Smith Funeral Chapel-Laurel & Columbus Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Shirley Ida Olson went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 16th, 2022.Shirley was born on December 7, 1934 to Vera and Russell Gunn. Shirley married Harris Olson on December 2, 1956. Together they had three children, Leslie, Melanie, and Mark.Shirley is survived by her children Leslie Morrison (John), Melanie Sheffield (Kraig), Mark Olson (Ann). Grandchildren, Derek, Jacob, Chantelle, Robert (Jackie), Krystal (Nate), Taylor (Jessica), Tanner, Trevyn, Jayce.Great Grandchildren, Eden, Scarlett, Bellarose, Benjamin, Twin granddaughters Reine and Sloane. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Harris, her parents Vera and Russell Gunn, sisters, Pauline Peterson, Nita Handran, Janice Bartel, Norma Kalien, brother Larry Gunn and son-in-law Tim Clark.Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will take place in September 1st, 2022 at the Yellowstone County Veterans Cemetery in Laurel, Mt. A luncheon will take place after the service at Family Church1002 3rd Ave Laurel, Mt.

Obituary Preview: Patricia Mae (Brost) McNew, 88, passed away, on August 15th, 2022, 2 days shy of her 65th wedding anniversary to her loving husband, Howard Kenneth McNew. She is survived by her husband, where they lived in Laurel, MT for the last several years. “Patty” was a devoted daughter, born May 5th, 1934, to Henry and Helen (Basta) Brost in Glendive, MT. Patty had two older sisters, Fern and Ivy who died tragically as children. Patty then became the oldest of her three siblings to follow. Mercedes Peterson and Bernie Brost have preceded Pat in passing with her youngest brother, Delon Brost surviving.“Patty” grew up in Glendive, MT where she returned after graduating from nursing school (Miles City, MT) as a Registered Nurse. Shortly thereafter she met the love of her life, Howard, who also had just graduated from school (Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine). They married soon after on August 17th, 1957. They eventually settled in Sidney, MT in 1961, where they raised their family of 6 children: Thomas Howard McNew, Tamara Jean McNew (children; Erin LeMons, Ryan Gosselin, and Cori McNew), Laurie Ann McNew, Michael Patrick McNew (spouse, Pam McNew; children Steven McNew and Christopher McNew), Michelle Marie McNew (spouse, Pam Wilson), and Timothy Michael McNew (spouse, Nicole McNew; children Keeley McNew and Lexi McNew). Along with her 7 grandchildren noted above, she is survived by 6 beautiful great grandchildren.Pat and Howard moved to Laurel in 1985. She was incredibly sad to leave her beautiful friends in Sidney and never forgot them. She made wonderful new friends in Laurel to add to her circle of the most wonderful, strong, loving women of Faith you could ask for. They all have a characteristic of being able to make Pat erupt into joyful laughter.Pat was well known for her volunteer work with the Catholic Church including community outreach with the elderly and disabled. Pat, along with her husband, Howard, were active with their children in 4-H and Catholic activities, participating, mentoring, and often taking on the roles of leaders and teachers.Pat, along with her husband, were incredibly supportive of their children and grandchildren’s’ activities and personal pursuits; never missing an opportunity to attend or at least send out a prayer chain that she was sure was received by God in Heaven above and to the ground below.Pat’s personal passions, besides her Faith and Family, included polka, playing the accordion, watching the Mollie B Polka Party and the Lawrence Welk Show. She loved everything Catholic and dedicated her talent and flair for decorating to many events and spiritual movements including the Cursillo. She enlisted her devoted husband in many of her creative endeavors. Pat also loved growing and nurturing flowers throughout her life both at home and at church. She would often be seen leaving mass on a Sunday only to stop as she pruned the roses on her way by with a little pinch here and there allowing them to flourish under her watchful eye.Pat’s family and friends always felt her fierce dedication, loyalty, and love. Her physical presence is missed by all, yet she will be celebrated in spirit as she ascends into Heaven, joining her family and friends that have preceded her, with open arms, love, and joyous praise.

Obituary Preview: Joyce Evelyn DeCoteau Cotter was born in Poplar, MT to parents Gladys and Louis DeCoteau. She dedicated her life to raising and loving her four children, Bobbie, James, Jay and Ray and her grandchildren.A celebration of life will be held on August 10, 2022, at 106 ½ 7th Ave at 5:00 p.m. The family wants to thank St. John’s Hospice and St. Vincent’s Hospital for all the excellent and loving care they gave Joyce.

Obituary Preview: Carrie Leah (Hinton) Kelly passed away peacefully Aug 1, 2022, at home with her family after a long, hard-fought battle with a rare spinal cancer. Carrie was born April 28th, 1973, to Butch and Darleen (Wills) Hinton in Columbus, Montana.Carrie lived her entire life where she always said "was the only placed she wanted to live" in Absarokee, MT. After graduating for AHS in 1992 she worked several different jobs including daycare, waitressing and prep cook at the local cafe, and several years with Montana Cincha. Carrie then took on the role of the "everything" worker for the family business (Kelly Excavating) as a bookkeeper, secretary, parts runner, equipment operator, laborer, finance director, gofer and just about anything that needed done all while painting with her mom (Darleen Wills) and being a great wife and mother.Carrie met her love Mark Kelly in 1995 and were married in 1995. They raised two amazing children Logan and Rebecca which are her everything and loves more than anything. Family and Friends were the most important things to Carrie, always putting them ahead of herself. She enjoyed anything to do with family and friends from: birthdays, weddings, graduations, to just hanging out barbequing and having a cold drink. She enjoyed family dinners and playing cards till late in the evening. Carrie loved to bowl with the bowling league for the Chrome Bar with Bev, Ray, Linda, and Shorty and later with Tye and Geneta. Taking in a Sunday afternoon with the kids knocking down some pins. She also liked camping and riding along with while hunting and fishing with her dad (Butch Hinton), family and friends. You could always count on Carrie to have some snacks and of course some candy along. Carrie loved her candy. She also had a great love for playing music. Whether it be at home, in the car or the jukebox at the local watering holes, she always had a great playlist that people enjoyed listening to.Carrie is survived by her husband Mark Kelly, son Logan Kelly, daughter Rebecca Kelly all of Absarokee. Mother Darleen Wills of Absarokee, sister Ivy Ekle ( Janine G.)of Columbus , sister Malena (Barry) Alsop of Billings, Uncle Sidney(aunt Jody) Wills, Aunt Janette Bush, cousins: Heather, Crystal (Bobby) Cheff all of Potomac, MT. Cousin Cereta Wills of Missoula, Lisa ( George) Bush of Milltown, Aunt Lilian Yates of Columbus, Aunt Cathy Wills of Missoula, Cousin Scott Anderson of Rockford, Ill., Cousin Tom Harrington of Butte, Brother and Sister in laws Bernard and Detra Kelly of Fishtail, Michelle Kelly of Broadview, Jason Ekle of Columbus, and Shane Harmon of Rapelje. Many nieces and nephews and cousins that meant the world to her: Blake, Alycia, Cady, Emma, Hanna, Ethan, Kade, Tatum, Leona, J.D., Patrick, Taylor, Brooke, Kelly, Brian, Andre, Marcus, Porter, Nicole, Angie, Elijah, Reilly, Treasa, Tracy, Carsten and many more cousins and friends too many to be able to name them all.Carrie is preceded in death by her: Father Butch Hinton of Absarokee, Grandmother Nora Hinton of Absarokee, Grandmother Verla Wills of Potomac. Uncle Dipper Bush of Potomac. Cousin Leanne Harrington of Butte, Uncle Wesley Wills of Potomac, Uncle Lindy Hinton of Billings, Aunt Fern Bertrum of Absarokee, In-laws: Father, Mother and brother, Wyvil , Marcy and Steve Kelly of Melville, MT. and Grandmother Adele Shea of Strawberry PT. IA. and her beloved animals: Angel, Garfield, Simpson, Paws, Sadie and Daisy which were always close or on her lap.

