Patrick John Dixon, 59, passed away Nov. 6. Pat was born May 13, 1965, to Sandra Mae (Real) and Robert “Jerry” Dixon. Following high school graduation, Pat joined the Montana Army National Guard in 1984 and served until he retired in 2007. In 1986, Pat met Kathy (Menghini) Dixon. Pat and Kathy were married in June 1991. Pat worked for Charlie Beck on his ranch and for Deer Lodge County. He loved his animals, playing pool and going to the stock car races with the Hunter brothers.
Pat is survived by daughter Danica, stepson Casey, sisters Shelley Browning of California, Catherine (Dennis) Farr of Utah, half-brother David Ray, former spouse Kathy Dixon, stepdaughters Katie and Denise. Also, lots of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Pat was proceeded in death by his parents Robert “Jerry” and Sandra, brother Bob Dixon, stepson Douglas Meade, grandparents Catherine and David Dixon, and Eleanore and David Real.
Pat will be deeply missed by his family and friends. A Celebration of Life has already been held.

Bill Raymond, 80, was born to Eleanor and William Raymond in Oakland, Calif., at a military hospital near the end of WW II. Summers were the opportunity for Bill to spend with his grandparents Alphonse and Edna Ginther in Williston, N.D. He always considered that to be his home. In 1950, twin brothers Gary and Greg joined the family.
A dedicated family man, Bill married the love of his life, Avis, in 1964. A lifelong learner and a man of diverse interests and talents, Bill earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree, affording him a colorful and diverse career. Having lived in several places, Deer Lodge was his final home. He embraced the new community, and he often had a smile and story to share. For the full obituary, see www.wayrynen-richards.com.
Bill is survived by his daughters, Cora Sue (Frank) Legg of Port Barre, La., and Sarah (Jim Decker) Raymond of Deer Lodge; granddaughter, Tiphanie Legg; great-grandsons, Connor and Jayce Savoy; granddaughter, Alicia (Nic) LeMarie; great-grandchildren, Autumn, Nixon and Arden LeMarie; brothers, Gary (Kathleen) Raymond of Upland, Calif., and Greg Raymond of White Sulphur Springs, Mont.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please donate to your local food pantry or humane society in memory of William “Bill” Raymond. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be conducted in the summer of 2025 and will be announced. ​

David L. Dana, 82, passed away Nov. 5, peacefully, at home. He courageously battled cancer. He was born Nov. 9, 1942, in Deer Lodge.
David was the fourth child born to Loren and Mildred Dana. He grew up on the Dana Ranch east of Garrison and graduated from PCHS ,where he was very active in the FFA and VO AG.
David served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in South Korea. Upon coming home, he graduated from Northern Montana College in Havre. David’s career was spent in Great Falls as a field mechanic for T&E.
David never met a stranger, and he was known for his willingness to help anyone. Upon retirement, David moved to Elliston. The Avon Grange #125 and the Montana State Grange were important parts of David’s life. Flying was a passion for David, and he enjoyed flying his own plane. When you asked David how he was; he’d tell you: “Upside down and sideways.”    
David is survived by his brother, Neil (Ruth) Dana; sister, Carol Dana; many nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.
A memorial will take place in Avon at noon on Nov. 23 at the Avon Club House, with a luncheon to follow. David’s ashes will be spread at the ranch at a later date.

Dawn Goddard, 66, passed away at Community Hospital in Anaconda on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. She died from health complications following pneumonia.
Dawn relocated multiple times throughout her life but spent the majority of her life in Deer Lodge. She settled back in her hometown of Deer Lodge with her five children. There she met her significant other, Jack Graveley. Dawn met Jack in 1998, and they had a happy life together.
Dawn retired last year from Montana State Prison where she worked for several years. She enjoyed spending time up in the mountains with Jack and working in her garden. Dawn also liked bringing her family together by cooking, much like her mother before her.
Dawn was preceded in death by her parents Don Goddard (2016) and Norine Goddard (2023). Dawn is survived by her significant other, Jack Graveley; her siblings, Tom Goddard and Jan Alexander, and her children.


Roberta Jones, Heather Jones, Casey Jones, Thomas Goddard, and Benjamin Goddard. Dawn also had multiple nieces and nephews and grandchildren.
There will be no funeral service at this time. The family will be having a private gathering on a later date.
Please visit www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Dawn.

On Oct. 20, 2024, Stan Fries, 93, made one more trip up Mt. Powell to the Dempsey Lakes, but didn’t stop at the top this time. Stan passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends, in Deer Lodge, his home of over 55 years.
Phillip Stanley Fries was born April 9, 1931, on the family homestead in the Castle Mountains near Checkerboard, Mont., to Julius and Pauline Fries, the fifth of 10 siblings. He graduated school and worked in ranching, forestry, firefighting and logging in the White Sulphur Springs area. Stan served in the Korean War as a U.S. Army Corporal and communications lineman in the Signal Corps.
Stan and the love of his life, Theresa Chriske, married in 1969, and raised their family in Deer Lodge, where he worked in mining, and then as a guard at the historic and current prisons, until retiring in 1994 after 25 years. He continued working as a water commissioner into his 80s and was an avid gardener into his 90s.
Stan was preceded in death by his parents and all nine siblings. He is survived by his wife of over 55 years, Theresa; daughters, Wanda (Ray) Mellinger and Lynn (Luis) Torres; son, Theran (Janice) Fries; three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Services were held on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the First Baptist Church in Deer Lodge. Stan was laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.
Memorials in honor of Stan are suggested to the Deer Lodge Honor Guard, 271 Meadow Vista, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. These donations help support the Honor Guard and their services to veterans in our community.
Please visit longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Stan. ​

​Our Lord has called Kari Lynn Johnston Labbe, 62, into His glory. Kari was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend, who left us on Aug. 22, 2024. Kari was born in Billings on March 7, 1962, to Joseph and Judith Johnston. Throughout her life, she touched the hearts of all who knew her with her warmth, kindness and unwavering love.
Kari and her family moved around Montana in her early years. She attended kindergarten in Anaconda, first through fifth grade in Baker, and they made it home to Deer Lodge where she finished sixth through twelfth, and she graduated from Powell County High School in 1980.
After high school, Kari attended Eastern Montana College in Billings. She spent two years at Eastern before transferring to Montana State University in Bozeman, where she completed her degree in elementary education. During her teaching career, she taught almost all elementary grades, but the majority was spent in kindergarten. She was a passionate teacher, dedicating her life to nurturing and educating her students.
While she was attending college in Billings, she met Allan. Although they both grew up in Deer Lodge, they had no idea that the other existed until they met in 1980. They fell in love and were married on Sept. 3, 1983, marking the beginning of a life of love and laughter. In 1984, they moved to Superior, Mont., where she began her teaching career.
She was the proud and loving mother of three children: Logan, Shawna and Brian. Her love for her children was boundless, and she took immense joy in watching them grow into the wonderful individuals they are today. As a grandmother, Kari’s heart swelled with pride and affection for her eight grandchildren: Trey, Cassie, Jaxson, Eli, Kendrick, Quincy, Landon and Emma. They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Kari was a beloved daughter, sister and friend, always there to offer a listening ear, a comforting hug or a helping hand. Her compassionate nature and generous spirit were evident to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her life was a testament to the power of love, family and friendship. Kari’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will continue to inspire and guide her loved ones.
Kari was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Johnston, and her brother, Evan Johnston. She is survived by her husband Allan; her children, Logan (Toni) Labbe, Shawna (Michael) Williams and Brian (Sarah) Labbe; and her eight beloved grandchildren; her mother, Judy Johnston; sisters Janet (Ed) Janney and Elaine (Mark) Taylor; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Kari’s life was held Sept. 15 at Superior High School, where family and friends were invited to gather and share in the memories of a “life well-lived.” In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mineral Community Hospital or Superior School District 3 or Mineral County Pool in the Park.
Kari will be deeply missed, but her love and spirit will forever remain with us.

