2000-2009 MT, Compiled by James W. Blankenship jkblank1(at)sbcglobal.net

Montana Death Records

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~mtmsgs/death_records.htm

Blankenship, Harry, L. 05/28/2001

Blankenship, Selma, Montana 05/22/2002

Blankenship, Clarice, Agnes 03/5/2002

From: diane dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Big Horn

2009, Crow Agency, Big Horn Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Friday, January 9, 2009

After a courageous struggle and battle, DuWayne McCurdy, Crow Warrior, accepted a welcomed peace, took his last breath and passed on to the paradise in The Other Side Camp, on Jan. 8, 2009, in the Crow Agency Hospital. He took his first breath of life on March 14, 1952, in Wagner, S.D., at the Indian Hospital.

Multi-talented, DuWayne was a musician, electrician, skilled and experienced in many construction trades, writer, composer, entrepreneur and advocate for justice for the American Indians to receive the deserved, yet delayed, compensation for all the wrongs that have been done to the indigenous people of the western hemisphere - in particular the Crow and Sioux, the blood he proudly carried from his first to his last breath. Among the many loves of DuWayne, besides his loving parents and close friends and relatives, was the Crow Reservation, the Big Horn, Wolf and Pryor Mountains and the rivers of the Crow Indian Reservation. His honored Crow Indian name is "Gets His Medicine From the Mountains "Awa-xaa-xbali-dochish." He was an avid gardener, hunter, outdoorsman who participated in many traditional and religious ceremonies of the Crow and Sioux Tribes, including the Sun Dance and vision quests - fasting and praying in the mountains of the Crow People.

DuWayne chose not to leave anyone. He simply knew and accepted that it was time to pass and join his family and other loved ones in The Other Side Camp. This was understood and accepted by all who he loves and all who love him. We know he remains in the mountains and along the rivers of the Crow Indian Reservation eternally. His father Marvin and sister Gisele M. Parker preceded DuWayne in death.

Survivors include his mother, Donna McCurdy; his children, Nate (Kim) Blankenship, Sparrow McCurdy and Iren (Tara) McCurdy; a sister Colette (Butch) Hall; a brother, Kent S. (Sandy) McCurdy; and eight grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place in the Bullis-Eastern Montana Crematory. Memorial services will be held at a later date..

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Custer

+2002, Miles City, Custer Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Friday, May 24, 2002

Selma Montana Venable Cooksey Blankenship, 91, of Miles City, died Wednesday, May 22, 2002, at the Friendship Villa Care Center. Private family funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Riverview Cemetery in Savage.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2002, Miles City, Custer Co., MT, Obituary

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/36905821

Selma Montana Venable Cooksey Blankenship, 91 of Miles City, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at the Friendship Villa Care Center. She was born on May 1, 1911 in Miles City, the daughter of J. M. and Cora(Eis)Venable.

Selma grew up in the Pine Hills area of Miles City and attended the Meadowbrook School. She graduated from Custer County High School in 1930. She was baptized in Christian Church in Miles City when she was 16 years old. Selma attended two years of nurses training in Rochester, Minn., but major surgery caused her to leave the school. Selma married Claude C. Cooksey on Aug 2, 1934. Born to this marriage were two children, Allan Gordon and James Joseph. Claude passed away on Dec 4, 1937. Selma completed college in Great Falls and went to work for Deaconess Hospital in December of 1944. Selma married John Spencer Blankenship on June 23, 1947 in Miles City. Born to this union were four children, John Spencer, Van Lee, Bert Edward and Willaim Robert.

Selma enjoyed ranching, Morgan horses, embroidery, houseplants, all children and spending time with her family and grandchildren. Selma was a member of the National and Ding Dong Cowbelles. National Cattleman's Association, American Morgan Horse Assoc., and First Christian Church.

Selma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John in November of 1979; and two sons, Allan Gordon and Van Lee.

Selma is survived by four children; James Joseph(Jan)Cooksey of Lompoc, Calif., John Spencer (Becky) Blankenship III of Broadview, Mont., Bert Edward (Debbie) Blankenship of Otter Creek, Mont., and William Robert (Kitty) Blankenship of Glendive; 9 grandchildren 11 great grandchildren; special niece, Rita Venable; special friend Karen Losing Dean; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Private family funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 1p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Riverview Cemetery in Savage.

2005, Miles City, Custer Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Sunday, April 17, 2005

June Harriet Brown Shelden, 90, of Miles City, passed away April 14, 2005, in the Miles City Friendship Villa. She was born June 30, 1919, in Miles City, a daughter of Harry Delbert and Lena Strickland Brown of Powderville. June came of pioneer stock. Her grandfather, Albert P. Brown, settled near Yankton, S.D. in 1873 and is credited with being one of the founders of Rapid City. Her father homesteaded on the Powder River in the early 1900's. June grew up on her parent's ranch, on the Powder River, and attended country school, Sand High School in Broadus.

On Aug. 18, 1934, she married Terry S. Chapman of Ekalaka. They had one daughter, Juanita in 1935. They were subsequently divorced. On June 1, 1943, June married Everett E. Shelden. The couple was married for 20 years and had two children, Carol Lynn and Jerry Dean. During this time, they lived in Wyoming, Arizona, California and Montana. In Miles City, June's last employment was as a nurse's aide at the Holy Rosary Hospital. She especially enjoyed working with the elderly. After a car accident, in 1966, she retired on disability. She lived in Miles City and Billings, returning to Miles City in 1993 and residing at Friendship Villa. Her sister, Elsie Burrill and two brothers, Jerry and Harry Brown Jr. preceded June in death.

Survivors include her daughters, Juanita Blankenship of California and Carol (Jerry) McAbee of Arizona; and her son, Jerry Shelden of Georgia; a sister Esther Kua of Washington; one granddaughter, Denise Smith of Alaska; and two great-grandchildren, Bethany and Christian.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, in the Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel of Miles City has been entrusted with the arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Dawson

+2002, Glendive, Dawson Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Wednesday, March 6, 2002

Clarice A. Blankenship, age 60, of Glendive, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2002, surrounded by family and friends, at her home, after a courageous battle against cancer. Memorial Mass of Chris-tian Burial will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, March 8, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with Father Joseph Ponessa officiating. Private family interment will be in the Dawson County Cemetery. Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home of Glendive is entrusted with arrangements.

Clarice was born on March 10, 1941, in Wolf Point, the daughter of Louis and Claudia (LeMieux) Legare. She graduated from Wolf Point High School with the class of 1959. Clarice married Don Blankenship on April 25, 1964, in Wolf Point. They moved to Glendive in 1973, and Clarice worked various jobs until becoming the activities director at the Glendive Medical Center Extended Care Facility, doing the job and working with people she loved dearly. Clarice was a lifetime member of the Catholic Daughters. She was active in numerous community support groups. Clarice was instrumental in successfully organizing the Glendive Relay for Life Cancer Benefit and she shared her experiences and wisdom to benefit many.