Obituary Preview: Jesus welcomed Candy into His loving arms on July 26, 2022.Candy was born on December 11, 1949 to Robert and Ona Lucas in Springfield, OH. Moved to Las Cruces, NM in 1955, Billings, MT in 1965. Graduated Billings Senior High in 1968. She attended Warner Pacific College in Portland OR where she met the love of her life, Ed Onoszko, at a Bible Study she attended with her roommate. Candy and Ed just celebrated 47 years of marriage this July 19.Ed and Candy and their son Peter moved to Laurel, in 1977 to be closer to Candy’s family as their own family began to grow. Candy’s family remembers her as a selfless woman full of boundless compassion and her gracious heart will be missed by all that knew her. “When I think of Grandma, I think of how she loved and I think of the crazy amounts of grace she showed, I mean especially me.”Candy is survived by husband, Ed of Laurel, their three sons, Peter (Sandy) of Columbus, MT and their daughters, Allison of Butte and Riley of Bozeman; Josh (Sharon) and their son, Cooper; Charles (Meranda) and their sons, Logan and Crozby, all of Laurel.Candy is also survived by her four sisters; Linda (Milt) Williamson; Carolyn Everard (Jim deceased 8-22-21), Billings; Dena (Brad) Fredrickson, Idaho Falls, ID; and Kelly Montague, Folley, AL.Home Going Celebration of Life will be held at New Life Foursquare Ministries, 201 1st Ave., Laurel, MT on Monday, August 8, 2022, at 11:00am. Burial will proceed the service at 10:00am at the Yellowstone National Cemetery, 1st Ave & Airport Road.

Obituary Preview: Aaron F. Lurz, a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, passed away on Tuesday, July 19th, 2022. He was born in Boulder, Colorado on March 14th, 1988 to Rebecca Lamb and Andy Kresha.As a young boy, Aaron moved to Montana with his mother and step-father, Kevin Lurz. This is where he fostered his love for hunting and fishing.After graduation in 2006 from Huntley Project High School, Aaron enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He attained the rank of Sergeant and served in the First Tank Battalion. As part of his service, he had deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan where he was severely injured by an IED. He is a Purple Heart recipient.Aaron is survived by his two children, Hunter and Amiya; his parents, Rebecca All, Kevin Lurz and Andy Kresha; maternal and paternal grandparents, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Obituary Preview: Darrell Lee McGillen of Laurel, MT left this world just after midnight in the early morning hours of July 9, 2022 at the age of 72. Born in Billings, MT on July 1, 1950, he was the only child of Lydia and Darrell James McGillen. Raised in a one bedroom apartment on East 1st Street in Laurel, Darrell started creating the story that is now his legend. Graduating from Laurel High School in 1968 he enrolled at Eastern Montana College to study “Suboligy” (socializing in the Student Union Building) as the country was at war. In 1970 Darrell was drafted into the Army and proudly served nearly two years fighting the war in Vietnam. After his active service to this country ended, Darrell returned to Laurel and in 1971 joined his father DJ in operating the family business, The Palace Bar & Lanes on Main Street. He also continued to serve in the Army reserves until 1976. In 1974 he was lucky enough to marry his love, Linda Sue Lawrenz, “His Lovely Bride”. The following nearly five decades brought him six children, sixteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and eight nieces and nephews. Darrell lived a life of public service. Serving on the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years and leading as Chief for 14 of them. He was an integral part of growing the amazing fireworks show we all enjoy on the 4th of July, spending countless hours with his fireman friends stringing shells together for the best fireworks display in the state. Darrell was also an amazing bowler. Enjoying leagues in town, and having the best of times bowling with his buddies at State, and National events. Darrell moved on from the bowling and bar business in the late 2000’s, working as a lighting installer for several years. He could tell you everything you ever didn’t need to know about LED lighting. He excelled like he always did just being the extremely handy person he was. As retirement days took over it didn’t slow Darrell down. He was his grandchildren’s biggest cheerleader on and off the court or field. Doing his best to make it to as many events as possible and always sharing a Papa’s wisdom “make smart decisions”.If you knew him, you already know what an exceptional man he was. He was a loving husband, an outstanding dad, the best Papa and Grand Papa, and true friend to so many. A loyal defender of those he loved. Generous in all things. He bled Red White and Blue and loved the flag and what it stood for. He was a social butterfly who loved conversation. Tough as nails on the surface but soft on the inside and sentimental in ways you wouldn’t expect. He was loud and funny. A weaver of stories with a desire to make you laugh. The fixer of all things and builder of anything. He was a “make enough food for an army”, “everyone is welcome”, “the more the merrier” kind of guy. He was real. What you saw is what you got.We have lost our ring leader, our master of ceremonies. Our hearts are broken, but his show will go on in each and every one of us that had the privilege to really know and love the man, the myth, the legend. Darrell Lee McGillen.Darrell is survived by his lovely bride Linda, Son Allan (Nicola) Gradwohl; Jacob, Landen, Taicyn, Cole, Brittney, Gabriel, Gracie, Caryn, Tyler and Ronin. Daughter Jodi (Steve) Willis; Drake, Layne and Gracey. Daughter Janet (Bryon) Wagner; Ashley, Bryanna, Rowyn and Ryker. Daughter Lisa Harris (Daryl Kraiter); Carter. Son Derek (Kori) McGillen; Dax and Dekker. Daughter Kimber (Trent) Crookston; Ella, Addy and Mylee. Sister-in-Law Connie Slaughter; Jocelyn and Christopher. Sister-in-Law Jan Miller; Lance and Laura. Sister-in-Law Karen (Mike) Mace; Ann and Joe. Sister-in-Law Kim (Bill) Davis; Luke and Josh. And extended family spread out across Yellowstone, Stillwater and Carbon counties.He was preceded in death by his parents Lydia and Darrell James McGillen, Brother-in-Law Barry Slaughter, Brother-in-Law Larry Miller. Military funeral services will be held on September 2, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at the Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel, MT. Please join the family for food and refreshments at the Thomson Park picnic shelter following the ceremony