Byron Wayne Hill, 86, of Drummond, passed away on Oct. 8 at his residence, of natural causes. He was born on May 23, 1938, at Grassland Ranch in Drummond to Wayne Hill and Pearl Cannon.
He graduated from Drummond High School. In December 1962, he married the love of his life, Dayle Halverson. He grew up working on the ranch, was a breeder of registered Hereford cattle and said he never rode a broke horse. He eventually left the ranch and worked at Cominco Mine near Garrison. After that, he worked at TriCon Lumber and Alt Lumber before retiring.
Byron enjoyed doing yard work, gardening and wood working, panning for sapphires and gold, but his passion was fishing the lakes and streams with family and friends no matter what time of year. He cared about his family, friends and neighbors and was always there to help, day or night.
He is survived by his loving wife Dayle of 62 years, sister Marlene (Vern Person), brother Steve, son Mike (Deana), daughter Alicia Phelps (Joey), son Shawn and daughter Tasha Paulsen, along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, at Valley Cemetery.

Peggy Manley passed away Aug. 24 at her home in Deer Lodge. She had fought a hard seven-year battle with cancer and dementia.
Peggy was born on June 11, 1956, to John and Janet (Eccleston) Manley in Deer Lodge. She grew up at the family ranch outside Drummond.
Peggy attended grade school in Helmville and Drummond. She graduated from Powell County High School in Deer Lodge.
Peggy had a great love for animals. This led her to attend Northwestern College in Seattle where she earned an Associate Degree in Animal Science. She went to work at the Clark Fork Veterinary Clinic.
She moved on to the 4B’s Restaurant in Deer Lodge. Peggy was a cook and waitress there for many years.
Her next adventure was to start at Louisiana Pacific Lumber in the Finger Jointer. She was a hard worker and moved up to a Certified Grader.
Peggy next worked in the kitchen at Montana State Prison. She quit this job to take care of her mother. She then went to Sun Mountain Lumber and worked there until cancer made her retire.
Even after the cancer diagnosis, Peggy went back to work. She said she was bored. She was in housekeeping at Rock Creek Cattle Company.
Peggy enjoyed life. She believed you should work hard and play hard.
Peggy is survived by her sister Kerry (Dan), brothers Tracy (Sheila) and Nick (Lori), many nieces and nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. Her dog Bo Jangles was her constant companion and was with her to the end. She was preceded in death by her sister Cindi and her parents, Janet and John Manley.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.

James Phillip Sinerius passed away on Aug. 22. He was born July 27, 1940 to Frank and Georgia Sinerius in Ennis, Mont., the oldest of six children.
Phillip spent his early childhood in Ennis and Varney, Mont., until his dad returned from the service in 1946. The family then made their home in Elliston.
He went to school in Elliston and Deer Lodge until joining the Air Force in 1957, spending most of his Air Force days at Mountain Home and Strickland Air Force bases, where he was an engine mechanic.
After returning from the military, he and his brother Fred were married in a double ceremony in June of 1960 in Sheridan, Mont., at their parents’ home. Phillip and Helen had three daughters: Michelle, Rene and Rhonda. During this time Phil lived in Helena and East Helena, and worked at the smelter. The couple later divorced.
Around 1970 Phillip moved to Washington and Oregon where he worked doing auto repair and odd jobs. He married Linda and together they had two children: Wesley (Guy) and Cheryl. They later divorced and Phillip and the children moved back to Montana.
Phillip lived and worked around Sheridan and Virginia City for a short time before moving to Deer Lodge where he met Fawnie Powell, the love of his life. Together they blended their families and started to build their lives. Phil became dad to Kimberly and Shannon, and Fawnie became mom to Cheryl and Guy.
Phillip spent many years working on the gravel crusher. It was hard dirty work but he enjoyed it. He also continued to do auto repair and carpentry whenever he had the chance. He spent several summers in the 1990s in Nevada City working with his brother John and wife Carma where he helped guests pan gold and clerked at the hotel. He got a kick out of working with the tourists.
He in later years helped out at the Senior Center where he delivered meals on wheels and also did a stint gathering water sample collection for USGS.
Family was very important to Phil; his children and grandchildren and great grandchildren were the light of his life. Phil loved life and was always willing to give help and support to family and friends when needed.
Phil is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Georgia, brother Fred, and step daughter Kimberly.
Phil is survived by his wife Fawnie of Deer Lodge, daughter Cheryl (Marty) of Butte, son Guy (Jessica) of Norwich, N.D., step daughter Shannon of Deer Lodge, daughters Michelle (Warren ) of Jefferson City, Mont., Rene (Doug ) of Belgrade, Rhonda (Mark) of Whitehall, sister Judy of Dillon, brother John (Carma) of Nevada City, Mont., sister Joyce (Joe) of Bozeman, sister Marcia of Jefferson, Maine.
Grandchildren Joseph, Melissa, Cody, Phillip, Jess Marie, Britt, Cassidy, Tanya, Carly, Jarrod, Noah, Nicole, Gena, Nena and Charli, several great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
He was a blessing in all our lives and will be greatly missed.
No service has been scheduled at this time, but please feel free to call or stop by the family home.

Jean Kathryn Weissenfluh, 84, of Cascade Colo., passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, surrounded by her loving son and daughter.
Jean was born on June 26, 1940, in Philipsburg to Walter Arthur Jarvi and Eunice McClees Jarvi. She grew up in the town of Philipsburg and graduated from Granite County High School in 1958.
Jean had a deep love for her family and spent her youth helping her parents hunt and fish. She was actively involved in high school activities including 4-H, cheerleading and Rainbow Girls.
Jean later moved to California where she secured a job as a shorthand secretary for Joy Manufacturing. It was there she met her future husband Max Weissenfluh of Manitou Springs, Colo., while he was serving in the Navy on the West Coast. Jean and Max were married for 57 years and raised two children, Julie and Mark.
Jean Jarvi Weissenfluh is survived by her children Julie and Mark Weissenfluh. She was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, sister Joan and brother William “Billy.”
A Military Memorial Columbarium in their honor is located at Pikes Peak National Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Trilby Lee (Horrigan) Neitz, 89, passed peacefully on July 3 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She was born July 2, 1935, in Philipsburg’s Granada Theatre and spent most of her life in Philipsburg. An active member of family businesses, Trilby worked at the Granada Theatre with her parents, Frank and Betty Horrigan, and at the Philipsburg Mail with her husband, Dean Neitz.
A socialite at heart, Trilby loved her hometown and was devoted to local community organizations, bridge clubs and volunteer groups. She held very close a group of childhood friends that called themselves “the Old Maids” who often traveled together and loved each other very much.
Trilby was a lifelong lover of skiing, golf and Georgetown Lake. Trilby skied until her early 80s and golfed regularly. As one of the longest-standing Boat Club members, Trilby could most often be found on a summer day at the lake.
Trilby is preceded in death by her husband Dean Neitz; mother Julia Elizabeth “Betty” (Skafte) Christensen; father Frank Horrigan; stepfather Oswald Christensen; sister Kay (Horrigan) Elliston; and brothers-in-law Jack Neitz and Marty Carrick.
She is survived by her sister Pamela (Horrigan) Carrick; brother-in-law Bob Elliston; sons Frank and Van Neitz; daughter Sydney (Neitz) Petersen; son-in-law Brian Petersen; grandchildren Taite Petersen, Megan Snodgrass and Lynsey Williams, and spouses Megan, Chris and Travis; and great-granddaughter Winona Snodgrass. ​

Ivan Eugene Johnston, 95, was born Oct. 16, 1927, to Homer and Ethel Johnston in Whitley County, Ind. He died on Dec. 3, 2022, at Deer Lodge Medical Center in Deer Lodge.
Carroll Aloe Seiler, 87, was born Oct. 25, 1936, to Carroll and Burnett Seiler in Cripple Creek, Colo. She followed her beloved husband on July 17 at The Ivy Nursing Home in Deer Lodge.
A prayer vigil will be held fo
them both at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 16, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. A funeral mass will be said for them at 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 17.
   A burial service will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 18, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.
All friends and family are invited to attend.

​Gene F. (Sanders) Marker, Sr., 78, of Clancy, Montana, our Papa Bear, passed on July 26, 2024, surrounded by family.
Gene was born November 23, 1945, in Missoula, Montana to Wilbur Vernard Sanders and Goldie Metal (Marker) Sanders.
Gene was adopted by his grandparents, Gene Marker and Mina Marker in 1952.
Gene had 1 brother, Monte (Sanders) Marker.
Gene was raised in Philipsburg, Montana, graduating from Granite County High School in 1963. He enjoyed playing football and was captain of the wrestling team.  He graduated from Auto Mechanics School in Denver, Colorado in 1964. Returning to Montana he worked various labor jobs—a hard rock miner, logger and mill worker.
In 1964, Gene married Margaret (Margo) Kaiser and together raised three children:
Gene (Geno) Marker Jr., Shana Ann Marker Goddard, and Louise Michelle Marker Welsh.
Gene had one grandchild, Selena Goddard Paaso and one step grandchild, Cheyenne Welsh.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and brother, Monte.
Gene became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1967 and remained as such until his death.
Gene asked that a memorial service not be held in his memory. A graveside service will be held in the Philipsburg Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send your donation to the worldwide work of Jehovah’s Witnesses- www.jw.org/donation.