Survivors include her husband, Don, of Glendive; three sons, Paul and Jonna of Glendive, Mark and Aimee of Parker, Colo., and Noel of Glendive; one brother, Larry Legare and his wife Barb of Wisconsin; one sister, Lois Merkel and her husband Lawrence of Seattle; five grandchildren, Maggi, Kendra, Robert, Mariah and Paul "P.J." Jr.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Donald E. Blankenship – b.01Sep1944 - , MT: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K1QD-PXJ

Relatives - Clarice Blankenship, Mark J. Blankenship, Noel C. Blankenship, Paul E. Blankenship.

2005, Glendive, Dawson Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Tuesday, January 4, 2005

Shawn Odwin D'Ewart, age 25, died on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004 at Fallon, Nev., from injuries received in an automobile accident. A Life Tribute Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 10, in the Chapel of the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive, with Celebrant Sandy Silha officiating. Shawn was born on Feb. 16, 1979, in Helena, to Tina Littlefield and Jack D'Ewart. He was a ranch foreman and also rode in Pro Rodeo in the Western States. Shawn was preceded in death by an aunt, Deborah Hobbs; and an uncle, Charles Grice, Jr.

Shawn is survived by his three children; his mother, Tina Littlefield of Falcon, Mo.; his father, Jack D'Ewart of Townsend; two sisters, Brandy D'Ewart and Dawn and her husband Drew Wanner, all of Great Falls; also special beloved friends, Stacy and Samantha Unruh, both of Glendive; his maternal grandparents, Charles and Donna Grice; his aunt and uncle, Alice and J.W. Blankenship; and his uncle, Paul Grice, all of Falcon, Mo.; also numerous nieces, nephews, great-aunts, uncles and cousins.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2009, Glendive, Dawson Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Carole Lee (Botcheller) Wyse, age 74, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009, at the Glendive Medical Center, with her family at her side. Carole Lee was born March 23, 1935, in Oceanside, N.Y., the daughter of Thomas and Carroll (Langdon) Botcheller. She was raised and educated in Oceanside, graduating from Oceanside High School. While in high school, Carole Lee was on the badminton and field hockey teams. She spent her weekends at the riding stables. She was the secretary of her senior class and a member of the National Honor Society with the graduating class of 1952. After graduation, she went to work with New York Bell Telephone Company as a customer service representative.

Carole Lee met Cal Wyse at the Hidden Valley Dude Ranch, in Lake Luzerne, N.Y. The following year they were married on Aug. 5, 1956, in Uniondale, N.Y. During the winter months, Carole Lee and Cal made their home in Glendive and they spent their summers in upstate New York - where Cal worked at Roaring Brook Dude Ranch, which enabled Carole Lee to spend time with her family on Long Island, New York. In 1977, Carole Lee and Cal made Glendive their permanent residence. Carole Lee loved following her family to all their events. She joined her husband and daughter at their rodeo outings, her son at his baseball games, her granddaughters at their sporting events and her great-granddaughter at her horse shows and swimming events. She enjoyed playing Tuesday night bingo, and liked spending some time at the Keno machines.

She is survived by her daughter, Pam Wyse, her granddaughters, Sheyenne Roesler and Stefanie Roesler, and her great-granddaughter Layne Roesler, all of Glendive; two sisters, Lenore Churchill and her husband Frank of Swampscott, Mass., Betty Dee Foster and her husband John of Freeport, Long Island, N.Y.; numerous nieces and nephews and her best friends, Lynn Granmoe and the Bill and Kitty Blankenship family of Glendive. Carole Lee was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Carroll Botcheller; her husband Cal and their son Tommy.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a vigil service at 7 p.m. at the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive with Father Joseph Ponessa officiating. A life tribute service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Glendive with Celebrant Sandy Silha officiating. Interment will be at the Dawson County Cemetery in Glendive.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Dawson Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Clarice A. 60-61, 10Mar1941 - 05Mar2002, Glendive, Dawson, MT, MT-516-44-7192

Flathead

2007, Columbia Falls, Flathead Co., MT, Obituary

Williston Daily Herald (ND) - January 19, 2007

Dorothy Dean Rinker Johnson Newman, Dec. 14, 1919 - Dec. 23, 2007 COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. - Funeral services for Dorothy Dean Rinker Johnson Newman were held Friday, Dec. 30. Internment was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia Falls.

Dorothy Dean Rinker was born in Minot, on Dec. 14, 1919 to Amos and Jennie Rinker. She graduated from Minot Model High School and worked for various farms in the area. She married Lloyd A. "Slim" Johnson also from Minot on Jan. 24, 1942, in Wolf Point, Mont. Norman, of Poison, Mont., was born in Bismarck, and Wanda Miller of Fairview, Mont. was born to the couple while they resided in Glasgow, Mont. where Slim ran the sales yard for Harrington Brothers from 1946 to 1952. The family then relocated to Williston, where the couple divorced in 1960. Dorothy relocated to Martin City, Mont. After completion of a training course at the Kalispell Business College, she went to work for Canyon Logging Company and FK&L Lumber Mill in Martin City.

Dorothy and her supervisor, Betty Kartheiser, developed a friendship that lasted for decades. Together, they traveled throughout the Pacific Northwest and Canada. It was on one of these trips to Radium Hot Springs that their photos were taken by a National Geographic photographer. Dorothy's picture subsequently appeared in the July 1966 issue. The Kartheiser family taught Dorothy the fine art of fly fishing, which she enjoyed immensely.

Besides traveling, Dorothy enjoyed hiking, picking huckleberries, gardening, and hunting for meat, not trophies. Russ Baeth, took her into his hunting camp in the Bob Marshall Wilderness as a cook. When her cooking duties were done she was allowed to hunt. So she went out and shot a spike elk, whitetail buck, and a black bear. The Hungry Horse News, a Pulitzer Prize winning newspaper, published a photo of her with her elk and her hunting story. She had shot the black bear in the head at a range of about 4 feet with a .357 Colt while it was trying to get one of her elk quarters out of a tree. The headline read "Modem Day Diana." One spring day, Marietta Downes called Dorothy to come up to her place above Martin City to help her dispatch a brown bear. Dorothy used one of Lee's rifles to shoot the bear out of a tree. After complaining to Lee that it took many rounds to dispatch the bear, he told the women they had used his gopher loads! Dorothy learned many of her outdoor skills from her father, Amos.

Late one June afternoon as it was growing dark while they were fishing for bull trout by Blankenship Bridge, Amos expressed a desire to go home. He was in his late 60s and was tired. She kept saying that after one more cast they would leave. Finally, in exasperation, Amos muttered that if she fell in the river he would have to run upstream in an effort to save her as she was too stubborn to float downstream!