Obituary Preview: Evelyn L. (Bricker) Meares, 88, died at Tender Nest in Billings, Montana on July 6, 2022, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Evelyn was born at the Thompson family homestead on Whitebird Creek Road just outside of Columbus, Montana on January 8, 1934, to Willard and Grace (Thompson) Bricker. At a young age her family moved to California during the depression for work where she was raised with her three sisters Iola (Ralph) Smith, Ellen (Jim) Veik, and Arlene (Ray) Veik.As teenager she spent time with her Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and cousins on the Thompson (Columbus) and George (Roscoe) ranches in Montana.The Montana visits continued each year after she married and had children.She met the love of her life, Forrest Meares, while attending 4-H camp California. They were married on June 20, 1954 in Riverside California. After several years living in San Luis Obispo, where Forrest received his degree in Poultry Husbandry and a year of teaching the same, they started a family.They raised three children: Forrest Randall (Chris) of Modesto, California, Bruce (Lisa) of Santa Barbara, California and Sue (Mark Pederson) of Columbus, Montana.Evelyn (Evie) enjoyed being outside gardening or helping with ranch duties (even moving hand pipe), genealogy, quilting, upholstery, getting together with her three sisters and all 13 grandkids. She attended her children’s sports and 4-H meetings and horse shows. Evelyn spent time as a dental assistant, before a long career as a librarian and then a teacher’s aide. Mom cleaned a lot of fish over the years after introducing Dad to fishing on the Stillwater.In 1987, Evie & Forrest bought a small house on the Stillwater River from Evie’s uncle, Wally Thompson, and began spending the entire summers there after retiring in 1995. Evie enjoyed the many visitors from friends and family.She is survived by her husband, their children and spouses, grandchildren Mayson, Justine, Rebeca Meares; Shane & Savannah Meares; Paul (Emily)& Katie (Drew) Pederson Wajer and 4 great grandchildren.

Obituary Preview: Albert Matteo Uribe (76) of Summerset SD, and Las Vegas, NV passed away June 28, 2022, at his Las Vegas residence. Albert was born to Alberto and Melba (DeNittis) Uribe in El Paso, TX. Albert was raised in Laurel, Montana along with his siblings Joseph Uribe (Jane) Power, MT; Carlos Uribe (Sue) Billings, MT; Cindy Weinheimer Billings, MT and John Uribe(deceased).Albert later graduated from Laurel High school in 1964. Later that year, Albert proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Machinist Mate on the U.S.S Providence in the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge in 1970, Al attended college in California and returned to Montana as a draftsman.In 1984, Albert married Rose Ann Austin and proudly became the parent of Shannon (Kelly) Gjerde; Billings, Mt, Brandon Gjerde; (deceased) , and Melissa Gjerde; Summerset; SD. Albert eventually retired from Conoco, a job he held for over 20 years. Upon retirement, Albert and Rose spent their time between Summerset, SD and Las Vegas, NV. Everyone that knew Al knew of his love for movies, regarding war and westerns. Albert's grandchildren Jordan (Chase) Andersen; Billings, MT , Jade Gjerde; Boulder, CO, Haylee (Bobby) Jutting, Kylee Bennett, Gunner Bennett and his great granddaughter NovaLee Jutting, filled Alberts life with love and joy. Alberts grandchildren loved their "grandpa" aka "papa" dearly and will always know him as their biggest supporter. Albert had numerous nieces and nephews. Albert Matteo Uribe is preceded in death by his mother Melba (DeNittis), his father Alberto Uribe, his brother John Uribe and his son Brandon Gjerde.