Albert Courtney Walkup passed away after an extended illness on July 14, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, just shy of his 88th birthday. Born on July 22, 1936, in Philipsburg, Montana, Al always considered it his true home. He was the son of Ben and Ellen (Courtney) Walkup and brother to Loretta Mazza.
After graduating from Granite High School and the Montana School of Mines/Montana Tech in Butte, Al pursued a career in Mining Engineering. He dedicated many years to opening and running mines across the country.
Al met his wife, Lois Webber, a nursing student from Plains, Montana, while attending school in Butte. They married on June 12, 1959, in Plains. Al and Lois had two sons, Daniel Todd and Douglas Alan. Al’s work took the family from Philipsburg to Jeffrey City, Wyoming, to Kellogg, Idaho, and finally to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he retired. Later, he returned to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he enjoyed being closer to family and friends in the Northwest and playing golf as much as possible until he moved to Los Angeles to be near his sons.
Al is remembered fondly for his kindness and energy by all who knew him. He is survived by his two sons and his cherished nieces Debbie Miller, Brenda Glines, and Karla McCale (all of Montana), whom he had the pleasure of watching grow up.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the American Lung Association (lung.org).
Albert Courtney Walkup’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.

Madison Ann King, lovingly known as Madi, was born on Nov. 17, 1994, in Deer Lodge. She passed away on May 21, 2024, in Havre, Mont. Her sudden departure has left a void that cannot be filled, and has deeply impacted her family and friends.
Madi was a radiant soul who brought joy to everyone she encountered. Her captivating beauty was only surpassed by the warmth of her heart. With her gorgeous long red hair cascading down her back and hazel eyes that sparkled with kindness, she had an enchanting presence wherever she went. Her beautiful smile and infectious laughter could brighten any room. She loved people, and she touched so many more than she could ever know.
From early childhood into adulthood, Madi’s endearing nature shone brightly through various stages of life. As a child, playing dress-up alongside big sister Alex, or, later, cheering passionately for Powell County Cheerleaders during high school years – every memory reflects the vivacious spirit that defined Madi. She was the best big sister to her four younger siblings, always being there for them. Madi attended grade school in Helena and Deer Lodge, graduating from Powell County High School in 2013.
Madi was  pursuing nursing studies at MSU/MT Tech before becoming a devoted stay-at-home mom after welcoming Blakely, Knox and Zephyr into this world – Madi exemplified resilience amidst unexpected turns in life’s journey.
Her love for being a mother was her greatest joy; she loved her three babies more than anything in the whole world. This was evident in every smile she shared with her children while taking them to the park or creating art together at home. She loved building with Knox, and her way of fixing Blakely’s hair was so beautiful. Madi found immense fulfillment in nurturing their young hearts and minds. With the time she had with Zephyr she was so in love, his time on earth was short, but this precious baby boy touched all of us.
She lived life to its fullest through simple pleasures like spending time with loved ones or embarking on adventures – camping under starlit skies, and playing games with family and friends were some of her favorite pastimes. Madi’s spirit exuded vitality as she embraced each day with enthusiasm and always looking beautiful – encouraging others to “Stay Wild” and savor life’s precious moments.
The bond between siblings held special significance for Madi as evidenced by cherished memories created alongside sisters and brothers during festive seasons spent making Christmas cookies together or simply reveling in each other’s company throughout their lives.
Madi’s legacy is carried forward by her two beautiful children: Blakely Antila (daughter), Knox Antila (son). She leaves behind her grieving parents, Marcie and Jeff Rahm and Shannon and Daylen King; sisters, Alex King, Olyvia King and Molly Rahm; brothers, Ozzie King and Will Rahm – all of whom cherished her dearly.
The loss of our precious Madi girl reverberates deeply within our hearts as we grapple with the reality that we will never again witness her radiant smile nor hear the melody of her laughter filling our lives once more.
May you rest peacefully now dear Madi – cradling your beloved baby boy close while looking down upon us from above as the angel you are.
Your gentle spirit will forever remain etched within our souls. We love you endlessly. Love, Your Family.
A Celebration of Madi’s and her son, Zephyr’s, lives will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 2, at the Elks Lodge #1737, 230 Main St., in Deer Lodge, MT 59722. A graveside service will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge. A reception will take place after the graveside service back at the Elks Lodge.
Memorials in honor of Madi are suggested to the “Blakely and Knox Antila Memorial Fund” at Valley Bank, 321 Fuller Ave., Helena, MT 59601, or any branch of Valley Bank by referencing the name of the fund, or by Venmo to @Marcie-Rahm (Madi’s mom, whom the memorial fund is set up through). The proceeds will be used for Madi’s children to assist in supporting them through their lives.
Please visit Axelsonfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Madi. ​

Katherine Elaine Brown, 74, of Deer Lodge, passed away on May 21  at the Ivy Health Care Center in Deer Lodge after a very long and courageous battle with cancer.
Kathie was born in Williston, N.D., to Floyd A. and Violet P. Yockim on  April 21, 1950, her mother’s birthday.  She was born the first of seven children, and spent her childhood years and attended grade school in Sidney, Mont.
Kathie learned to play and became a proficient accordion player at a young age.  She was also a member of the local 4-H group. At the age of 12, the family moved to Miles City, where she attended junior high and high school.
Kathie married Ted Williams in 1966 in Miles City. Ted and Kathie moved to Livingston in 1967. Together they enjoyed many outdoor activities including camping and fishing.  During their time in Livingston, they had two children, Anthony and Stephanie.
In 1972, Kathie moved to Deer Lodge where she worked in a variety of business and accounting jobs including UBC, Cable TV, Fickler Oil, also Triple S Building Center in Butte and Montana Ace Hardware in Missoula.
She also worked as a secretary to the Powell County extension agent, where she met the most wonderful ranchers and farmers and their families. Lastly, she was employed with the State Department of Justice, Title and Registration Bureau.
While in Deer Lodge she married Dan Roberts, and their two children were born, Jamie and Matthew Roberts. Later she married Ron Brown, and they had two sons Steven and Taylor Brown.
Over the years, Kathie was involved in her children’s activities. She served as a board member of the Babe Ruth Baseball, USAW Wrestling and AAU Wrestling Clubs, as well as being a member of the Warden Booster Club. Her children were also involved in 4-H clubs, exhibiting and showcasing their prize steers at the fair.
Her retirement years were spent doing the things she enjoyed most: reading, cooking, cross stitch, crossword puzzles, her elephant collection, watching horse races, family visits and crocheting. She spent many hours crocheting baby blankets for the newborns in the family and made many hats for the residents of the Ivy. She taught her granddaughter, Sierra, how to crochet and oversaw Sierra’s creation of potholders earning Sierra a blue ribbon at the fair.
Kathie enjoyed countless hours with her family and was loved by all for her conversation, quick wit, laughter and intelligence. Kathie will be missed by her loving family.
Kathie is survived by her six children, Anthony Williams of Flagstaff, Ariz.; Stefanie Marjerison (Jason) of Belgrade; Jamie Roberts of Deer Lodge; Matthew Roberts, Bowman, N.D.; Steven Brown (Jessie), Drummond; and Taylor Brown, Deer Lodge. Her 10 grandchildren: Chase, Taylyn, Lance, Brannon, Bryce, Kaynean, Koya, Wyatt, Sierra and Maddison. Her six brothers and sisters: Steven (Gloria) Yockim of Greeley, Colo.; Theresa (Mark) Elletson, Billings; Pauline Shepherd and Pamela Yockim, Deer Lodge; Tom (Theresa) Yockim, Bowman, N.D.; and Patricia (Gary) Reynolds of Deer Lodge.
“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” A celebration of life will be held later during the summer.
Memorials may be made to the local Cancer or MS Societies of your choice.