Dorothy went to work for the Anaconda Aluminum Company in Columbia Falls as a receptionist and printer operator. She printed many of the hilarious cartoons drawn by Elmer Sprunger. While working there, her supervisor, Kent Newman, introduced her to his brother, James. After a brief courtship the two were married. Dorothy and Jim traveled and enjoyed life until Jim suffered a debilitating stroke. Dorothy took early retirement to care for him. He subsequently passed away in a nursing home in Lewistown, Mont. Dorothy had a beautiful home on South Hilltop Road in Columbia Falls that she worked very hard to improve and maintain. She had fruit trees of all kinds including apple, apricot, cherry, pear, and plum. She also had a huge strawberry bed, raspberry patch, and garden. She loved to plant trees and flowers, mow the lawn, weed her many flower beds, and can her harvest. Due to huge increases in property taxes while on a fixed income, she sold her property and moved to McMinnville, Ore. After awhile, the ever increasing property taxes drove her back to Montana where she purchased a condo in Lewistown. Ill health forced Dorothy to move to eastern Montana. First she lived with Wanda in Fairview, then the Savage Sunrise Manor, and finally after a stroke, at the Sidney Health Center Extended Care in July 2005. She passed away due to a stroke and old age on Dec. 23, 2006.

Dorothy is survived by her son Norman, in Poison and his wife Emily Peck. His children: Teresa (Kurt) Malzer, and their son Benjamin, Grovetown, Ga.; Jacey Johnson and her son Connor McGee, Boise, Idaho; Alicia Cummings and her children Makayla and Noah, Wanda and her children: Beth Purcell of Kent, Wash.; and Lisa Miller of Auburn, Wash. Other survivors include grandchildren Sari and Charlotte.

Preceding her in death were her mother and father, Amos and Jennie Rinker of Columbia Falls; her sister Delores Ritter of Whitefish; her half brother Charlie Rinker of Westport, Wash.; her maternal grandmother, Jennie Stepp of Minot; her uncle Bob Mills of Whitefish; and granddaughter Joleen Johnson of Kalispell.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Flathead Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Ray J. 82, 09Sep1920 - 12Jan2003, West Glacier, Flathead, MT, MT-517-07-8338

Gallatin

+2004, Bozeman, Gallatin Co., MT, Obituary

Bozeman Daily Chronicle (MT) - January 12, 2004,

Ida Mae Moorhead, 71, of Bozeman, passed away Jan. 10, 2004, after a four-year-long courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and just a few hours after the death of her son, Donald. She was born Sept. 30, 1932, in Lead, SD, to Paul and Mary Ann (Blankenship) Brandeberry.

Ida Mae graduated from Saint John's School of Nursing in 1951, where she became a registered nurse. She worked at the Deadwood, SD, Hospital for five years. She married Donald Omer Moorhead in Spearfish, SD, in 1954. The family moved to Bozeman, where she worked at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for 28 years, becoming the day supervisor and the head ER nurse. Gardening was Ida Mae's passion, and she loved to watch the mountain blue birds in her flower garden. She spent many happy days camping and fishing with her family. She enjoyed reading and spending time with family at home.

Ida Mae was preceded in death by her father, Paul Branbeberry; husband, Donald Omer Moorhead I; son, Donald Omer Moorhead II; and brother, Dick Brandeberry.

Ida Mae is survived by her daughter, Nancy Jo (Tate) Gensemer, and son, Mark Moorhead, both of Bozeman; and grandchildren, Corey Gensemer, Jennifer Moorhead, and Donald O. Moorhead III, all of Bozeman, and Laura Moorhead of Phoenix, Ariz.

A celebration of life will be held later.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Mary Ann Ashbaugh was the SDau. of Edward L. Blankenship

Gallatin Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Wade W. 42, 08Jun1961 - 26Jul2003, Belgrade, Gallatin, MT, MT-517-82-2435

Lincoln

2008, Troy, Lincoln Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com

Darren Samuel Hoagland, 47, died Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at his home in Troy. He was born Dec. 3, 1960, in Lewiston, Idaho, to Leon and Betty Blankenship Chromie. His stepfather Ron Hoagland preceded him in death.

Survivors include four sons, Branden and Trevor Hoagland, both of Troy, Samuel Hoagland of Oklahoma and Nick Hoagland of Clatskanie, Ore.; brother, Doug Hoagland of Oregon; sisters, Terri Amacher and husband Graham of LaPine, Ore., and Gwen Vllines and husband Ted of Clatskanie; and parents, Leon Chromie of Lewiston and Betty Layton of Clatskanie.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, at the Nelson & Vial Funeral Home in Libby.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Missoula

2001, Missoula, Missoula Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com

Purdon Alexander "Pete" Anderson, 80, passed away peacefully Thursday, Dec. 6, 2001, of natural causes at his home in Missoula. He was born June 15, 1921, in Colfax, N.D., to Phillip and Thora Anderson. Pete spent his childhood and teen-age years on the farm in Colfax and in 1942 he joined the U.S. Navy, where he served aboard the USS Natoma Bay in the South Pacific until the end of World War II. He married Delores Burke on Feb. 8, 1948, in Fargo, N.D. In 1956 they moved to Missoula where Pete received his journeyman pipe fitter license, continuing that occupation until his retirement in 1985. He loved his trade and it was said that he was a master at his profession. In 1975, Pete moved briefly to Libby, where he worked on the Libby Dam project. In 1985, he married Nelda Marshall, his devoted wife and companion the remainder of his years. Pete had many interests in his life which included tinkering with cars, carpentry, fixing up old homes, and doing odd jobs around the house. If you ever wanted to get a hold of Pete, you could usually find him out in his shop working on his latest project. In addition to enjoying his work hobbies, Pete loved entertaining friends and family. People could not help being drawn to his humorous wit and charm. His love of music should not go without mention as well. If not in his shop, you could find him in his music room chording his guitar and singing. Along with his personal interests, Pete was an active member of VASA, a member of the Sons of Norway and a lifelong member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, Local No. 459. In addition, Pete was one of the first people to start a Baptist fellowship in Missoula, helping build a strong congregation of Baptists in the community.

Pete is survived by his wife Nelda of Missoula; sons Mike, Steve, Tim and Jon of Missoula; stepson Tom Blankenship of Denver; daughters Kathy Danforth of Sheridan, Wyo., and Susan Mikkelson of Missoula; brothers Gordon (Carol) Anderson and Pete Anderson; sisters Olive (Irv) Peterson and Phayme (Laverne) Hendrickson; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Phillip, mother Thora and sister Elizabeth Zentgraf and her husband Del of Minnesota.

Memorial services with military honors will be 10 a.m. Monday at the Mountain View Baptist Church. Private interment will take place at Missoula City Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2002, Missoula, Missoula Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com , Monday, March 18, 2002

Lillian A. Legreid, 67, of Missoula, passed away of natural causes Sunday, March 17, at Hillside Manor. She was born Feb. 6, 1935, in St. Ignatius to Clarence and Marie Newton. As a young girl, Lillian lived with her family in Missoula and was educated in Missoula public schools. She helped her older brother Clarence with a newspaper route and was active in athletics at school. She had a great sense of humor and endless generosity for others with tremendous pride in her children.