Obituary Preview: Shirley Knutson, formerly of Fromberg, MT, passed away on June 21, 2022, at the age of 86. Shirley Ann Konig Knutson was born in Glendive, MT, on June 16, 1936, to Anton and Esther Ryan Konig. She grew up on a farm near Bad Route Creek, 14 miles north of Fallon, MT, with her older sister Joyce and younger brother Tim. The area was aptly named Bad Route, as their tiny house had no electricity, running water, or indoor plumbing. Farming was difficult then, and dry land farming was the worst. All their water had to be carried up the hill to their house, but in typical Shirley fashion, she claimed that it made them stronger, and they had the best drinking water in the area. As a child of the Great Depression and World War II, she knew what it was like to do without and rationing gas, sugar, and clothes made her more appreciative for the things she had throughout her life.She attended country schools in the area where she had her mother as her teacher for many years. When she was 12 years old, she began babysitting, preparing meals, and cleaning house for area farmers. She earned $5 every two weeks and thought she was rich. When it was time for high school, she boarded in Glendive with different families for the first two years, once again babysitting, cleaning, and cooking to pay her way. Shirley got her first “real” job at the age of 16, working as an usher at the Rose Theater for 14 cents an hour and then working as a waitress at Woolworths and the Lulhaven, all the while going to school and walking more than a mile each way from the apartment she shared with her sister. After graduation, she worked as a secretary for QB & R; by that time her parents had moved into Glendive; she lived with them and helped them pay rent.She met her husband Tom Knutson at a dance at the Montana Inn and they were married on November 26, 1955, at Sacred Heart Church in Glendive, MT. For the next several years, her husband’s job on the railroad took them to Hoyt, MT, then to Golva, ND, Fallon, MT, Horton, MT, Pompey’s Pillar, MT, and finally to Fromberg in 1967. Summers in the late 1950’s were spent living in a box car on a railroad siding while her husband operated a cat for his job, doing what she did best, raising babies. Those summers were a challenge; nursing three children through bouts of chicken pox and other childhood diseases with no running water, intermittent electricity, and living in a hot and cramped box car was not an easy life, but Shirley always remembered the fun they would have moving from site to site and meeting new people. Many of the railroad section houses they lived in during those years in the late 50’s and early 60’s did not have indoor plumbing and were miles away from any modern conveniences, but she often said that what she had now was better than what she grew up with and there were plenty of others who had it worse.Shirley inherited her father’s talent for rock-hounding; while living at Hoyt and Horton, she would take her kids agate picking to find rocks they would then sell to earn extra money. After moving to Fromberg, she worked with her kids hoeing sugar beets and helping them mow lawns, especially the Catholic Church lawn. She encouraged them to get jobs at a young age, and her children could be seen babysitting, stacking hay, delivering papers, or working at the local café. Shirley knew how to work hard and make the most out of very little for those she loved; her children learned early that little could phase her. She was by nature a nurturer and she was as gritty as they come; mice, snakes, mischievous kids, broken bones, asthma attacks, and even the occasional bat in the house never got the best of her.Shirley’s love language was easily cooking for family and friends. She prided herself on her “from-scratch” cooking and delighted in having company and preparing feasts. Shirley was a genius at making certain her ever growing family was well fed on a tight budget; she could stretch a loaf of bread and a can of tuna to feed 10 people when she made creamed tuna on toast; if it rained, you could count on potato soup and homemade rolls for supper. Family favorites were her fried chicken and mashed potatoes, jellyrolls, lefse, homemade jams, jellies, salsas, and truffles. Her kids and grandkids were the lucky recipients of her trays of Christmas cookies, krumkakes, rosettes, and candies.While encouraging and helping her kids get jobs early and tending an impressive garden that spanned nearly every foot of their backyard, Shirley put her heart and energy into raising her children to be hardworking, respectful, and generous. She stressed the importance of doing your best in school and getting involved and was determined to see that her children got the best life that she could possibly provide for them. People often remarked on how proud Shirley was of her children; her husband Tom stated that all the credit for raising good kids should go to her, as he traveled extensively for his job. Shirley’s legacy is her 11 children, all of whom have followed in her footsteps of being productive and positive members of society, as well as nurturing and loving parents/aunts and uncles.Following the loss of her husband Tom in 2001 and an earlier bypass surgery, Shirley, who was never one to sit and be idle, went to work at Fort Rockvale, continuing her vocation of cooking and serving up love for others. There she reveled in her “work family”, who loved her new and old recipes, and her kind boss, who often cut the largest slices of her desserts for himself. She also enjoyed working seasonally in Laurel, making evergreen Christmas wreaths, to pay for the gifts she delighted in purchasing for her beloved grandchildren. In her “spare time”, Shirley enjoyed doing the daily crossword puzzle, playing and winning many games of Scrabble, and making many of her grandchildren jean quilts.Shirley was active in her community as well. She spent years being read to by children at Fromberg Elementary; after moving to Billings, she was a “Reading Grandma” with Trinity Lutheran School. She worked for several years with the Historical Society in Fromberg, spending countless hours tending to the roses in the flower beds downtown, and serving on the Fromberg Town Council. A woman of remarkable strength and faith, she took her children to church regularly, prayed for them constantly, and was very active with St Joseph’s Catholic Church, serving on the Altar Society, Church Council, and teaching religious education for years. She was an ardent Fromberg Falcons fan and very proud of the fact that all 11 of her children had graduated from the same school. Long after the last Knutson had graduated, she attended as many athletic, musical, theatrical, or academic events as she could manage. Shirley loved attending proms, weddings, and other social events, including the birthday parties her children hosted for her. However, nothing could match the love and delight she took in her grandchildren. They were the light of her life and, with the pressure of raising good humans off her shoulders, she was free to snuggle, spoil, and indulge to her heart’s content. It was a special treat for her grandchildren and for her when she would have the grandchildren over for a night or even a weekend; it didn’t matter if you were 2 or 18, Grandma’s house in Fromberg was special. Shirley had a heart for all kids, especially those in need. She would discreetly pack extra food for those that didn’t bring a lunch to track meets or donate Halloween costumes to the elementary school, so everyone was able to dress up. She was famous in Fromberg for distributing a full-size candy bar and can of soda at Halloween and delighted in seeing trick-or-treaters, big and small, and putting a smile on their faces.Aside from her children and grandchildren, one of the things she was most proud of was owning her own home in Fromberg. She spent hours tending to her home, her garden, and her yard and reveling in nurturing, raising, and enjoying the fruits of her labor. Having to leave her treasured home and move into The Springs Assisted Living in Billings in 2018 was quite possibly the most difficult thing she ever had to do. She would often comment that she knew it was the best thing, but oh, how she missed her Fromberg home. Despite having to relinquish some of her independence and traditions, Shirley quickly made new friends at The Springs and was a favorite of the caregivers, other residents, and their families. She became very involved in all the activities, from going on day trips, to enjoying exercise classes, and to playing Bingo, even making visiting family members wait a moment when she was winning at Bingo. Shirley reveled in showing her family off to the staff and other residents and was always excited and appreciative when her kids and grandkids would come to visit, taking her out for a meal, going shopping, enjoying manis and pedis, visiting Zoo Montana, or just taking a drive, as long as you didn’t go up on the Rims or the Cooke City highway. The COVID lockdowns were hard on Shirley, as it meant she went months without seeing her family and friends in person. She was so excited when those restrictions were lifted so she could once again enjoy the company of friends and family.Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband Tom Knutson, a granddaughter Taiven Lynn Knutson, and numerous close friends, including Marietta Palmersheim, Mary Kaufman, Lauretta George, and Evie Bauwens. She is survived by her 11 children: Carole (Shane) Bettenhausen, Baker, MT; Allan (Janet) Knutson, Molt, MT; Doug (Denise) Knutson, Incline Village, NV; Kevin Knutson, Gillette, WY; Teri Knutson, Bozeman, MT; Connie (Dennis) Hoffman, Billings, MT; Tom Knutson, Kenmare, ND; Brian (Kristi) Knutson, Billings, MT; Derrick Knutson (Bree Ochs), Absarokee, MT; Kris (Jillann) Knutson, Bridger, MT; and Traci (Tad) Daly, Gillette, WY. In addition, she is survived by a special sister-in-law, Lorraine Knutson, good friends Wanda Whitfield and Sandy Spencer of Fromberg, and numerous nieces and nephews.Shirley’s grandchildren and great grandchildren are: Caleb (Brittany) Bettenhausen and children Ailey and Rafe; Slade (Bailie Colvin) Bettenhausen; Darby (Tige Wilson) Bettenhausen; Britton (Melanie Ring) and children Gabe and Mike Brownlee and Lettie; Holden (Alissa Barth) Knutson, Parker (Holly) Knutson and son Jackson; Madison (Matt) Getchell and children Charlie and Tarin; Will (Tiffany) Knutson; Katie Knutson; Emily Knutson; Rachel (Dakoda Wells) Knutson; Nick Knutson; Megan Hoffman; Andrew Hoffman; Blake McKenzie (Michelle VanMeter) and children Aubri, Kinsley, Elaina, Kimber; Shelby Knutson; Shay Knutson; Spenser Knutson; Dalton Knutson; Allie Knutson; Makayla Knutson; Hailey Knutson; Sawyer Daly; and Quinn Daly.Memorials in Shirley’s name may be made to the organization of your choice or to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fromberg.