On April 21, Norene Joy (Daley) Lynch, 75, loving wife and mother of two children, passed away after prolonged illness in Helena.
Norene was born in July of 1948 in Grand Rapids, Minn., to Gene and Dorothy Daley, and together with her two older brothers relocated to Butte then Deer Lodge as a young girl. There she went on to graduate from Powell County High School in 1966 with a group of lifelong friendships she held close until her passing. She met and married Michael “Mick” Lynch, a railroad employee, in 1967 and began their small family in Deer Lodge with the births of children Jill and Jack.
The family relocated many times over the following decades following Mick’s railroad career with Norene working various retail jobs along the way. Upon Mick’s retirement, the couple moved back to their home state, settling in Helena among many loving extended family members.
Norene had a passion for travel and experiencing new and different cultures that led her and Mick to travel all over Europe, making new friends along the way. They especially loved spending time in their family’s native homeland of Ireland, bonding with distant relatives. Additionally, they found joy taking long scenic drives around the majestic lands and parks of Montana and the region.
Norene was always an avid reader, especially of history and historical fiction, as it was important for her to understand other people’s life experiences and perspectives. She was passionate about politics, equality and justice, always rooting for the underdog. She was a feisty woman who loved to tell a silly joke, also to be entertained by great comedic films and TV. Norene was a loyal, caring and supportive friend to those family members and friends she held close to her heart during her lifetime.
Norene is survived by husband Mick, brother Robert Daley of The Philippines, daughter Jill Lynch and spouse Suzanne Abbott of Atlanta, Ga., granddaughters Greta and Lucy, son Jack Lynch and spouse Kelly, along with a large extended family of brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews and cousins.
An informal gathering will take place to bury Norene’s remains at the St. Thomas Cemetery in Helmville at 1 pm. on Sunday, May 26. All are welcome to pay their last respects. - 409 Helmville Back Road, Helmville.
May our beloved and beautiful Irish lass forever rest in peace.

​Sharon Wilma Clute, born Sharon Wilma Williford on July 31, 1949, in Butte, Montana, passed away on April 9, 2024, in Drummond, Montana, at the age of 74. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years,
Keith Clute, daughters Tamara and Juanita Clute, grandchildren Heather, Justin, Nicholas, and great-grandchildren Ross, Daniel, Amber, and Michael, as well as sisters Joy and Jesse and brothers Tom and Loyal. Sharon was preceded in death by her mother Juanita Wyrick, father Earl Williford, step-father Loyal Clawson, brothers Chuck and Bill Williford, sister Lynn Sharrard, son Michael Williford, and nephew John Kendall.
Sharon was a woman of many passions and talents. She found joy in baking, solving puzzles, crocheting blankets, camping with her grandchildren, exploring nature with her husband, gardening, and caring for her flowers. Her positive attitude and infectious smile touched the lives of all who knew her. Sharon’s strength, love, and teachings will forever live on in the hearts of her family.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 2pm at the Drummond Cemetery, followed by a reception at the Drummond Community Center.
    May Sharon Wilma Clute’s memory be a blessing and may her legacy of love and resilience continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

​Patricia A. Walrod, “Pattie,” 77, passed away on April 1. A Celebration of Life will be held June 15 at 2 p.m. at Maxville, V.F.W Post # 8292.
Pattie was born on Feb. 10, 1947, in Lewistown, Mont., to Robert Eugene and Nola Frances Hruska (McLeod). She graduated in 1965 from Moore, Mont., before moving to Billings to attend Business College.
She met and married Charles J. Walrod in 1966. Together, they lived in various places in Montana, finally settling in Anaconda to raise their two children. They were later divorced.
During that season, Pat spent her time working as a bartender in Anaconda, telling jokes and making many friends.  Pattie was particularly proud of serving as the President of the Bartenders Union in Anaconda for a time. She later moved to Philipsburg for work where she met her best friend and life partner Dennis “Denny” Bare. They would go on to settle in Maxville, where she retired. The couple spent 25 years together with friends, gardening and feeding “their birds” along with any other strays that wandered through the yard.
When Denny passed away in 2022, Pattie moved in with her daughter in Great Falls where she met many more friends to share her bartending jokes with.
Pattie was always a kind soul, and even though she didn’t have much she always tried to donate to places like Easter Seals, Shodair, DAV and rescue missions. This generosity will always be remembered.
Pattie was preceded in death by her parents; son, Donald (Donnie) Walrod; and many uncles and aunts.
Survivors include her daughter, DeAnn, and “favorite” son-in-law Derrick (Rick) Morin; two grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; her sister, Carolyn Widdicombe and Jim Banta of Townsend; niece and nephew; great nieces; and Denny’s brother and sisters, three children and family.
To share condolences, please visit www.croxfordfuneralhome.com.

Patricia “Pat” Jean Abbott, 90, of Philipsburg, passed away on April 3. Pat was born on Sept. 2, 1933, to Duane and Mildred Maxson in Bozeman. She was raised in Bozeman, Billings and Butte, and graduated from Butte High School in 1951. She went on to graduate from Montana State College in 1954 with a degree in nursing.
In 1954, Pat married Don Abbott. Don and Pat had three children, Nancy, Kim and Jeff. Pat and Don moved to Philipsburg in 1957 where they raised their family. Pat’s 52+ year nursing career was working in Philipsburg, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula, and Chico, Calif. She loved being a nurse, took pride in her work and was a true caregiver to the core of her being. She worked hard at her profession to be the best she could be and was well respected and loved by all her patients and coworkers.
Pat enjoyed playing bridge, skiing, group ski trips with family and friends, Christmas tree hunts, and social time with friends. Her true passion was being an amazing mom and grandma to her children and grandkids that she loved unconditionally every day of her life. She enjoyed all the family gatherings at her home where she could have everyone under her roof and surrounded by all she loved. Pat kept her heart and home open to everyone who needed a place to stay and an ear to bend and loved it when someone just stopped by to say hi. She was also a devout Christian and enjoyed attending church.
Pat is preceded in death by her mother and father, Duane and Mildred Maxson; stepmother, Bea; and siblings, Beth Martin, Myrell “Bud” Maxson, William “Bill” Maxson and Leslie Maxson.
Pat is survived by her children, Nancy (Mike) Munis, Kim (Paul Alt) Johnson, and Jeff (Kara Cutler) Abbott; grandchildren, Brandon (Jamie) Tracy, Shanna (Cooper) Johnson, Hunter Abbott and Parker Abbott; great-grandchild, Indy Tracy; brother, Donald Maxson (Alice); and sister-in-law, Barbara Abbott; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn., 38105, or to Shriner’s Children by visiting donate.lovetotherescue.org.
A memorial service will be at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 18, at the Granite County Museum, 135 Sansome St., Philipsburg. Livestream will be available on the Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home Facebook page or website under Pat’s personal page.
Please visit longfellowfinneganriddlefuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Pat. ​

