio on October 5th, 1949, to Lee and Marjorie Baker. His parents relocated him and three of his siblings (Barbara, Charlie, and Nancy) to Whitehall, MT in 1958. The eldest son, Pat, remained in Ohio where he raised a family whom Mike was very close to.

Mike graduated from Whitehall High School in 1969 and shortly thereafter married his high school sweetheart, Sylvia Walks. The couple moved to Ohio after marrying but soon returned to Whitehall, where they raised two daughters (Michelle and Laurie). Michelle and Laurie are forever grateful for a loving and nurturing upbringing.

Mike worked for a time at the Berkley Pit and later started Baker Excavating, which he ran until he retired. He was a master equipment operator, even winning the state of Montana Backhoe Rodeo in 1995. Mike had an uncanny ability to solve mechanical and carpentry problems, often from spare parts he’d collected from various jobs and old equipment. When the girls were young, he converted an old school bus into a motor home for the family to stay in at the Madison County fair. In recent years, he built a double decker trailer to haul his side-by-side and tricycle to AZ for the winter.

To know Mike was to love him. He was a kind and gentle soul with a witty personality, who was dedicated to his family, friends, and community. He was always willing to help anyone in need and loved being the life of the party. He was happiest when he was with family. Vacations were spent visiting relatives. His local nieces and nephews thought of him as a bonus dad, and he treated them as his own. He was immensely proud of his girls and frequently bragged about them and his five grandchildren.

Later in life, Mike reconnected with Rayelene Keeney Mikes who he had dated in middle school. They shared a deep love and committed to each other on March 3, 2018. They brought each other much joy for the past five years, enjoying winters in Bullhead City, AZ and summers in Whitehall.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Marjorie Baker, and siblings Charlie Baker and Barbara Schai. He is survived by Rayelene, his daughters, Michelle (Calvin) Johnson and Laurie (Kevin) Slovarp, bonus sons Brett Riley, Chad Riley, and Shane Mikes, grandchildren, Alex, Connor, and Meagan Johnson, and Luke and Brinlee Slovarp, nine grandchildren on Rayelene’s side, siblings Pat (Bev) Baker, and Nancy (Don) Hall, as well as many other family and friends who loved him dearly.

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Funeral Services Offered

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall offers a range of funeral services designed to help families celebrate the life of their loved one. These services include:

- Traditional funerals with viewing and visitation

- Cremation services with memorialization options

- Graveside services

- Memorial services

- Pre-planning and pre-funding options

Caring for Families in Their Time of Need

The team at K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall understands that the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. That's why they offer a range of support services to help families navigate the grieving process. From bereavement counseling to aftercare programs, the staff is dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance every step of the way.

A Commitment to Community

K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall is deeply rooted in the local community and is committed to giving back. The funeral home participates in various community events and charities throughout the year, demonstrating its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The funeral home features:

- A spacious chapel for funeral ceremonies

- A reception area for gatherings and receptions

- A private family lounge for quiet reflection

- Ample parking and wheelchair accessibility

Meet the Staff

The staff at K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and service. From licensed funeral directors to administrative staff, every member of the team is committed to helping families create meaningful tributes to their loved ones.

Contacting K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Whitehall, Montana, look no further than K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall. To learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact them at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL). The team at K & L Mortuaries, Inc. - Whitehall looks forward to serving you in your time of need.

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 typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also offer assistance in crafting an obituary as part of their services.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), and surviving family members. It may also mention hobbies, interests, or achievements that defined the person's life.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary greatly, depending on the publication or online platform where it will be published. Generally, it should be concise yet informative, ranging from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some print publications allow you to add photos, videos, or audio clips to enhance the tribute. This can help bring the person's story to life and make the obituary more engaging.

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

Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific guidelines they may have. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment (if required) for publication.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers or online sites may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or free listings.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries ahead of time. This can ensure that your life story is told in your own words and can be a therapeutic exercise in reflection and self-expression.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only essential information such as name, age, and date of death. It serves as a concise notification to inform others of the person's passing.

What is the difference between a death notice and an obituary?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, while an obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that includes biographical information and often personal anecdotes.

Can I include humor or lighthearted moments in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous stories or anecdotes can help celebrate their life and make the tribute more relatable and engaging.

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

If there are sensitive issues or controversies surrounding the person's life or death, it's essential to approach these topics with tact and compassion. Consider seeking guidance from a funeral director or counselor if you're unsure how to navigate these situations.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause close to their heart.

How long after a person's passing should an obituary be published?

The timing of publishing an obituary can vary depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. Typically, it's published within a few days to a week after the person's passing, but it can be delayed if necessary.

Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, yes. If you need to make corrections or additions to an already-published obituary, contact the publication or online platform where it was published to inquire about their editing policies.

Are there any specific formatting or style guidelines for writing an obituary?

YES! Different publications may have unique style guides or formatting requirements. Be sure to check with the publication or online platform before submitting your obituary.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has passed away recently but wasn't well-known?

Absolutely! An obituary is a meaningful way to honor anyone who has passed away, regardless of their level of public recognition. It serves as a tribute to their life and provides closure for loved ones.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

It's understandable that writing an obituary can be a challenging task during a difficult time. Consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member, or professional writer who can assist you in crafting a fitting tribute.

Can I use social media to share an obituary or memorialize someone who has passed away?

Yes! Social media platforms can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a person's passing and celebrating their life. You can create a memorial page or share updates with friends and family.

Are there any specific considerations for writing an obituary for someone who was LGBTQ+?

Yes! When writing an obituary for someone who identified as LGBTQ+, it's essential to respect their identity and use language that reflects their preferred pronouns and gender expression.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Incorporating meaningful quotes, lyrics, or poetry can add depth and emotion to an obituary. Choose pieces that resonate with the person's life philosophy or personality.

What if I need help finding resources for writing an obituary?

There are many online resources available to assist with writing an obituary. You can also consult with funeral directors, counselors, or professional writers for guidance and support.

Can I create a digital archive of my loved one's life story beyond just an obituary?

Yes! Consider creating a digital legacy project that includes photos, videos, stories, and other mementos that celebrate your loved one's life. This can be shared with family and friends as a lasting tribute.

Is there anything else I should consider when writing an obituary?

Remember that writing an obituary is not just about conveying information – it's about honoring the person who has passed away. Approach this task with compassion, empathy, and attention to detail to create a fitting tribute that celebrates their life.