Obituary Preview: Floyd Benjamin Goldy, 81, of Park City, passed away peacefully at his home on June 10, 2022.Services will be held at 12:00 p.m., June 20, at Smith Funeral Home in Laurel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Columbus immediately following.He is survived by his son, Ben (Brenda); daughter Heidi (John); brother Billy (Donna); sister Mary; nine grandchildren; one adopted granddaughter (Misty); nineteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; one dog and three cats.Floyd was born January 21, 1941, in Billings. He married his beautiful bride Betty Irene Goldy (Produit) on September 10, 1960. They were married for 55 years prior to Betty’s passing. He served honorably in the US Navy for 26 years, leaving his service as an E-8. He served as the ROTC instructor and was the head custodian at Senior High School until he retired. He made a lasting impact on the students at Senior, and they all left their mark on him!

Obituary Preview: Gloria J Bence, 86, of Laurel, MT sadly left us on June 2nd, 2022 surrounded by family. She is survived by husband of 61 years Richard L Bence, daughters Barbara Bence and Kathleen (Sean) Furrow, and son Rick (Sheryl) Bence. She was also survived by 5 grandchildren, Ricky (Jessica) Robinson, Stephanie (Nick) Robinson, Jesse (Jackie) Bence, Nicole Robinson, and Levi Bence. And 7 great grandchildren.Gloria was born April 25th, 1936, in Vandergrift, PA. Gloria and Richard met in Pennsylvania, marrying in 1960. In 1977 they moved their family to Montana. She enjoyed planting flowers and working on craft projects. Gloria loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, supporting their activities and watching them grow. She always looked forward to the family Labor Day camping trips.A small graveside service will be held at the Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel, MT on Tuesday, June 7th at 1pm.Our family is grateful to know that mom is finally at peace.

Obituary Preview: Michael Edward Parker, age 63 passed unexpectedly at his home in Absarokee, MT on June 1st, 2022Michael was born in Providence, RI to his late parents Edmund Eddie Parker and Catherine Rose McNally.He was a sibling to Carol Dasilva, Brian Parker, and Scott Parker. He was an uncle to Joseph Dasilva, Dakota Parker, and Lisa Dasilva.Michael is survived by; his significant other/ best friend Vickie Larson of Billings MT; his two daughters Desarae Parker of North Kingstown RI and Laura Barlow Lafosse of Derry NH; his son Michael Parker of Pawtucket RI; step daughter Nicole Barlow of Cranston RI, and two grandchildren, Isabella Anttio and Nathan Lafosse.Michael was a former laborer at Western Sugar Cooperative, in Billings MT. He worked many construction jobs over the years, remodeling, buildings, homes and bridges.Michael enjoyed fishing the Stillwater River. He loved the outdoors and spent many days and evenings camping and riding his four wheeler. He also enjoyed woodworking, antique shopping and refurbishing old furniture. He adored his dogs, Buddy, Charlie and Rocko. He was a member of Absarokee Evangelical Church.He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew of him.Michael has been cremated; a private scattering of his cremains will take place by his family at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Shane Justin Marvin, 45, of Columbus, Montana passed away on May 30, 2022.Shane was born on May 2, 1977 to Larry and Arlene Marvin in Billings, Montana. After he graduated from Billings Senior High in 1996. Shane explored a handful of career options before enlisting in the United States Marine Corp. in 2004.Shane’s military career included basic training at San Diego MCRD, Combat Engineer training at Camp Lejune in North Carolina, station assignments at MCAS Kaneohe Bay in Oahe, Hawaii, combat assignments in Iraq and a deployment mission on the USS Tortuga, where he trained local marine forces in multiple different countries in southeast Asia.After a decorated military career, one of Shane’s favorite assignments was the role of “Uncle” to Kennette, Kincaid, Rylyne, Lucas, William, and Macelyn. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and all things “outdoors”.In 2018, Shane met Kathy. The two were married at Fireman’s Point in Columbus in July of 2021. They enjoyed traveling, experiencing different types of cuisines, and spending time with their fur-kids.He was predeceased by Barbara Marvin (paternal grandmother), Katie Frey (maternal grandmother). He is survived by his wife Kathy Marvin (Gates), parents, Larry and Arlene Marvin, sister Tiffaney Teske (Sonny), brother Jason Marvin (Brittney), stepson Ryan Gates, and nieces and nephews Kennette, Kincaid, Rylyne, Lucas, William, and Macelyn.In accordance with Shane’s wishes, official services will not be held. Memorials may be sent to: Warrior Wishes MT, PO Box 81557, Billings MT, 58108.

Obituary Preview: Donald Joseph Cates January 7, 1936 - May 27, 2022Don was a loving husband to Sharon Jensen Cates for 40 years. He was a loving father to Brenda, Lorin and Cheryl Rindal Cates. Also to Sharon's five sons, Don, Jim, Gene, Tony, and Scott Jensen. He was a Grandparent to 9 and a Great Grandparent to 19.He loved hunting and fishing in his earlier years. But, his greatest joy was his dogs. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones.