Barbara Louise Cooper Bradshaw, 86, born Aug. 25, 1937, in Chandler, Okla., passed away on April 2 in Missoula after a prolonged struggle with her health. She is loved, valued, respected and greatly missed.
A long-time teacher at the Philipsburg, Montana elementary school, Barbara grew up in Oklahoma with her parents, William Taylor Cooper and Margaret Louise Ledsinger, who proceeded her in death, and her two brothers, Billie Lewis Cooper and Joe Ben Cooper.
During World War II, Barbara, along with her mother and brothers, moved to Elmore City, Okla., to live with her grandparents, Thad and Kate Ledsinger. At this time her father was stationed in Little Rock, Ark., where he trained pilots for the military.
Following the war, the Cooper Family moved to Wynnewood, Okla., where Barbara attended elementary and high school, graduating in 1955.
While in school, Barbara was active in numerous extracurricular activities, including playing the tenor saxophone in the band and marching band. Barbara was also an active member of the Wynnewood Baptist Church.
After high school, Barbara attended the Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, Okla., for one year. After transferring to East Central University in Ada, Okla., she graduated with a degree in elementary education and a minor in mathematics.
Wanting to see more of the country and having an adventurous soul, Barbara accepted teaching positions in Jonesville, Mich., and then in Nome, Ala. It was while teaching elementary school in Alaska that she met her future husband, John Allen Bradshaw of Drummond, who was also teaching school in Nome.
In 1962, Barbara and Allen moved to Montana where Barbara accepted a teaching position in Whitefish, and Allen started law school at the University of Montana in Missoula. While living in Whitefish, Barbara was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over the years she accepted numerous church callings and assignments, including teaching and various leadership positions.
Barbara and Allen were married at the Bradshaw family ranch south of Drummond on Dec. 22, 1962. On July 25, 1964 they were sealed in eternal marriage in the Cardston, Alberta Canada Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
After getting married, Barbara taught elementary school in Missoula and Cut Bank, Mont. Barbara finished her career by teaching for 18 years at the elementary school in Philipsburg. During that time, she completed a number of post-graduate classes to enhance her teaching knowledge and skills. Barbara loved teaching and her students. Her favorite grade to teach was the sixth grade. Barbara’s students also loved her, with many staying in contact with her long after they graduated.
Barbara was a loving wife and mother and kept busy raising six kids. During the summer she took the kids on road trips to Canada, Mexico, numerous national parks and her favorite place, Oklahoma.
She planned memorable birthday parties for her kids that featured numerous activities and birthday cakes in the shape of animals. She loved putting together puzzles and playing board games with her family, and spent countless hours playing Skip-Bo with Allen, her kids and her grandkids.
Barbara was an excellent grandmother who was always ready with an invitation to help her pit cherries or shell peas, play a game or solve a puzzle.
Barbara enjoyed numerous activities, such as playing the piano, leading, directing and singing in choirs, teaching classes at church, reading, sewing, quilting, needle work, painting landscapes and making wall hangings. She was an excellent cook and collected recipes wherever she went. She also enjoyed gardening and always had a beautiful garden of her favorite flowers.
Barbara especially loved cats. She took care of many strays over the years, including their medical care. She had a penchant for naming her beloved house cats after characters in her favorite books. Her last three cats were Mrs. Weasley, Snitch and Snape.
After retiring from teaching in Philipsburg, Barbara and Allen moved to the Bradshaw family ranch outside Drummond. Barbara is survived by her husband, Allen, her six children — John Stuart Bradshaw (Kelle), Sheldon Taylor Bradshaw (Corine), Danelle Rae Murphy (Brent), Glenda Alyce Bradshaw, Diena Rochelle Bradshaw and Blaine Cooper Bradshaw (Shondel) — her seventeen grandchildren and her eight great-grandchildren.
Following a graveside service on April 3, Barbara was buried in the family plot at Valley Cemetery in New Chicago. Her family will hold a memorial service celebrating her life in July. ​

Helen Jean Hanifen, 89, went home to be with the Lord, March 20. She was born Dec 10, 1934, to Theodore and Anna Hiltz. Helen met the love of her life, John Micu, and married June 19, 1955, and had three children.
Helen worked as a tech fixing dentures early on but devoted herself to raising her children and being a devoted wife. John preceded her in death. Later she met and married Dan Hanifen, who also preceded her in death.
You would usually find Helen at church every Sunday, where she loved to volunteer at bake sales or any other fundraiser she could help with. Her true passion was art. Helen was very active in the art club. Her paintings were quite amazing and something she truly enjoyed doing. You would see her all over town with her little hand-painted visor.
She had a huge love for animals and always had a dog or cat or two around, choosing her favorites from a shelter. Her larger-than-life smile brought joy to everyone around.
She is survived by her son Mike (Gena) Micu, son Kim Micu and daughter Kitt Micu. Grandchildren Kyla, Chelsie, Austin and Rashelle, and numerous great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers we ask to either make a donation to the art club or an animal shelter in honor of her. A memorial service will be held at a later date. ​

Patricia “Pat” Abbott, 90, of Philipsburg, died April 3.
A memorial service will be held at 2:30 pm. on Thursday, April 18, at the Granite County Museum, 135 S. Sansome St., in Philipsburg.
Memorials in honor of Pat are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to Shriner’s Children by visiting donate.lovetotherescue.org.
Visit longfellowfinneganriddlefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence, to share a memory, or to watch the memorial service over livestream. ​

​On March 23, 2024, Thomas “Tom” George Graham, 40, died at home surrounded by his loved ones from brain cancer.
Tom was born on Feb. 16, 1984, in Missoula. He was the first born son to Ron Graham and Linda (Worden) Graham.
As a child, Tom was always playing cowboys and tagging along with his Grandpa Leo. It was from Grandpa Leo that Tom’s passion for ranching was born. His love for hunting developed over many trips down Christmas Tree Lane with Grandpa George chasing after that big buck. Tom took his job as an older brother seriously, adoring and protecting Carl and Mel at any cost; something he continued to do even into adulthood. Tom was a natural athlete. Running, jumping, playing football and basketball and competing were part of Tom’s everyday routine. A three-sport athlete through high school, Tom held many records and eventually would be a member of the University of Montana Track team. Tom went on to graduate from Montana Western with an education degree in Math. During his time there, Tom fought bulls and became an avid fan of rodeo. He was always finding a Montana rodeo to watch, wearing his best jeans and black cowboy hat.
An avid outdoorsman, Tom knew Granite County better than any map. His drift boat could always be found on Rock Creek and he often bushwhacked off trail. With a strong determination to get to a secret spot or hidden lake, Tom was a natural in the wilderness and delighted in the fact that he was able to live in his beloved Granite County. Tom played hard and worked hard as a member of an award-winning trail crew for the USFS. Many stories and lifelong friendships came from Tom’s work at the Forest Service.
Ranching on Fred Burr Creek and running Black Angus/Charolais Cross cattle was one of Tom’s true passions. Tom’s favorite season was calving, his least favorite haying. Driving down the lane to have a cup of coffee with Marlene and talk news, Tom enjoyed his time being able to carry on his Grandpa Leo’s legacy. It was not lost on anyone that one of Tom’s happy places was at the ranch, doing all those ranch things.
Tom was devoted to his family and fiercely loyal. His parents, wife, children, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and in-laws were of the utmost importance to Tom. He was always willing to drop what he was doing and help in any way he could. Tom really enjoyed going to any family function, reminiscing about good times, and seeing those he loved so much.
A true P-Burger, Tom was proud of growing up and living in Granite County. Coaching high school basketball (especially his sister’s team), and his daughter’s t-ball, Tom was an avid fan and supporter of any Prospector/Titan sporting event. He was invested in his Pburg community and loved the people he grew up with his entire life.
The most important and favorite role in Tom’s life was that of dad. When Tom met and married his wife Jennifer, he proudly took on the role of stepdad to her children Reece and Erik whom he loved as his own. He was able to deliver his daughters Lacie and Hattie Joe, in true rancher fashion, catching them with his two hands. With the birth of his two daughters, his family was complete. Tom was dedicated to protecting his children, teaching them, and giving them tough love when needed. Watching Reece compete, taking Erik hunting, bringing Lacie to the ranch, and napping with Hattie Joe, Tom cherished his children and would do anything at any time for them.
Tom was preceded in death by his grandfather Leo Graham, his grandmother Donna Reisman, grandmother Joan Young, cousin Amanda Foote, four precious babies, and good friend Justin Mason.
Tom is survived by his wife Jennifer (Verlanic), step-children Reece and Erik (Pitcher), daughters Lacie and Hattie Joe, his parents Ron and Linda Graham, brother Carl Graham,sister Melanie MacPherson (Aaron), and nephews Duke Dennison and Leo MacPherson, as well as numerous other family and friends who Tom cared for and loved deeply.
Services for Tom were held March 27 & 28, 2024. He was laid to rest in the Philipsburg Town Cemetery.
Donations in Tom’s name can be made to Pintler Hospice of Anaconda, 118 E. 7th St., Ste. 1A, Anaconda, MT 59711.
The family would like to thank the Philipsburg Community, friends and family; the love and support throughout Tom’s cancer journey was so very much appreciated. A huge thanks to Pintler Hospice and Nurse Lora for caring for Tom compassionately and empathetically. Tom will be greatly missed.
Please visit longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Tom.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Tom and his family.

​Kenneth Paul Beck, 73, passed away March 14 at his home with his family by his side.
Ken was born on March 28, 1950, to Dorothy and Wally Beck. He was born and raised in the Deer Lodge Valley. Ken owned and operated Beck’s OK Tire shop for 27 years before he retired.
Ken enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and going to auctions. He was always looking for a good deal. Ken had a heart of gold and would have given the shirt off his back to anyone, even a stranger.
Ken married the love of his life, Arlene Warren, on July 10, 1970. They had three children Kaylin, Tammy and Kenny.
Ken had a soft spot in his heart for his furry friends and of course his best friend, Art Freeman. Art would come out to the house at least twice a week, visit and help out with whatever needed to be done.
Ken struggled with his illness for nine long years before he found peace. We will miss him dearly.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Wally Beck, and his brother Jack.
Ken is survived by his wife, Arlene; daughters, Kaylin (Russ) Klemann; Tammy Beck (Ken Hosford); and his son, Kenny (Brandi); brother, Ray (Fran) Beck; grandchildren: Colt Klemann, Teegan Shafer, Brady Hosford, Tazra, Tayvor, Ashton, Aushay and Kaiden Beck, Landara and Drake Hosford; along with six great-grandchildren.
To fulfill Ken’s wishes there will be no services.

