Renée Lynn Knievel-Slaughter
On Sept. 26, our beloved Renée passed peacefully in the morning surrounded by the love of her family.
Renée was born in Richmond, California, on May 29, 1951. In 1957, she moved to Butte with her parents and sisters to be closer to her grandparents and brothers.
She led an active life growing up, including being nominated as president of her class, serving as editor of the Butte High School Mountaineer and being a member of the singing group Top 16, which performed at the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
After moving to Bozeman, Renée met her husband, former Gallatin County Sheriff and Head of Corrections for the State of Montana, Bill Slaughter, and had her son, Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter.
Renée excelled at so many things professionally — being a small business owner and entrepreneur (opened two restaurants, a gift shop and a salon), radio sales, waiting tables and bartending. She had a passion for the service industry — cooking, baking, and making everyone feel welcome.
Renée was a treasured wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She was determined, hard-working and had a vivacious laugh, along with an extremely generous heart and spirit. Her home was always open to family, friends or someone with nowhere to go. She adored time with her family — reminiscing and laughing; taking care of their pets; and their ranch in Hall, Montana.
She will be greatly missed by her husband Bill; her son Jesse; daughter-in-law Christie; her grandchildren Jacob, Annie and Sammie Jo; her mother Jeanne Knievel; her sisters Kristy Knievel-Lawrence (married to Hugh Lawrence) and Robin Knievel-Dick (married to John Dick); her sisters-in-law Rusty Knievel, Linda Knievel and Jo Lee Scheidecker (married to Gary Scheidecker); her nieces and nephews; all the members of her extended family; and friends.
Renée was predeceased by her grandparents Roy and Clara Buis, Alice Buis, and Ignatius and Emma Knievel; her father Robert Knievel; her in-laws Glen and Jo Slaughter; and her brothers Robert and Nick Knievel.
A family celebration of her life will be held Sunday, Oct. 17.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the following charities may be made in her memory: Granite County Spay/Neuter Project (contact Audrey Zahn at (406) 559-7501); or Toby’s House Crisis Nursery at 421 5th Street N, Great Falls, MT 59403 and (406) 770-3191.

Emma Pauline Benson
Emma Pauline Benson was born July 2, 1937, in Missoula, Montana, to Sam and Ella Bignell. She died at home on Sept. 29, 2021, surrounded by family and friends.
Pauline graduated from Powell County High School in Deer Lodge in 1955. She stayed in Deer Lodge while attending high school, returning home to Helmville on the weekends — quite an adventure for a gal from a small town. She was FFA Queen in 1955.
After high school, Pauline attended business college for a year in Missoula and she worked for Vocational Rehabilitation in Helena.
On Sept. 20, 1958, she married Bruce Benson at St. Thomas Catholic church in Helmville. Pauline met Bruce while roller skating in Ovando with her older brother Sam. 
In 1960, Pauline started a Birthday Club in Avon, which is still going today. 
Pauline was known for raking hay with a team of horses. She did this for many years while raising her girls, and she also cooked for the hay crew.
Pauline had many interests: From being a good shot with a .22, taking care of her share of the gopher and woodchuck population, to playing pinochle with the ladies. She enjoyed traveling: taking a pilgrimage and seeing seven countries, a cruise on the Columbia River, and to the San Juan Islands. She also enjoyed celebrating holidays, often hosting get-togethers with family and friends. 
She was a devoted member of the St. Theodore Catholic church in Avon. Pauline had a wonderful sense of humor. 
Pauline is survived by her husband of 63 years, Bruce Benson, as well as her daughters Ev Benson and Val Benson of Avon; grandchildren Sarah Parks, Laurel, Beth (Noah) Carpenter and Leigh Parks (Kevin Boucher fiancée) of Billings; sisters-in-law Lou (Bignell) Tavenner, Avon and Eva Browning of Great Falls; and Georgia Bignell of Helmville. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and many good friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Sam and Gerald Bignell; her sister and brother-in-law Betty Lou and Gerald Fleming; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Fred and Dot Benson, Cliff and Doris Benson, and Betty and Jim Monroe; and brother-in-law Telford Browning.
The family would like to thank the Avon Ambulance QRU for their repeated care and support of Pauline these past few months. Memorials may be sent to Avon Ambulance QRU or the Avon Cemetery Association.
A viewing is set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Deer Lodge, followed by a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be held at the Avon Cemetery followed by a reception at the Avon Clubhouse.
Pall bearers are Tim Quinn, Sean Logan, Bruce Kleinschmidt, Leo Fleming, Jerry Fleming and Larry Fleming. Honorary pall bearers are Jim Quigley, Jeff Janke, and Dan and Josh Senecal. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Pauline. 