Survivors include her mother Marie Newton; three sons, Mark, Harry and Jay Love of Gillette, Wyo.; daughter Jerry Blankenship of Missoula; siblings Virginia, Violet, Clarence, Anita and Mary; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. The Rev. Bob Baker will officiate. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Stewart Blankenship, Richard Curnow, Jim Keller and Steven Blankenship.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Jerry D. Blankenship – b.17Jul1965 – Missoula, MT: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K15Y-R3K

Relatives - Amanda Blankenship, Steven D. Blankenship, Stewart D. Blackenship, Stewart Blankenship, Stewert Atwood, Stuart G. Blankinship.

2006, Missoula, Missoula Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com

Grace Poppe, 98, of Missoula, passed away Monday, Feb. 20, 2006, in Deer Lodge. Grace was born Aug. 5, 1907, in Chicago to John and Emma (Brenner) Lenz. She was the ninth of 10 children. On Dec. 18, 1926, she married Walter H. Poppe in Chicago. In 1928, they moved to Deer Lodge. When steady work couldn't be found they moved back to Chicago in 1929. But in 1936, they came back to Montana and settled in Missoula. She was preceded in death by her parents, seven brothers and two sisters. Her husband died July 1, 1972, in Missoula. She was also preceded in death by her twin great-grandsons, Boyd and Brody Blankenship.

Survivors include her son, Walter C. Poppe of Missoula; her daughter and son-in-law, Montana &#8220Sis" and Zak Zachary of Garrison; granddaughter, Holly (Larry) Blankenship; great granddaughters, Braydi and Bryli Blankenship, all of Butte; and grandson, Matt (Erin) Wells of Spokane.

Grace worked many years as a pen inspector for Wahl-Eversharp in Chicago. In Montana, she devoted her life to her family. She was a creative homemaker, fantastic cook and baker, seamstress, wonderful wife and mother. Mom (Grandma), we will remember you at your happiest - sitting in the back yard on a warm summer day, laughing, watching the kids play and eating ice cream bars. We will all miss you and love you always. May you rest in peace.

Memorial services will be held later in the spring. Arrangements are under the care of Garden City Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Park

+2005, Livingston, Park Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Tuesday, January 4, 2005

Clara Blankenship Koch, 90, of Livingston, died Monday, Jan. 3, 2005, at New Horizons Assisted Living.

Cremation has taken place at Franzen-Davis Crematory in Livingston. Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, at Livingston Golf and Country Club. Burial of the cremated remains will take place this summer in Park View Gardens Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Powell

2005, Deer Lodge, Powell Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com

Arlene H. Hanig of Deer Lodge passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 2, 2005. She went to heaven in the presence of her six daughters and a son-in-law. Arlene was born Dec. 22, 1922, in Green Prairie, Minn., to Frank and Regina Edden.

She and her sister Vivian were raised in the Little Falls, Minn., area where she met and married Ken Hanig; they wed on Feb. 10, 1947. They were married 47 years when Ken passed away. Through their union they were blessed with six daughters. During their early years of marriage, they lived in several communities in Minnesota, Kalispell and eventually settled in Deer Lodge in 1960, where Arlene and Ken owned and operated Skogmo Clothing Store. Arlene also worked at the Department of Motor Vehicles until her retirement in 1985. She lived in Deer Lodge until recently when she moved to Helena to be nearer to her daughters. She was a 50-year member of the Kalispell Chapter of Daughters of Isabella. In Deer Lodge, she was a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish, I.C. Guild, VFW Auxiliary, Lady Elks, Senior Citizens, Ultreya, Bunko Club and several sewing circles. In Helena, she participated in the Hunter's Pointe Red Hat Society and their many other groups and events.

Arlene was extremely kind and caring and would do whatever she could to help those in need. She was recognized by the American Red Cross for donating over five gallons of blood in her lifetime. Arlene enjoyed traveling, camping, sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting and gardening. However, her biggest enjoyment came from spending time with her family and friends. Her paintings, quilts and afghans are beautiful and appreciated by all those who have seen them or received them as gifts. Our loss is Heaven's gain.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ken, sons-in-law Chuck Stevens and Craig King and many good friends.

Arlene is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Vivian and Gerald Kieley of Minnesota; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Betty and Bud Parkhurst of California; six daughters and four sons-in-law, Diane and Keith Blankenship, Donna and Tom Doney, Paula Hanig and Joe Schendel, all of Helena, Doreen Ellis and Patty King of Missoula and Susan Gendreau and Jack Wolcott of Butte. She also leaves 11 grandchildren and their spouses, eight great-grandchildren, eight nieces and nephews and 15 step-grandchildren and foster grandchildren.

Visitation will be at noon Tuesday, Sept. 6, followed by the wake service at 7 p.m. at the Jewell Funeral Home in Deer Lodge. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Immaculate Conception Church in Deer Lodge with a reception to follow. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. in Helena at the Fort Harrison Veterans Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Keith R Blankenship – b.Sep1972 - Helena, MT: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K1QB-GJJ

Relatives - David Blankenship, Diane L. Blankenship, Jessica M. Blankenship, N. J. Blankenship, Paul J. Blankenship, Paul J. Blankenshipp

Ravalli

2001, Hamilton, Ravalli Co., MT, Obituary

www.missoulian.com

Maxine Elizabeth Foote, 52, of Hamilton, passed away Monday, Feb. 5, 2001. She was born April 16, 1948, the daughter of Loren and Ruby Priest Garrett. Maxine was raised and educated in Troy. When she was in second grade, she met the man that she would eventually marry. Maxine and Clyde E. Foote were married July 28, 1967, in Troy. The couple moved to Everett, Wash., where Clyde worked for the county sheriff's office. Following Clyde's retirement the couple moved to Hamilton in 1993, where they have resided since. Maxine worked in Hamilton as a certified nurse assistant providing home health care, and also worked as a house cleaner. Maxine was serving as the current chaplain of the Leona Chapter 31 Order of Eastern Star in Hamilton.

Survivors include her husband Clyde of Hamilton; daughter Michelle and husband Paul Rempa of Seattle; son Gary and wife Tawnya Foote of Anchorage, Alaska; one granddaughter; three sisters, Alice Pederson of Grand Junction, Colo., Ann Blankenship of Woodland, Calif., and Pat Wilson of Lapwai, Idaho; brother Steve Garrett of Troy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is tentatively planned for March 8 at the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton.