Leah “Suzee” Janine West-Jacobs, 79, passed away Jan. 31, surrounded by her family.
Suzee was born in Rock Springs, Wyo., on Jan. 8, 1945, to Victor and Fern Delbridge. Her daddy was a gold prospector, so his job took them to several towns. They settled in Lander, Wyo., where she finished school. After high school she met the first love of her life, Frank Roy West, and married Oct. 24, 1968, raised two children, Jeanette and Robby. She was a devoted wife and mother.
She worked as a nurse’s aid and ICU ward clerk at Lander Valley Medical Center. She loved to take care of others. She remained in Lander until Frank passed away June 6, 1986.
At that point she moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to live with family. While living there, she was fortunate to meet the second love of her life, Donald William Jacobs, who she married Feb. 14, 1998. While being married to Donald, she was fortunate to be a homemaker. They built their forever home in Post Falls, Idaho, which she enjoyed designing and decorating frequently. She was very talented and excelled in many hobbies, crafts and trades. There was nothing she couldn’t do. She sewed, quilted, baked, did stained glass and ceramics. She was the best cook you ever met, and she loved to cook.
She lived in Post Falls until Donald passed away after a long battle with cancer on December 15, 2007. She and her sister lived there until moving to Deer Lodge until her beautiful soul left this world.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jeanette and Robert Young; granddaughters, Brittney King and husband, Roy King, and their children, Tucker, Roy, Gavin and Paisley; granddaughter, Brianna West and her children, Daniel and Autumn; grandsons, Christopher West and his wife, Jamie Simmons; and grandson Damion West and his daughter, Aurora; her sisters, Linda Hart and Cynthia Macclanathan and their families.

Betty B. Roe, 90, passed away on Thursday, March 22, 2024. Arrangements were made with Croxford Funeral Home in Great Falls. To share your condolences, please visit www.croxfordfuneralhome.com.

​On the morning of March 11, Lynda “Lynn” Jean Spangberg, 75, passed away in her home in Deer Lodge surrounded by family.
She was born in Deer Lodge on Oct. 15, 1948, to Marvin and Margaret Pierce. She attended schools in Deer Lodge and graduated from Powell County High School in 1967.
Lynn married Larry Spangberg on Jan. 17, 1997. Between the two of them there were six children, 28 grandchildren and 31 1/4 great-grandchildren.
Lynn is survived by her husband, Larry Spangberg; children, Amy Thomas, John Reistad (Terra), Wendy Nelson (Kelly), Wade Reistad, Kari Abramson (Brian) and Chelle Davidson (Ray); 28 grandchildren; and 31 1/4 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Margaret Pierce, and her first great-granddaughter Kaitlyn Reistad.
A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20, at First Presbyterian Church, 500 Milwaukee Ave., Deer Lodge. There will be a luncheon at 1 p.m. following the graveside service.
Please send memorials to any charity of your choosing.

William Philip (Bill) Thomas passed peacefully March 3 in his home surrounded by his children. Bill was born in Butte, Mont., on Feb. 17, 1937, to William Everett and Mayme Irene Thomas. As the oldest of six, he played an important role in helping care for his younger siblings. When Bill was 10 years old, the family joined their grandfather, affectionately called Tata, in Elliston. He said when he and his siblings first entered the Elliston Gulch, they thought they were in heaven. He never outgrew that sentiment.
At 16 years of age, Bill went to work on the Bob Lee Ranch at Snowshoe. He said he decided then and there he would work his way to becoming his own boss, and an entrepreneur was born.
In 1955, Bill and his brother Bob joined the Army and were soon on their way to California. He was stationed at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro. His brother Bob told him about a blond he saw wearing a cute hat at church, and the following Sunday, Bill was introducing himself to his California babe. Sparks flew and on Feb. 1, 1958, Marilyn Riley and Bill Thomas were married in Redondo Beach.
Bill bribed Marilyn away from her beloved ocean by promising her a black horse if she would move to Montana. And so began their adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
They grew their family with the arrival of three daughters, Colleen in 1959, Laura in 1960 and Lynn in 1961. Their son, William Riley (Billy) was born in 1966.
Dad worked at the Luke Mine and for several area ranchers. In 1961, he was accepted to farrier school in California. The family packed up and moved to the sunny south. Dad shod horses for several of the local racehorse ranches in California but his Mamatana, as he called his home state, was whistling him north, and he answered the call.
Dad was a jack of all trades, working hard and finding ways to prosper. Besides shoeing horses in the summer and mining in the winter, he worked for the railroad and county road department, and built houses in Helena with his brothers. Always very independent and wanting to be his own boss, Bill owned several businesses over the years including a small sawmill and a trailer court. He and Mom owned the Elliston Store for 25 years. He added a laundromat and built the Elliston Post Office nearby. His last career adventure was realty school and selling local property, which was fitting since he bought and sold land in and around Elliston throughout the years.
Dad was the go-to guy and a blessing to the community. He gave from the heart, helping anyone who came to him whether for a loan, a handout, information or advice. As a pillar of the community for many years, his generous spirit will be remembered by many. He also led 4H, served on the school board and was a volunteer fireman and fire chief. History was a passion for dad, and he loved to read, mostly of the early days in Montana. He and mom wrote a history book, Elliston Days Gone By. He was a lifelong Catholic and a member of St. Theodore Mission Church in Avon.
Dad was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn last April; his parents; his brothers Bob, Barney and Bruce; brother-in-law Jim; and sister-in-law Sherry; five grandchildren, Sammy Jo, Isaac, Benjamin, Jory and Maria.
He is survived by his children: Colleen & John Quigley, Laura and Steve Marks, Lynn and John Price, and Billy and Missi Thomas; his little sisters Sue and Sally; sister-in law Cheryl; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Larry Riley and Margie Minogue. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and a great-great granddaughter.
Memorials in Bill’s name can be made to the Elliston Fire Department, PO Box 65, Elliston, MT 59728; or Elliston EMS, PO Box 5, Elliston, MT 59728.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 605 Clark St., in Deer Lodge. Burial will follow at the Elliston Cemetery with a reception in the Elliston Gym.

​Susan “Sue” Marie Whitney, 75, passed away on Feb. 24, at her home, surrounded by her family.
Susan was born Nov. 20, 1948, in Missoula, Mont., to Tracey E. and Wanda West Dawson. Her father’s employment took the family to several towns, and they settled in Deer Lodge in 1960. Susan attended school at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Powell County High School, graduating in 1966.
Susan married William L. Whitney on May 25, 1973, in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. Sue and Bill fostered 67 children over 29 years. She was the administrator at Renaissance Assisted Living Home, retiring in August of 2018.
Sue is survived by her husband, William L. Whitney; daughters, Casi Harris (Scott), Sherry Whitney (Joe), and Krissy O’Hare (Kevin); son, Cody Murray; grandchildren, Korri Jo, Kordell, Maygen, Natalie, Jackson, Brecken and Sylvia; great-grandchildren, Aspen, Kazen and Karter; sister-in-law, Sue Dawson; niece, Kelly Leaver; and nephews, Tracey Dawson and Trace Dawson.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Traci Stevens; brother, Charles Dawson; stepfather, Clifford Perkins; and grandson, Aden Whitney.
A potluck gathering for Sue was held at St. James Episcopal Church Parish Hall in Deer Lodge on Thursday, Feb. 29.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the St. James Cancer Center, 400 S. Clark St., Butte, MT 59701.
Please visit longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Sue.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Sue and her family.