Obituary Preview: Harvey was born November 29, 1933, to Walter and Esther Madison in Absarokee, Montana. He started first grade at the Spring Creek School on the Stillwater River; only five years old when he started, his parents had to chase him down to get him to attend. His family moved to Absarokee where he attended school there and graduated in 1952.As a boy he spent idyllic summers in Bridger Creek where his father ran sheep. Harvey spent his days fishing, roaming the hills and playing with boyhood friends.He was active in the FFA and a delegate to the FFA National Convention in Kansas City in 1952.Harvey married Doris Miller on August 23, 1952, and worked for his father-in-law, George Miller, in Picket Pin Mountain at George’s sawmill, cutting and skidding. The crew included Doris’s brother Ted and together they roamed the mountains and woods; Harvey claiming this was the most cherished and enjoyable time of his life.Harvey and Doris moved to Billings in 1955 and raised their four children Wendy, Web, Wade and Skip. After 40 years in Billings, the day after his 62nd birthday, he retired and moved back to the family ranch on the Stillwater where he raised a few cattle, hayed, irrigated, fixed fence, enjoyed the fresh air, blue sky and wild life that roamed throughout.He loved his retirement on the ranch and pursued many hobbies and interests while living there. He attended as many auctions as he could from Carbon County to Lewistown to Yellowstone County, collected antique and new toys, restored antique furniture, and built beautiful china cabinets for his wife that replicated antique furniture. He also built grandfather and grandmother clocks. Additionally, he was a talented restorer of horse drawn buggies and wagons. He had many hobbies, his favorite was collecting antique and not-so-antique toys. As a young man he collected and displayed discarded license plates which later developed into researching and amassing an impressive collection, eventually becoming a member of ALPCA, a national organization for those with the same interest, attending as many of the Montana meetings as he could, and a national meeting in South Dakota. He appreciated the friendship of other collectors and looked forward to trading plates with them. He also enjoyed collecting old advertising signs.Harvey loved hunting and fishing, and pack trips to the mountains. One highlight was participating in the Custer re-ride of 1986 with father-in-law George Miller. Another memorable moment was the pack trip in which he and George met some hikers whose trip was interrupted with illness and injury; George and Harvey loaded them up on the horses and packed them out to the Boulder where they handed the two unfortunate hikers off to a medical helicopter crew for a flight to Billings.In 1980 Harvey and Doris traveled by motor home with in-laws George and Dorothy to Alaska which included a flight that crossed the Arctic Circle. He and Doris and George chartered a boat in Homer for halibut fishing. By all accounts, despite Doris getting sea sick, it was a successful fishing trip and Harvey often recounted that vacation for the rest of his life. Due to health reasons, Harvey and Doris moved to Absarokee in 2019. They resided in the house Doris lived in while in high school, the Miller family home. The house is next door to the house Harvey was born in. Harvey said, “I came full circle.”Harvey passed at home on May 19, 2022, from complications of heart disease and Parkinsons. He was married to Doris for nearly 70 years and is survived by Doris and their four children, Wendy Ross, Web and Colette Madison, Wade and Becky Madison, Skip Madison and wife Robyn Driscoll; grandchildren Wyatt Hermanson and his wife Tryna, Hunter, Sydney and Daniel Ross and his wife Lauren; Chris and April Madison, Matt Madison, Jason Webber and his wife Risa; great grandchildren Jorja and Brody; Reagan, Harlowe, Autumn and Noah; Lexie and Link; and Trystan.Interment will be Saturday, June 4 at 1:30 pm at the Rosebud Cemetery outside Absarokee. Memorial service will follow at 2:00 at Immanuel Lutheran church in Absarokee with a light lunch following.

Obituary Preview: Betty Lou Mothershead passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on the evening of May 19, 2022 at the age of 78. Mom valiantly fought Parkinson’s disease for many years. She underwent many health challenges in the past several years pushing through without complaint and typically with a smile on her face.Mom was born in Estevan, Saskatchewan to Muriel and Tom Clemes. Her sister and brother, Wendy and Rick, completed the family. Mom was the cutest little girl ever and gave Shirley Temple a run for her money. The family moved to Plentywood in 1953 and subsequently to Culbertson where her parents owned the local drug store. She honed her culinary skills at the drug store making malts and milkshakes. Mom graduated salutatorian of Culbertson in 1961.Mom went on to attend Kinman Business University in Spokane Washington. She met Dad, a fellow student at Kinman at the boat races in Cour de Lane, Idaho. She received her business degree in 1962.Mom and Dad were married in Coeur d’ A Lane Idaho in 1964. Three children were born to this union, Brenda, Barb, and Bryan; thus began Mom’s convention of signing cards and letters –“the 5B’s.” Her family was her world. She sacrificed her hopes and dreams for all of us. At the height of Covid and her most challenging health issues, she would do everything she could to make it to her grandson’s rodeo events. She was happiest outdoors, kept a well maintained house, and there was no better hostess.She loved spending time at the cabin up Bridger Creek. Ranching was the centerpiece to mom and dad’s life in their later years and the staple that held it together was fishing. You could find mom along the Clark’s Fork River on any given Sunday with a pole in one hand (not grandpa’s ) and a cold beer in the other.Her grandchildren equated her likeness to Betty Boop at an early age and it never changed. She lived her life fearlessly and without regrets. She loved her family more than anything and it showed through her actions and sacrifices. Our beloved Betty Boop will surely be missed.She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Mothershead, her parents, Tom and Muriel clemes, her sister and brother in law, Victor and Wendy Vallejo, her brother in law, Doug Mothershead, and two nephews, Duane and Rick Mothershead. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Brenda (Scott, Reed, and Ethan), Barb (Bob, Andrew and Ryan), and Bryan (Tonya, Chase, Ashley and Parker, brother, Rick Clemes and wife Linda and family, niece and nephew, Eleno and Kristy and their family, sister in law Peg Mothershead (Lacy), and sister in law Alice Reider and husband Dave and their family.A celebration of life her life will be at 1:00, May 26, 2022 at Smith Funeral Chapel, 315 E. Third St., Laurel, MT.

Obituary Preview: Don was born December 7, 1933 in Viroqua, Wisconsin to parents Walter and Laura Heasty McClurg. He was the youngest of eight children. Don served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956 and continued on in the reserves until 1960. He married Faye Olson and had 5 children, four daughters and one son. He and his family lived near Minneapolis on horseranches and later moved to Montana and continued working with horses for the rest of his life. Don passed away peacefully at the Billings Clinic Hospital on May 18, 2022 following lingering illnesses at the age of 88. Preceding him in death are his parents, four brothers (Roland,Clinton, Eldon and Blair), two sisters (Lois and Helen), and one grandson (Jake Glover). Surviving him are his older brother Robert McClurg of Viroqua, WI, his former wife Faye McClurg of Westby, WI, his children Kim (Todd) Charnetski of Onalaska, WI, Colleen Stimpson of Kimberly, BC, Shawn (Cathy) McClurg of Absarokee, MT, Kati McClurg of Fernandina Beach, Fl, Kari (Jolyon) Sawrey of Bellevue, ID, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and severalnieces and nephews.Don will have a headstone placed at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Laurel, Montana.