Cremation has taken place and private family urn placement will take place at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Rosebud

2008, Hathaway, Rosebud Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Monday, March 17, 2008

James C. Patrick, 85, of Hathaway, passed away March 16, 2008, in the Miles City Veterans' Administration Nursing Home. He was born Nov. 17, 1922, to Samuel and Roxie Phillips Patrick in Braman, Okla. The family moved to a wheat farm near Jordan in 1927. He grew up and attended the Kinsey schools, before graduating from Custer County High School in 1941. While in high school, he worked as an apprentice meat cutter. He moved to California and worked on the construction of warplanes until enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served over 100 consecutive days in a rifle squad during the battles of the Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. After his courageous service, he received a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star before receiving his honorable discharge in 1946.

Jim married Fama Northcutt and was later divorced; to this union three sons were born: Gary (Cora) of Forsyth, Jim (Linda) of California and Tim (Linda) of Miles City. He married Helen Moody on Sept. 13, 1965, in Roundup and the couple made their home in Hathaway. He purchased the Hathaway General Store in 1946, where he served as Postmaster for 31 years and a self-employed general store and tavern owner for over 51 years. He was a member of the Methodist Church, National Association of Postmasters, League of Postmasters, the Moose Lodge, the American Legion and the VFW for 47 years. He enjoyed gardening, carpentry and his family. Jim was preceded in death his wife, Helen; daughter Sharon Patrick; grandson Ben Hope; sisters Bea Cobb, Gladys Haun, Mae Hay and Teresa Anderson; and brothers Floyd, Olin, Jay and Cecil Patrick.

Survivors include his four stepchildren, Tommy Breen, Birdie Blankenship, Leona Carnline and Patty Breen; a brother, Carl (Ruth) Patrick of California; 11 grandchildren; numerous other grand- and great-grandchildren; step-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held in the Bullis-Graves Memorial Chapel from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 20, and 1 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 21. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, March 22, in the Chapel. Interment with military honors will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Silver Bow

Silver Bow Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Harry L. 74, 14Aug1926 - 28May2001, Butte, Silver Bow, MT, CA-563-22-7470

Stillwater

2003, Columbus, Stillwater Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Friday, October 31, 2003

Dorothy May Buell Erie, "Grandma D," of Columbus, died peacefully at the Stillwater Community Hospital, on Oct. 28, 2003. She was born Dec. 13, 1914, in Sentinel Butte, N.D. Dorothy married Herman Erie, May 4, 1938, in Butte. They owned a grocery store in Ennis until 1941, when they moved to Columbus, where they owned and operated theaters in Absarokee, Columbus and Ennis. The Eries employed many young people who have remained friends over the years. They moved to their ranch south of Columbus in 1955. After they sold the theaters, Dorothy worked in health care as an assistant to Dr. Neville and later in elderly care. In later years, "Grandma D" spent countless hours baking birthday cakes, cheering at ball games, hiding Easter eggs and sharing her love of life with children of all ages. "Grandma D" was selected the 2002 Stillwater County Senior Citizen of the Year in recognition of her years of service to the community. Dorothy delivered Meals-on-Wheels and served on the board of directors for the Stillwater Senior Citizens' Center. Dorothy was active in her faith and served on the St. James Lutheran Church Council. "Grandma D's" courage, laughter and wisdom are a legacy her family and friends will never forget. Her husband, Herman, her sister Jean, and brothers Ralph and Don preceded Dorothy in death.

She is survived by her brother Ralph's family in Oregon, including Mildred, Gladys, Tom, David, Danny and Aunt Grace; her Columbus family, Pat Holman, Lois Frerck and her "grandchildren," Aaron and Krista Holman, Willy, Coley and Jenny Frerck, and Theresa Blankenship. Special friends include June Matovich, Mary Gonzales, Elinor McDaniel, Donna Nystul, Christi Longin, Tom Hinthorne, the Blankenships, Martins, Marstaellers, Jobs, Holmans, McClures, Russells and many others.

A friends and family viewing will be held Sunday, Nov. 2, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Chapel in Columbus. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at the St. James Lutheran Church in Columbus. Graveside services will follow at the Madison Valley Cemetery in Ennis.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2004, Columbus, Stillwater Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Wednesday, January 7, 2004

Herbert Franklin Holmgren passed away on Jan. 5, 2004. Herb was born Nov. 9, 1924, to John and Nellie Holmgren.

He graduated from Columbus High School in 1942 and joined the Army in April, 1944. Herb was wounded while serving with the 10th Mountain Division in Italy and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Following his discharge in May, 1946, Herb attended Montana State University and graduated June 11, 1951. Herb remained active in the American Legion throughout the years. Herb worked on the family ranch located west of Columbus for many years. He married Geraldine "Jerry" Bolton Scovill on Oct. 18, 1975, and they lived in California for several years before returning to Columbus. Herb dearly loved their little Chihuahua, Molly, and was often observed taking her for daily walks. Herb enjoyed playing pool with his wife and numerous friends at the Senior Citizen Center in Columbus. Herb and Jerry enjoyed visiting in Arizona in the winters.

He was preceded in death by his parents and eight brothers and sisters.

Herb is survived by his wife, two stepsons, Tom and Don Blankenship, and stepdaughter, Donna Blankenship, of Billings. Herb is also survived by his brother John and his wife, Margo, also of Billings, and a brother Paul and Margaret, of Fishtail. Herb also has numerous nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him.

Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the Community Congregational Church in Columbus. A reception will follow.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2005, Columbus, Stillwater Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Tuesday, August 30, 2005

Earl E. "Duke" Crockett, 54, of Columbus, passed away Aug. 29, 2005, in Billings. Born in Alexandria, VA, Duke, a Vietnam veteran, served in the United States Marine Corp from 1969 to 1975, when he was honorably discharged.

His father, Earl E. Crockett, Sr., precedes him in death.

Duke is survived by his wife, Lyn; mother, Hazel Crockett of Alexandria, VA; daughter, Michelle Crockett-Aivaz; son-in-law, Jeffrey, and grandchildren, Madison, Connor and Preston. His special parents-in-law, Jack and Patricia Blankenship; sisters and brothers-in-law and cherished nephews and nieces also survive him.

A celebration of Duke's life, with military honors, will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Eucker's residence.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2009, Columbus, Stillwater Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Sunday, February 8, 2009

Jack Blankenship, born and raised in San Diego County, Calif., of Columbus, Mont., died peacefully Friday Feb. 6, 2009.

Jack played baseball for the California League until sustaining injuries in World War II. Jack served his country in the Army in the 84th Infantry Division in World War II receiving a Battle Field Commission in 1944, at the age of 22. He also received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Jack was a member of the Alpine Volunteer Fire Department. He was an avid supporter of FFA, 4-H and youth baseball clubs. He was an honorary member of the El Cajon Valley FFA Chapter. Jack was a founding member of the Eastern San Diego County Jr. Fair and a member of the Lakeside Rodeo Association. He dedicated his life to his wife, children, grandchildren and the youth of his community. He was a wonderful father, grandfather and a loving husband and will be truly missed by all who had the honor to know him.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, one brother, and his son-in-law Duke Crockett.