​Charles “Charlie” Douglas Bauman, 91, transitioned to Heaven peacefully at home Feb. 19, surrounded by the love of his family.
Charles was born at home in the town of Deer Lodge, Powell County, Mont., on Jan. 24, 1933, with his maternal grandmother Margaret Beck Jensen as the midwife. He was the third son of R.M. (Slim) and Elsie (Jensen) Bauman. Charles’ life came full circle as he passed away in the home he built on the same property of his birth.
Charles’ legacy will long be remembered for his love of God, honesty, as well as his kindness and extreme generosity to family, neighbors and everyone he came in contact with. He took time to help and pray with those who needed it, talked with everyone - often bringing strangers home for dinner.
Growing up in Deer Lodge, Powell County, Charles developed a love of nature, wildlife and the mountains, which continued throughout his life. He was an avid hiker, hunter and fisherman, especially enjoying ice fishing with his son, Bob. They visited elderly couples and widows delivering fresh fish, deer or elk meat and garden bounty throughout the year.
As a teenager, he felt called to become a minister, and following graduation from Powell County High School (1950) attended Northwest Bible College in Kirkland, Wash.; Central Bible Institute in Springfield, Mo.; and later with a family, attended University of Montana and returned to Northwest Bible College, earning Bachelor’s degrees in Theology and Arts. Charles loved and played basketball in high school and college, and was a member of various Missions groups, band (Clarinet), singing, Thespians and Class President (Central Bible College).
In the summer of 1956 at Glacier Bible Camp in Hungry Horse, Mont., Charles met the love of his life, Karen Hollo. He invited Karen for a snack and walk by the river and prayed that night, “ Lord, if I still feel this way in the morning, this is the girl for me.”
He married Karen 11 months later and was married 66 years.
In his teens and college summers, Charles worked at the Toggery men’s fine clothing store in Deer Lodge and a lab at the Anaconda Copper Company. Other special college jobs included a summer in Alaska (fish cannery) and as a Bell Hop at a ritzy hotel in Springfield, with $100 tips! Later, while a full-time student at Northwest Bible College, he worked full time at Boeing, earning a Certificate of Merit for his constructive suggestions. Many Saturdays found Charles with the children practicing Greek words or learning to ride bicycles and swim.
Charles became an Ordained Minister for the Assemblies of God in 1954 and pastored several churches in Montana: Lewistown, Roundup, Baker, Ovando and later in Marblemount, Wash., after returning to Northwest Bible College. Karen was often the church pianist or organist. For 40 years, Charles and Karen held Sunday services for residents in the Deer Lodge Colonial Manor Nursing Home.
In March 1970 upon the passing of his father, Charles returned to Deer Lodge to take over his father’s businesses: Conoco bulk plant delivering gas and oil to ranchers, farmers, the mines and gas stations as well as driving a school bus until summer. Charles then worked for the Montana State Highway Department Deer Lodge division for 23 years, retiring as foreman in 1993.
Days after retiring, Charles hiked Patrol Mountain near the Bob Marshall Wilderness to be a fire lookout for the summer. This was a dream and highlight of his life, especially as he took up photography. His photographs from Patrol Mountain, Bob Marshall Wilderness and Deer Lodge Valley can be found around the community, purchased by travelers and local residents, and displayed at Deer Lodge Medical Center.
Charles’ love of the outdoors was evident throughout his life: Ice and fly fishing, hunting, watching deer and elk in the wild, hiking, backpacking, camping, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, photography, gardening (especially his raspberries and tomatoes), biking and sports. He also loved to sing, especially when Karen accompanied him on the organ, piano or accordion. He sang gospel duets with his wife and trio together with his brothers in church, Glacier Bible Camp and special events. Often the brothers were asked to repeat their performances several times.
Charles showed a deep love for his family, including Karen and the children in all activities. He was always home for dinner; encouraging, praying for and supporting his family and anyone he came in contact with. When not in school, one or more of the children accompanied him on errands, delivering oil/gas or checking highways. Those times included stops for treats, especially Forbes grocery in Avon (his favorite - peanuts or ice cream). He adored the grandchildren; teaching them to ride bikes, wrapping his arms around them, endless hours in the garden - especially picking raspberries and eating fresh carrots.
Charles is survived by his wife, Karen Bauman, of Deer Lodge; son, Robert Bauman, of Deer Lodge; daughters, Diane Bauman Kamson of Seattle, Elaine Bauman of Everett, Wash., Joan Bauman of Palm City, Fla. He has five grandchildren: Morayo Kamson of Austin, Texas; Jacob, Lauryn, Elyse and Lily Klostreich of Palm City; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, R.M. (Slim) and Elsie Bauman; brother, Eugene Bauman, brother, Harold Bauman; and son-in-law Solomon Kamson.
Charles’ Celebration of Life service will be held at noon, Saturday, March 9, at the Deer Lodge Assembly of God Church, 601 5th St., Deer Lodge. Following the celebration will be a graveside service at Hillcrest Cemetery, 343 Conley Lake Road, Deer Lodge. A luncheon will follow at the Deer Lodge Assembly of God Church.
Memorial Donations may be made to the Powell County Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, 100 Missouri Ave., Deer Lodge, MT 59722.
Please visit longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Charles. Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Charles and his family.

It turns out even the lives of those who are larger than life must come to an end. Former NFL linebacker, Montana Football Hall of Famer, Grizzly great and retired high school principal John S. (Steve) Okoniewski died Sunday, Feb. 25, at his home in Green Bay, Wis. Steve was born Aug. 22, 1949, in Bremerton, Wash., and had an active childhood, playing sports and exploring the Pacific Northwest wilderness. Time in nature and athletics would persist as prevailing themes his whole life.
Steve’s toughness and strength attracted the attention of colleges. He started college on a football scholarship at the University of Washington, where a knee injury abruptly ended his playing days. He enrolled at Everett Community College, where he joined the team there, and earned the title of All American both offensively and defensively.
Steve soon transferred to the University of Montana, where the state’s incomparable nature and down-to-earth people instantly and profoundly resonated with him.
“The best move I ever made in my life [was] when I moved from the Seattle area to Missoula, Montana,” Steve said in 2020. “If it wasn’t for that move, it’s hard to say what my life would’ve been. It’s the ultimate best decision I ever made in my life.”
Steve played under Coach Jack Elway as an offensive lineman at the University of Montana and twice earned the title of All American. Steve would later be inducted into the University of Montana Hall of Fame in 2009 and the State of Montana’s Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
Selected as pick No. 42 in the second round of the NFL draft, Steve was the highest draft pick ever to come from the University of Montana. A six-year NFL career followed, bringing Steve to the Buffalo Bills and St. Louis Cardinals. This career also introduced him to Green Bay, Wis., where he played from 1974 - 1976. “He’s not blessed with the most physical talent, but there’s not a harder worker,” then-Coach Bart Starr of the Green Bay Packers said of Steve. “You’d like to be able to transplant his heart into some people.”
After hanging up his own football jersey, Steve found a way to channel his love for the game while giving back: coaching. Steve began a second career in high school education in Deer Lodge and soon discovered a passion for connecting with youth through the sport. Among his proudest accomplishments was leading the Deer Lodge Wardens to playoffs in 1979 after he inherited the team with a 0-8 record.
He also coached in Wibaux, Mont., at a school with 55 boys - 53 of whom went out for the Wibaux Longhorns football team. Steve would continue to maintain contact with the players and people of Deer Lodge and Wibaux for the rest of his life.
Besides coaching, Steve’s leadership skills were seen in his second career as a high school principal. He received his Master’s in Education Curriculum and Supervision from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and worked as high school principal in Wibaux and St. Francis, Wis., before finding a home at Luxemburg-Casco High School in Luxemburg, Wis. Steve was a fixture at LCHS, serving there for 25 years, while also volunteering as assistant coach to the Luxemburg-Casco Spartans football team.
Steve’s grit and determination made him larger than life, and were on display for all to see with his trademark arthritis-mangled fingers and disfigured ankle joints. He was renowned as an early advocate of a high fiber diet, a fervent proponent of dental hygiene and daily flossing, and as an unerring champion of his NFL losers’ pool. Steve kept himself young, spending lots of time outdoors, running and/or cycling daily. He completed five marathons, his best under three hours. He spent the Wisconsin winters cross-country skiing and each year looked forward to the 50 km Birkebeiner in Hayward, Wis., (completing the race 19 times).
During the summers Steve made annual pilgrimages Out West, swimming off the rocky beaches of the Puget Sound where he grew up and trout fishing his beloved Montana rivers (especially the Little Blackfoot). As the years passed, his appreciation for the state never wavered.
“Montana is the absolute best,” Steve told Skyline Sports. “I knew Montana before Montana was discovered ... The beauty of that state, the people, I have such a love for the state of Montana.”
Among Steve’s many talents was an uncanny, encyclopedic ability to navigate the US highway and freeway system from memory and without GPS. Among Steve’s many dogmas was a categorical refusal to fly. This resulted in many cross-country drives a year for Steve (and often his loved ones). Although often known as the life of the party or as having a public presence as a school leader, these drives gave Steve moments in solitude to reflect and reconnect with the vast nature around him. They also had many pit stops so he could engage in his preferred form of meditation: fishing. It is believed that a cut while fishing in Western Montana led to the sepsis that Steve battled during his final months with his signature stalwart style.
Steve is survived by his long-term partner, Nancy Frank, of Green Bay; his brother, Michael Okoniewski, of Woodland, Wash.; his daughter and son-in-law, Wendy and Shawn Tedford, of Silverdale, Wash.; his daughter, Ivy Okoniewski, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; his daughter, Maggie Okoniewski, of Denver; and granddaughters, Clara and Ellie Tedford, of Silverdale.
A memorial to honor his many achievements and passion for life will be held Saturday, April 6, at Vandervest Harley Davidson of Green Bay. Additional gatherings will occur over the summer in Montana and Kitsap County, Wash. Please contact [email protected] for any details or if you have photos or videos you would like to share.