Obituary Preview: Robert Thomas "Bob" Weatherford, 85, of Laurel, passed away on May 12, 2022, at Billings Clinic Hospital. Bob was born September 26, 1936, to Lawrence and Helen (Dougherty) Weatherford in Fromberg, Montana. He was raised on the family farm in Fromberg. He graduated from Fromberg High School in May 1954. After high school, he worked for local farmers and at the Exxon Service Station where his older brother Jim was his boss. On June 25, 1960, Bob married Cenra Jean Ingraham. Always a mechanic at heart, he then worked for Scheels Hardware as a lawnmower repairman, and he repaired and sold skis. He worked at Conoco Refinery from 1967-1985, taking an early retirement. He then spent a short time selling life insurance for Lutheran Brotherhood in Hemet, California. Upon returning to Montana, he became an over-the-road truck driver for Sweetheart Bakery. He retired for good in 2006. Bob and Cenra also owned and operated Starlite Roller Rink in Laurel for over 25 years.When he wasn’t busy dirtying his hands, working to improve every engine he could, Bob loved to fish. Many family memories were made on the boat, whether it was just a day trip or a week-long camping trip. Family was always important to Bob, and his favorite way to spend a day was surrounded by the people he loved. Bob and Cenra’s home has hosted family gatherings for birthdays, holidays, and “just because” meals, and there’s no better place to gather for the annual 4th of July celebration. Bob served several terms on the church council at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Laurel. He was especially proud that those years helped establish the church’s preschool that several of his grandchildren would eventually attend.Bob is survived by his wife of nearly 62 years, Cenra; their three children, Kimberly (Paul) Jeroma of Federal Way, WA, Keith (Kirsten) Weatherford of Laurel, Kenneth Weatherford of Laurel; daughter-in-law Meghen DeMarco of Billings; ten grandchildren, Kristen (Ronnie) Newton, Sophie Jeroma, Matthew Jeroma, Keenan Weatherford, Kelsey (Brian) Menahan, Kailey Weatherford (Gage), Kendra Weatherford (Pete), Kinley Weatherford, Jorden DeMarco, and Jensen Weatherford; four great grandchildren and a fifth one expected in September; brother James (Ada) Weatherford; brother-in-law Denel (Judy) Ingraham; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence, and Helen Weatherford; Uncle Melvin Weatherford; nephew Brian Weatherford; and in-laws Claud and Lorreine Ingraham.Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 23, at 10:30 a.m. at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1108 24th St. West, Billings, MT. Memorials can be made to Christikon Lutheran Bible Camp, 1108 24th St. West, Billings, MT 59102, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101, or the charity of one’s choice.He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Obituary Preview: I was Born in the fall of October, 1946 in Honolulu, Hawaii.I've lived a wonderful life.I lived in Hawaii, New York, and California before moving to Montana.I met my wonderful partner in life Len McLelland in California while he was serving in the Navy during Vietnam. What a character.We married in October of 1967 and our adventurous life began.I moved to Montana with my daughter in 1971, to join Len and in 1972 we were blessed with our daughter. Together made a family of four.We began moving around working construction jobs. Enjoyed it and met many authentic individuals during this period of time before settling in Laurel, Montana.I have loved so many things, beautiful sunrises/sunsets, the ocean, snow, rain, wildlife, fishing, hunting, gardening, sewing, cooking, family get togethers, vacationing, family/friends, helping others and sharing our stories. Also, loved one heck of a good laugh and a practical joke.I was just a plain ole country girl at heart.I was preceded in death by both parents, a brother and 2 grandchildren.I am survived by my beloved husband Len of 55 years, 2 children Melody Milne & Gina Campbell, 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.My beloved Len, daughters, grandchildren and friends how grateful I am for having you in my life. You have taught me so much both good and bad but all worthwhile. I know you all thought I talked to much and to loud and was opinionated at times, but that of course was me and there was only one me. So until we meet again, live your life with love! Thru her journey she wrote her own obituary. Till the end she was concerned more of the needs and wishes of others than with her own. She was truly one of a kind! Always lending a helping hand. A heart bigger than words cand explain. She was loved so very much by her family and friends. There will forever be a void in our hearts until we meet again. Mom, wife, grandma and great-grandma...... YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!!!

Obituary Preview: Stephanie Ray Goodman, 58 of Laurel Montana, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, Wednesday, May 11, 2022.Stephanie was born January 20, 1964 in Billings, MT. She attended Broadwater Elementary, then on to Lincoln Junior High, and finally graduating from Senior High School. After her schooling she briefly lived in California before eventually moving back to make Montana her permanent home.Stephanie was a member of the Rotana Club in Laurel like her grandmother and mother before her; where she was the youngest secretary for the organization. Her quick wit and earnest attitude also made her a formidable addition to her mother’s card club. She could play an impressive hand of pinochle.Stephanie worked for Sysco where she met several close friends; many of which she enjoyed playing a game of cards with too.Above all things, Stephanie enjoyed spending time with her family. Her greatest joys in life were the moments she shared with her nieces and most recently her two great-nieces. Some of her favorite times were had during the annual girls trip over President’s Day holiday weekend with her sister and nieces.Stephanie was a devoted daughter, a wonderful sister, a loving aunt, and a caring friend. She will be missed deeply.Stephanie was preceded in death by her parents RosaLee and Johnny Goodman. She is survived by her brother Jody (Kathy) Goodman, sister Michelle (Harry) Bowers, nieces Brandy (Nick) Metzger and Brookie (Dexter) Trask, and great-nieces Lena and Brett.A private memorial will be held in her honor. In Lieu of flowers please be kind to someone. Call a friend or family member you have not reached out to in a while.

Obituary Preview: Timothy Kenneth Wilcox, of Laurel, MT, passed away May 6th, at his residence after losing his five year battle with a rare form of cancer. Born on April 16th, 1949, in Greely, CO, to Ken and Anna Wilcox, he was raised into the ranching life with four siblings Herb, Steve, Patti, and Mike. They moved from Wyoming to Colorado and eventually Montana where Tim finished high school in MilesCity. Tim’s strong sense of duty lead him to enlist in the United States Army in 1968 where he served as a helicopter mechanic in the 101st Airborne Division during the years of the Vietnam War. His years of service brought him to Germany and Camp Eagle in Vietnam. But upon coming back from Vietnam is when his life truly began as he married his soulmate Theresa Kay Sherman on April 24th,1972. They recently celebrated fifty years of marriage. Tim and Kay started their life together on the family ranch in Columbus, MT. Five years later they moved to Forsyth, MT where they settled to raise their family and Tim went to work as a coal minerin the near-by town of Colstrip. He had a successful career there where he retired at the age of 55. Everyone who knew Tim knew family was his life and this includes extended family as well. He loved a gathering more than most. Family vacations, family reunions, any gathering where we could all be together was when Tim was most happiest. And don’t forget the ice cream, Tim’s love of ice cream was known far and wide and there was not a better connoisseur! In their retirement Tim and Kay enjoyed living in different places to include managing a ranch in Deer Lodge, Billings, Sheridan, MT and several years in Sequim, WA experiencing the ocean life. Tim loved to sit at the beach with Kay and watch the different ships go by. Eventually Montana startedcalling dad home and they moved back and settled in Laurel. Tim is survived by his beloved wife Kay, son Chad Vail and his wife Robin and grandson Anthony (Jasper), daughter Tracie Pyeatt and husband Doug and grandkids Jakob, Riley, and Bridget, son Wayne and his wife Katie and grandkids Owen, Benjamin, and Kenadi, son Curt and his wife Amanda and grandsons Maclain and Griffin. Tim is also survived by his brothers Steve and Mike Wilcox, and sister Patti Mogen. He was preceded in death by his mom and dad and his brotherHerb Wilcox. A celebration of Tim’s life will be held August 13th, 2022 at The Front Porch 109 W. 1st Street Laurel,MT.