He is survived by his wife Patricia; four children Kathleen (Steve), Lyn, Kevin (Mary), Joey (Scott), and his son-in-law Steve Hegstrum; six grandchildren, Ty, Courtney, Justin, Theresa, Amy, Daniel; and five great-grandchildren.

Private family services will be held.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Stillwater Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Andrew J. 86, 26Aug1922 - 06Feb2009, Columbus, Stillwater, MT, CA-553-22-1567

Wibaux

2007, Wibaux, Wibaux Co., MT,

www.billingsgazette.com , Friday, April 13, 2007

Loren "Dick" Dixon Cale, age 68, of Wibaux, passed away on Thursday, April 12, 2007, at his home north of Wibaux. He was born on March 4, 1939, in Wibaux County, the son of William "Bus" and Louisa "Mert" Cale.

Dick was educated in Wibaux County schools. From a very young age, Dick worked cattle, sheep, and broke horses on area ranches. Dick married Marvel Johnson on April 10, 1957, and the couple had two sons: Randal and Sloan. Throughout his life, Dick farmed, worked in the oilfield and worked as the Wibaux County Road Supervisor, retiring after 37 years. Dick was also a volunteer fireman for Wibaux County for 23 years.

On April 13, 1989, Dick married Pamela Moriarty Burman, which brought four stepchildren into their family: Michelle, Jesica, Naaman and Newly Burman. Dick loved roping and working with horses. Together, Dick and Pam enjoyed working cattle and riding endurance, and most of all, the couple took pride in raising their family and being together as one another's best friend. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Bus and Mert Cale; his brother, Rue Cale; his stepson, Naaman W. Burman; his daughter-in-law, Morgan Cale; his father-in-law, Lenard Johnson; and his dear friend and brother-in-law, Van Blankenship.

Dick is survived by his wife, Pamela of Wibaux; his son, Randal Cale and his wife Sylvia of St. John's, N.D.; his son, Sloan Cale of Arlington, Wash.; his stepdaughter, Michelle David and her husband John of Green River, Wyo.; his stepdaughter, Jesica Thiel and her husband Charles of Savage; his stepson, Newly Burman and his wife Jenny of Dickinson, N.D.; his brother, Curt Cale and his wife Ilene of Wibaux; nine grandchildren, Tahnee Sweep and her husband Chad of Glyden, Minn., Shauna Cale of Mandan, N.D., Tyrel Cale of Fargo, N.D., Christal David of Townsend, Cody David of Rock Springs, Wyo., Megan Sayer and Jasmine David, both of Green River, Wyo., Sawyer and Sterling Thiel, both of Savage, and Owen Burman of Dickinson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 15, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Chapel of the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Wibaux. Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 16, at 2 p.m., at the Calvary Temple Assembly of God Church of Wibaux, with Pastor Warren Maxted officiating. Interment will follow in the Wibaux Cemetery. Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home of Wibaux is entrusted with arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Yellowstone

2003, Billings, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Obituaries , Wednesday, June 11, 2003

Due to respiratory failure, on June 9, 2003, Mom left to join Dad and Linda in heaven. Mom came into this world as Bonnie Boe, the daughter of Les and Ethel (Farber) Boe on Dec. 3, 1922, in Newell, S.D. Mom grew up in the South Dakota area, graduating as class valedictorian at the age of 16 from Whitewood High School. She immediately started her lifelong career in the stockyard industry at Belle Fourche Stockyards. In 1945, Mom moved to Miles City with her parents and sister. She married the love of her life, N. Don Venable, on Dec. 26, 1947. Mom and Dad spent the rest of their lives working as a team. In 1953, they moved to Glendive, where they owned and operated the Glendive Sale Yard. Mom and Dad returned to Miles City in 1962, and in 1970, the call came from Public Auction Yards here in Billings, where they both spent the rest of their working years - Mom even worked this past Monday. During her many years of service to the agricultural community, Mom was recognized for the dedication and knowledge that she so quickly offered. She was tickled to be featured as one of the Cattle Business Pioneers in a recent article in the Western Livestock Reporter. She was known throughout the area as one of the quickest pencils around - she could figure an "average" quicker than any computer today.

Left to honor her memory are her children, Betty Lou and Johnny Ley of Worden, Tom Venable and Charity of Miles City, Suzi and Roger Steffanich of Billings, Kay and Bob McDermott of Federal Way, Wash., Rita Venable and Ron of Lakeside and Terri and Al French of Billings. Mom also leaves her legacy of 15 adoring grandchildren and 14 precious great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, LaVerne Pauley of Miles City; and five nephews and one niece and their extended families. We would be remiss if we did not mention that Mom considered her livestock friends an important part of her family as well. Mom has now joined Dad and her parents as well as her daughter, Linda Lee. Also preceding her were brothers and sister-in-law, Bob Pauley and John and Selma Blankenship; and her nephews, Bobby and Bill Pauley.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 13, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Burial will follow in Custer County Cemetery. The family will gather with friends at the VFW in Miles City following services as a time to share our wonderful memories of a Great Lady. Thanks, Mom, for all the love you gave us. There are no final goodbyes - until we meet again, you will forever be in our hearts.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2003, Billings, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , April 25, 1920 - Oct. 5, 2003

Oleta M. Hensley, of Billings, passed away Oct. 5, 2003, at home with her husband at her side. After battling a long illness, she is finally at peace. Oleta was born April 25, 1920, in Oilton, Okla., to Ed and Minnie Blankenship.

Her father Ed worked with Mobil Oil for 40 years. She met Clifton Hensley in 1939. He was a flight instructor during the war. They married on Feb. 11, 1941. She and Clifton moved to Cody, Wyo., in 1944, and fell in love with the western lifestyle and the beautiful mountains. They eventually moved to Billings, where Clifton worked for Continental Oil and raised their two children, Lee and Colleen.

Oleta was part of a bowling league, dabbled in painting, made beautiful crocheted blankets, taught Sunday School for 20 years and was an active member of the Billings Church of Christ. Her devotion to the Lord and her strong faithful example helped lead many souls to Christ. After Clifton retired, they spent many wonderful years at their cabin in Red Lodge and camping in the Beartooths and Yellowstone Park. Oleta lived life to the fullest, loved her family and was a spiritual inspiration to all who knew her. Even in the face of hardship and pain, she still managed to keep her sense of humor. We will remember her when we see a beautiful sunset, take a drive to see the changing of the leaves, look at the clouds and see animals, take a walk in the mountains with our walking sticks, when we eat a good sandwich and piece of pie, hear a beautiful hymn, read a certain scripture and look into the eyes of our children. These are some of the things she loved. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her but she will live on in our hearts. "We love you, Nana. See you soon."

Oleta was preceded in death by her parents. Her only sibling, Jack, was killed in a plane crash in WWII.