​Harold James LaTray, age 90, gained his wings on Feb. 21 in Deer Lodge. He was born in Fort Belknap, Mont., on Oct. 4, 1933, to William and Jenny Gardipee LaTray.
Harold joined the US Army at the age of 21 and received his honorable discharge in 1957. He was an underground miner for Cominco American until his retirement in 1993.
Harold enjoyed anything to do with sports, including coaching his own kids on a softball team and taking his dogs, Dino and Trapper on rides. Harold’s family was his life.
Harold was a proud member of the American Legion and represented over 200 funerals. He was your infamous bugle player.
Harold and Pat were married on Sept. 15, 1956, and of this 47-year union had seven children: Sheila, Lila, Sandy, Harold (Butch) Dale, Jimmy and Jennifer.
Harold is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughters, Sheila (Larry) Zachary, Lila Roberts, Jennifer LaTray; sons, Harold (Butch), Dale (Debbie) and Jimmy.
Harold was preceded in death by wife Pat; daughter, Sandy; son-in-law, Donald; daughter-in-law, Wanda; great-grandson, Dalton Conat; and grandson; Derek; and all 12 of his siblings.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, at the First Baptist Church in Deer Lodge, 127 Sam Beck Road.
Graveside services will follow immediately at Hillcrest Cemetery with a luncheon to follow back at the Baptist Church.

​Walter Joseph (Joey) Dillon passed away Feb. 1, 2024, in Deer Lodge, after a brief but hard-fought battle with cancer. Joey was born Oct. 4, 1957, in Great Falls, Mont., at Malmstrom Air Force Base to Joseph and Shirley (Cooper) Dillon. He was later joined by two siblings, Marsha and Patrick (PJ).
As a young boy, Joey’s father’s military career moved the family to Tucson, Ariz., where they lived for many years. While in Tucson, Joey excelled at football and baseball, and played baseball on the All-City All-Star League for three years – he was scouted by the pros at that time.
In his work life, Joey was a jack of all trades; there wasn’t a task or job that he couldn’t or wouldn’t do.
Joey was most proud of his job as a seismographer and often shared stories related to those adventures; he most recently worked at the Broken Arrow and Corner Bar in Deer Lodge. Joey worked hard and played hard, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He had many friends from many walks of life and will truly be missed by all.
Joey was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Shirley Dillon, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He is survived by his son, Joe Dillon (Angela), and grandchildren Cy, Pyrrha, Attis and Helah J.; sister Marsha Dillon; brother PJ Dillon (Janel); nieces Katy, Jennifer (Adam) and Jessica Carter (Clay); nephews Josh and Brad; as well as many cousins and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Corner Bar, 402 Main Street. Lunch will be provided by the Broken Arrow and the Corner Bar.

On the evening of Jan. 16, Anne (Annabelle) Friend Bogut, 82, was sent to Heaven. She passed away peacefully at her home with her dog, Daisy, by her side and her son, Jon, close by.
Anne was born in Butte on June 24, 1941, the only daughter of Jeannette Rankin Poston and George Kneuper Friend.
The family lived in Morel, Mont., and Anne attended Anaconda schools through the eighth grade. They then moved to Deer Lodge where Anne went to high school. She graduated from Powell County High School in 1959. After high school Anne attended Western Montana College. During this time she met David Robert Bogut, and they were married on July 15, 1962. They had two sons, David and Jon. On June 5, 1967, both Anne and her mother, Jeannette, graduated from Western Montana College with bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education. Anne taught school in Garrison, Gold Creek and Deer Lodge, and she retired from teaching in July of 1999.
Anne loved to travel with her friends and family. She was involved in many organizations, including Eastern Star, Delta Kappa Gamma and Daughters of the Nile. She also volunteered for many events, loved to read and enjoyed playing cards. And despite being retired, Anne still enjoyed substitute teaching very much.
She is survived by her sons, David (Jennifer) Bogut of Moscow, Idaho, and Jon Bogut of Deer Lodge. She leaves behind two grandchildren, Elise and Iain, both of Moscow, as well as many loving family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Anne will be put to rest with her parents at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge. Eastern Star services will be held at the gravesite, and there will be a luncheon for friends and family, both at a later date. Donations may be made in Anne’s name to the donor’s charity of choice.
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A woman who walks in purpose doesn’t have to chase people or opportunities...
Her light causes people and opportunities to pursue her!

Joe was born in Anaconda and brought home to the Deer Lodge Valley by his parents Glenn and Dorthy Launderville. He spent his days on the family ranch doing Cowboy shit, with his sisters Patricia and Sandy. He was active in 4-H and FFA and graduated from Powell County High School. He loved the valley where he resided and spent his entire life.
He married a Deer Lodge Valley girl, Marlene Strickland in 1960, and together they raised four daughters. Joe was a man of many talents, but being a rancher was where his heart was. He raised cattle, sheep, horses and a short stint with pigs, hay and potatoes. He was a successful brand inspector for many years and was recognized for his dedication with the award of Brand Inspector of the Year.
Rodeo was his passion, as evidenced by the hours he spent either producing, planning for or watching a rodeo. In raising his kids he was a 4-H leader, started the Racetrack Rodeo Club, was a founding member in the Montana Junior Rodeo Association and was President of the Montana State High School Rodeo Association for many years. He was instrumental in getting the National High School Rodeo finals to Helena. Joe started team roping in local jackpots and was a member of the Big 5 Rodeo Association. He spent many summers hauling his daughters throughout Montana to junior and high school rodeos, where he met many lifelong friends. His greatest joy was being able to watch his kids and grandkids in all their endeavors. We spent the last two days before he passed watching Fort Worth, and his eyes lit up when a Montana kid made a good ride.
Joe met Teresa in 1991 and they married in 1997, gaining a daughter and later two more grandsons. They enjoyed going to rodeos and going on their yearly Valentine’s Day trip to Jackson Hole to watch Paul Greaney compete in the chariot races. They spent many weekends at the cabin, one of their favorite getaways, cooking with the Dutch oven. They traveled around visiting family and chasing the grandkids from one event to another. They enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and enjoyed their time together.
He was a champion for all kids, often having extra kids either on rodeo trips or helping out at the ranch. After Joe “retired” from high school rodeo, he found much success traveling the state competing in pulling competitions with his team of Belgians; Pat and Mike.
Joe never knew a stranger and would run into someone he knew wherever he went. His eyes always had a twinkle, and usually a “fun” comment to everyone he saw. The friendships he made during his time were enduring, except when it came to the water fights. There was no way he was getting wet! Many wrecked pick-ups were testament to that.
Survivors include wife Teresa, daughters Jonelle (Jay Kyle), Tawni (Stan), Patti (Poncho), Darci (Jerry), stepdaughter Tammy (Jerry). Grandkids: Houston (Rosette), Jessee, Jansyn, Bridger, Baylee, Halli, Cameron, Roy and Parker. Sister Sandy, and several nieces and nephews. Brothers in law, Randy and Ronnie; sisters in law, Janice, Karen and Pam.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Glenn and Dorthy, sister Pat, brothers in law Rip, Gary, and Rod, sister in law Virginia along with many cousins and lifelong friends.
Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m., Feb. 7 at The Elks Lodge in Deer Lodge.
Memorials can be made to Montana High School Rodeo Association to 901 Kentucky St., Deer Lodge, MT 59722 or Draft Horse Expo in Deer Lodge, P.O. Box 23 Deer Lodge, MT 59722.