Obituary Preview: Sandy Gillitzer left her family on Friday, May 6 2022, at home, with Roman by her side. Sandy was born in St. Paul Minnesota, on March 7, 1946 to Scott and Janet (Wells) Green. Her and her sister Jo grew up in Bald Eagle MN, and attended school in White Bear Lake MN. She met her husband Roman after high school there, and were married in 1967. Her first son Eric, was born in 1969. In 1970, they moved to Billings Montana, for Roman’s work. In Billings, her second son Nick was born in 1971. In 1978 she started to work for CTA Architects-Engineers as a book keeper, a job she continued to work at until 2005. She was involved in baseball and soccer with her boys, and was a Den Mother when her boys were in Cub Scouts. She enjoyed her flower gardens and the vegetable garden, at the house in Billings. Once her boys moved out of the house, she learned how to spin wool and weave on a loom. She was a home canner and over the years canned all types of vegetables and jellies, and made some of the best pickles known. Period.Over the years in Billings, she and Roman served in various positions at the Yellowstone Rifle Club. She was a very good pistol shot, and also competed in Hunter Benchrest League Matches with Roman in the late 1970’s. She was a very good rifle shot and bested many of the male shooters, including Roman, on many occasions. Over the years, Sandy was called on many times, to assist Roman and the other pistol shooters in the “Excellent in Competition” pistol matches, also known as “Leg Matches”. She and other wives were enlisted to be a 5th or 6th shooter for that Military style leg match, using an M1911 Gov’t Model .45 ACP pistol, shooting Gov’t issue ball ammo.In the early ‘80’s Roman, Sandy & their 2 boys started attending Mountain Man Rendezvous, helped along by many close friends. Sandy’s weaving fit right in with this new direction. She made many straps on her looms to use for various items. Sandy was taught how to do beadwork with seed beads and pony beads by Tom Hardy, Bob Ross & Tim Kober, who also attended these same Rendezvous. She crafted many beautiful things, made clothing out of buckskin and cloth for the boys, made small buckskin bags, helped bead a cradle board with our friend Tom Hardy, she beaded a large Crow pattern blanket strip, made moccasins, and did all of the beadwork on her buckskin dress. She made many, many items to sell at Rendezvous.In 2000, her and Roman moved to Park City MT and lived on 5 acres on the banks of the Yellowstone River. While there, she became more involved in the Prairie Hand Spinners group. She also served as treasurer for Senior Helping Hands and the Montana Gerontology Society, for a number of years.She was treasurer for the Park City Community Center. Then served as President of the Park City Senior Citizens Club until her passing.Sandy is preceded in death by her mother and father. She is survived by her husband Roman of Park City, and her sons Eric and Nick, both of Bozeman. Memorials may be made in Sandra's name to the Special K Ranch at 34 Special K Ln, Columbus, MT 59019

Obituary Preview: Gene A. VanOosten, 73, of Reed Point, MT, passed away after a short illness at Stillwater Billings Clinic on May 2, 2022.Gene was born in Pray, Montana to parents Arthur and Shirley Van Oosten. He grew up on the family ranch, and attended school first at Antelope Point. Later he went to Reed Point, where he graduated. After high school, he went on to MSU Bozeman where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business. He then went back to live and work at VanOosten Ranch. Gene also spent some years on the Board of Directors for the local Cenex here in Columbus.Gene married Wendy Owens in 1993, and later had two kids, Ashley and Cody. He attended church regularly the last few years at Beartooth Bible church.Gene leaves behind two children and a son in law, Ashley and Chance Conner, and Cody Van Oosten. He also leaves behind 4 grandchildren: Mae, Amy, Lucy, and Jeremiah. Gene is also survived by his brother and sister in law, Robert and Charolotte VanOosten; and nieces and nephews as well.Gene was preceded in death by parents Arthur and Shirley VanOosten.Special thanks to various family friends and family members for the support and encouragement provided these last few weeks. Also special thanks given to Billings Clinic Hospital in Billings and Stillwater Billings Clinic here in Columbus.

Obituary Preview: Terry Lee Goddard passed away peacefully on April 23, 2022 at Billings Clinic Hospital, after an extended hospital stay, surrounded by his family.He was born to Lee Charles (Chiz) and Rose Helen Goddard on February 20, 1951, in Billings, MT. He grew up on the family ranch east of Reedpoint and graduated from Reedpoint High School in 1969. He married Victoria Ann Benson of Laurel on September 19, 1969. They had two children Ron and Jason. Terry and his family bought a ranch in Lodge Grass and lived there from 1973- 1977. The family moved back to Columbus in late 1977, where Terry and Chiz purchased a farm north of Columbus. That same year, Terry and Chiz also opened Goddard’s Repair Shop in Columbus. The Repair Shop was a staple in the community until about 2009 when medical reasons forced Terry to slow down from welding. He then resumed his farming and wood cutting business. He worked until the day before he went into the hospital. Terry was one of the hardest working guys anyone ever knew; nothing ever kept him down. He played hard and worked harder. He was a very talented welder who could custom build anything from grill guards, to flatbeds, trailers, or handrails for homes, and many other unique items. He was best known for his “Goddard Tough” grill guards. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with the boys.Terry is preceded in death by his parents Chiz and Rose Goddard, his special Uncle Gary Goddard, and other numerous aunts and uncles.He is survived by his beloved wife Vicki of 52 years. His sons Ron (Trish), Jason (Tressie), his grandchildren Nate, Caitlyn, Connor, Keegan, Ash, Lily, Halle, Olivia, Gus, and Bodie, all of Columbus. He truly loved and enjoyed each of his grandkids.He is also survived by his sisters Diana (Bob) LeBrun, Mea (Ted) Weiss and numerous nieces and nephews.A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Chapel. A burial will be held at a later date.