She is survived by her husband who cared for her for many years; her son, Lee Hensley of Casper, Wyo.; her daughter, Colleen (George) Fishbaugh of Thermopolis, Wyo.; her five grandchildren, Shawn (Cindy), Lanny (Tracy), Colette (Robert), Amber (Will) and Trista; eight great grandchildren, Nicholas, Melissa, Sierra, Austin, Dally, Shayla, Sequoia and John.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Billings Church of Christ, 10th and Alderson, on Oct. 9, at 11 a.m., with a reception following the service at the church. Cremation arrangements were by Cremation or Funeral Gallery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2004, Billings, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com ,

Verda Blankenship, age 90, passed away of natural causes on Nov. 18, 2004, in Billings. Verda was born March 23, 1914, in Huntington, WV, to Leonard and Rose Blankenship.

Verda married Matthew Schafnitz on June 22, 1935. She was a member of Eastern Star in Billings. She enjoyed taking care of her family and home. Her hobbies included gardening and tending to her beautiful roses. She was also a tremendous cook.

Verda is survived by her son, Sherman (LaVerne) Schafnitz; daughter, Darlene (Steve) Pekovich; son, Matt (Tina) Schafnitz of Newport Coast, Calif.; son, Ted (Debbie) Schafnitz, of Murrietta, Calif.; brother, Don (Vi) Blankenship, of Salem, Ore.; and sister, Connie (Wayne) Jerke of Del Rapids, S.D.

She is preceded in death by her sons, Louie Schafnitz and Toby Schafnitz; daughter, Charlotte Flohr; brothers, Lawrence Blankenship, Al Blankenship, and Bill Blankenship; and sisters, Kathryn Jansma, Charlotte Luper and Mary Jane Roe.

Graveside services will take place on Monday, Nov. 22, at 3 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Family and friends will gather at the cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2004, Billings, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Saturday, February 28, 2004

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2004, after a long-fought battle to remain with her loved ones, the most brave and beautiful person we've ever known, our mother, Charlotte Rose Flohr, said her goodbyes and peacefully moved on to the happier place that she so richly deserved. Mother - we will miss you. We will celebrate you. We will give thanks for having had you all the days of our lives.

Charlotte was born in Billings on Dec. 29, 1941, the ever-smiling and accepting daughter of Matthew Schafnitz and Verda Blankenship. She graduated from Senior High in 1960, and attended Billings Business College. After working for Montgomery Ward in the accounting department, Charlotte moved on to manage the office of Go Sportsman, and in doing so, found the sportsman in herself. She discovered she loved to fish, camp and otherwise relax in the peaceful quiet of the outdoors with her family and friends.

She had trouble starting a fire, but ever the optimist, she said it was nothing lighter fluid couldn't fix. Married to our father, James H. Flohr for 10 years before his passing, our Mom finished the job of raising three great children, Toni Sammartino, 38, of Billings; Traci Flohr, 34, of Billings; and Shane Flohr, 28, of Galesberg, Ill.

Charlotte is survived by her children; mother, Verda; sister, Darlene Pekovich; brothers, Sherman Schafnitz, Ted Schafnitz, Matt Schafnitz, and brother in spirit, Don Blankenship. She goes to be reunited with her father whom she always adored, her husband, her baby brother, Toby Schafnitz and brother, Louie Schafnitz. Charlotte also has four beautiful grandchildren that she goes to watch over, Nikko Sammartino (15), Rhys Sammartino (10), Hayden Flohr (5), and Croix Flohr (5 months); as well as the loving spouses of her children, Micheal Sammartino and Melissa Flohr. Mom, we hope this day finds you dancing, laughing and once again in the company of those that you love - not an end, but a beautiful joyful beginning.

Funeral Services will take place at 10 a.m., March 2, at Ocee Johnson Chapel, in Chapel Court at St. John's Lutheran Ministries, 3940 Rimrock Rd, Billings. Interment will be held at 12:30 p.m. in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2005, Billings, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Saturday, April 2, 2005

Tina Heinrichs, 90, of Billings, went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 31, 2005, at Aspen Meadows. She was born July 12, 1914, at Waldheim, Saskatchewan, Canada, the oldest child of Cornelius and Elizabeth Bergen. On Dec. 12, 1934, she married Jacob Robert Heinrichs settling with her husband on a farm north of Wolf Point, where she enjoyed gardening and attending to her many beautiful flowers. She was an excellent cook and was well known for her delicious baked goods. Her favorite pastimes were embroidering and reading. Tina was a woman of strong Christian faith and lived her life accordingly. She was preceded in death by her husband Jacob "Bob" Heinrichs and a granddaughter, Deon.

She is survived by her four children: Vern Heinrichs (Barb) of Tacoma, Wash., Iris Fromdahl (Bob) of Billings, Lois Schmitt (Werner) of Billings, and Bob Heinrichs of Tacoma, Wash.; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., on Tuesday, April 5, at Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point. The burial will follow services at Bethel Wolf Point Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to The Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, 1732 S. 72nd W., Billings, MT, 59106, or Feed the Children Fund, or to Missionaries Phil and Marlene Blankenship, C/O Iris Fromdahl, 1730 Prescott Dr. Billings, MT 59105.

Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary and Clayton Stevensons Funeral Chapel are in charge of arrangements.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2004, Laurel, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Wednesday, March 17, 2004

On Tuesday morning, March 16, 2004, at the Laurel Evergreen Rehabilitation and Health Center, Katherine Jansma went home to be with her precious Lord and Savior, after a long courageous battle with congestive heart failure. Katherine was born Aug. 25, 1916, in Glenn Alum, WV, as one of eight children to Leonard and Rose Blankenship. In 1930, Katherine moved with her family to Billings, where they settled and made their home. While growing up, Katherine worked in various private homes and cared for the elderly. While living in Billings, Katherine met William "Bill" Jansma and they married on June 1, 1935. Together, they raised sons Dwayne, Sam and Dave on the Jansma Dairy Farm on King Ave. They purchased Holstein cattle and would enter their prize cows and bulls in the local fair as well as various fairs around Montana. As a result of these competitions, they received many trophies and awards for their cattle. Katherine busied herself by working along side her husband and sons in the milking parlor as well as tending her home and household chores. Although the dairy was hard work for the family and Katherine, they made room for and had lots of fun with their "extended sons," Glenn Fink, Curt Seeman, Jack Todd and Ed and Fred Jellison. All the while, she was learning to be a barber. She also graduated from the Chicago School of Nursing.

In 1958, they sold the farm and moved west of Laurel, where together they operated a farm with a feedlot for fat cattle. During these years she joined with the women in the farming community in their garden club and exchanged flowers to beautify their yards. Katherine worked diligently in her flowers, gardens and her raspberry patches, all the while cooking those delicious homemade meals for all the crews that tended the crops at harvest time. After Bill's death, Katherine moved to Billings for a short while. She then purchased some land and moved near Park City, where she, her beloved Aunt Marge and Sister Charlotte "Penny" lived on that land. Being a hard worker, Katherine raised a band of sheep and tended her garden. For health reasons, she sold this land and then moved to Laurel.

Katherine is preceded in death by her husband Bill; son Dwayne; father Leonard; mother Rose; sisters Mary Jane Roe and Charlotte Luper; brothers Albert and Bill Blankenship

She is survived by sons Sam (Frankie) Jansma and Dave (Ella) Jansma of Laurel; sisters Verda Blankenship of Billings, Connie Jerke of Dell Rapids, S.D.; and brother Donald Blankenship of Oregon City, Ore. Katherine is also survived by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren that she dearly loved. Grandchildren Mike Jansma of Oregon, Mark Jansma of Laurel, Marla Adams of Park City, Kathy Jennings of Knoxville, Tenn., Steve Jansma of Laurel, Jana Graff of Sioux Falls, S.D., Terri Jansma of Idaho Falls, Todd Jansma of Billings and Troy Jansma of Laurel. She is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral Services will be 10 a.m. Monday, March 22, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2004, Laurel Gardens, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

Obituaries , Monday, January 19, 2004

Penny Luper, 81, of Laurel Gardens, went home to be with her Lord and Savior peacefully during the evening on Jan. 16, 2004, after a brief illness. Penny, a daughter of Leonard and Rose Kennedy Blankenship, was born in West Virginia on July 26, 1923.

She and her seven brothers and sisters moved with their parents to Montana and settled in Billings. After the death of her mother, Penny went to work at St. Vincent Hospital. Shortly after, Penny moved to California to live with her sister and then decided to return home to Montana. Penny met and married John D. Luper and together raised their two daughters, Sylvia and Kathy. A baby boy was born but passed away at birth. During their married life, they lived in Billings and Penny was known throughout town as one of "best waitresses around." One such place the long established Muzzle Loader Cafe. After working there, they moved to Portland, Ore., to work and live.

Upon the death of her husband, Penny returned to Montana and lived by her sister and loving aunt near Park City. While living near Park City, Penny, her sister Katherine and Aunt Margie enjoyed going to church, studying the Bible, listening to gospel music and enjoying their faith in the Lord.

Penny moved to the Laurel Gardens which has been her "home." She has made many close friends there, and we would like them to know how much they meant to her. Her family sends many thanks to special friends June, Carol, Diane and Marie. One of Penny's special traits was her wonderful home-cooked meals that she willingly shared with anyone. She also enjoyed coffee time with "the girls" in the yard under the tree sharing coffee, treats and a story or two from Penny.

Penny is preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Luper; daughter, Kathy McKay; Aunt Margie Sheldon; sister, Mary Jane Roe, and brothers, Lawrence, Albert and William Blankenship.

She is survived by her daughter Sylvia Priest of Washington; sisters, Verda Blankenship of Billings, Katherine Jansma of Laurel, Connie Jerke of South Dakota; brother, Don Blankenship of Oregon; granddaughters, Gina Maldanado of Texas, Chrisie Swenson of Florida; grandsons, Bryan DeBorde and John and Doug McKay, all of Oregon. Penny has two great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews and friends. We will miss our mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be looking forward to meeting her in heaven to sit under the tree with coffee and stories. Cremation has taken place.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2008, Shepherd, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Thursday, February 21, 2008

Wanda 'Penny' Sindelar, 69, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008, in her home in Shepherd, surrounded by her family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born on July 4, 1938, in Helena, the youngest daughter of Carl and Mildred (Blankenship) Hibarger.

Wanda remained living in Helena throughout her teen years, graduating from Helena High in 1956. Furthering her education, she graduated from Eastern Montana College in 1958 with a two-year associate's degree in elementary education.

While attending school at Eastern, she met and fell in love with Robert Sindelar. They were married on March 25, 1958, at the Ft. Harrison Chapel in Helena. Thus they began their journey together. Moving to Saco after Bob finished grad school at MSU, Penny began working as a grade school teacher for a few years before deciding to become a substitute teacher when she and Bob started a family. Following a move to Valier and finally to Shepherd, Penny decided to work part-time again as a meter reader for the Yellowstone Valley Electric REA. She retired in 1990, deciding it was time to hang up the work boots and put on the grandmother apron! She and Robert have spent the past 18 years traveling between kids, grandkids, and trips with friends. They were able to see a lot of what the United States has to offer as well as spend countless days with her children and grandkids in Colorado and Washington.

Penny was very proud of the fact that her grandfather, Edwin Blankenship, was the first editor of the Kamin MSU student newspaper and helped to select the blue and gold color combination for the MSU Bobcats.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Edwin Blankenship; grandmother Julia Metheny; father Carl Hibarger; mother Mildred (Blankenship) Hibarger; half-sister Getha Uzzell; and her beautiful granddaughter, Kelsey Godwin.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Robert; her sister, Shirley Shapp of Osage Beach, MO; her daughter, Tracey Godwin and her husband Craig of Vancouver, Wash.; her daughter, Julie Sindelar of Seattle; her son, Steve Sindelar and his wife Theresa of Littleton, CO; and her beloved grandchildren, Jeris and Delaney Godwin and Dylan and Kohl Sindelar.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Smith Downtown Chapel, 925 S. 27th St., Billings.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2009, Shepherd, Yellowstone Co., MT, Obituary

www.billingsgazette.com , Saturday, October 10, 2009

Velna Gilbert, 77 of Shepherd, ended her journey on earth Oct. 7, 2009. She was born on Oct. 19, 1931, to Lena and Amund in Thief River Falls, Minn. She married Earl Pederson in 1949 in Fairview. They later divorced and she married Gibby Gilbert. They moved to Shepherd in 1973. "Vel," as she was known to all, worked for many years at Central Cleaners in Billings. After the passing of Gibby, Vel raised Guernsey Cows and kept a couple just because she enjoyed milking. he was fiercely independent as well as a hard worker despite the crippling of arthritis.

She is survived by three sisters and one brother, Amy Zahara of Great Falls, Emma Engblom of Mora, Minn., Ellen Bengtson of Manchester, Tenn., and Gustav Snare of Crete, Ill.; a son, Douglas Pederson and his wife Gael; daughter Ramona Jones and husband Donald Jones; grandchildren, Marci Blankenship, Jodeen Schnurpel, Donnie Jones and Thomas Jones; great-grandchildren, Ashley Jones, Quiyona Pederson, Jharell and Willie Bivens, Johnathan Blankenship, Joshua and Jacob Schnurpel.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Yellowstone Co., SSDI, http://ssdi.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/ssdi.cgi ,

Blankenship, Verda 90, 23Mar1914 - 18Nov2004, Billings, Yellowstone, MT, MT-516-60-7382