​Loy Marie Hart
Loy Marie Hart, age 78, of Deer Lodge, Montana passed away on Sept. 24, 2021, at home in the comfort of her loving husband. She is now with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She died from complications of Huntington’s disease.
Loy was born on Aug. 5, 1943, in Boise, Idaho, to Lloyd and Vera (Hack) McClanahan. Her parents were of Cut Bank, Montana, and this is where Loy spent much of her life. Loy graduated from Cut Bank High School where she was a varsity cheer leader. She went on to graduate from Kinman Business College in Spokane, Washington. She started her career as a dental assistant and then progressed to dental office manager for several dentists in Montana and Idaho. She spent the last 20 years of her professional career as a supervisor at the DMV in Deer Lodge.
Loy had two children, Wade and Wendy, from her first marriage. When she was in her early 40s, she reconnected with an old friend, Larry Hart, and they were married within four months.
Her favorite pastimes included snowmobiles, motorcycles, hot rods and corvettes. She even rode her own Harleys. Loy was a member of the Frontier Bible of Gold Creek. She enjoyed these pastimes with Larry by her side. 
Loy is preceded in death by her parents and a baby sibling. She is survived by her loving husband, Larry; her children Wade Berkram and Wendy Woolstenhulme; Larry’s daughter Heather Lansky; several grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a twin sister, two more sisters and several nieces and nephews.
No services are planned. She will be laid to rest in Cut Bank at Crown Hill Cemetery at a later date. Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Loy.

​Stuart Harold Noble
Stuart Harold Noble passed away on July 7, 2021, surrounded by family and friends in his home in Deer Lodge, Montana, after a yearlong battle with cancer.
Stu was born March 6, 1960, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and spent his early childhood in the Sudan and his school years in Ethiopia where his parents were Presbyterian missionaries. Stu joined the Navy in 1979 and was stationed on ballistic missile submarines and deep submergence vehicles. He left the military in 1994 and briefly managed video stores in southern California and Deer Lodge until 2002, when he started his own long-haul trucking business with a close friend.
Throughout his life, Stu’s passion and hobby was flying. In 2016, he turned to it full time, becoming a flight instructor and then a commercial pilot. Stu was always the “fun uncle” and enjoyed spending time with and entertaining family and friends. He was always up for an adventure and showed unwavering loyalty and generosity to those he loved.
He will be buried in a family plot in New Concord, Ohio, alongside his parents Glenn and Irene (Adams) Noble, of Waverly, Ohio. Stu is survived by his sister Nancy (Noble) Hamilton of Durham, North Carolina; and nephew Wesley Hamilton and niece Nina Hamilton, both of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

​Ryan Brown
Ryan Brown, 41, of Gold Creek, Montana, died on Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, at his residence in Gold Creek. Services are pending. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

William “Rick” Gow
William “Rick” Gow passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sept. 19, 2021, into the arms of his savior Jesus Christ.
He was born on Jan. 19, 1950, to Robert and Betty (Weber) Gow in Missoula, Montana. He joined brothers Jerry and Jim, and sister Betty Jo, and later welcomed brother George. He married Peggy Wohlers on Sept. 22, 1978, and they would have celebrated 43 years together this year. They were blessed with two daughters, Becky and Jessie. Rick loved his family dearly, and his daughters were his pride and joy. His eyes would light up whenever they were around, and he was so proud of their accomplishments.
Rick grew up in Bonner, Montana, attending Bonner Grade School and Missoula’s Sentinel High School. He graduated as a medical technician from the Medical Institute of Minnesota and was certified as a clinical laboratory scientist by the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel in 1976. He was also a radiologic technologist.
Rick and Peggy made their home in Deer Lodge, Montana, where he worked at Powell County Memorial Hospital, the Deer Lodge Clinic, and also was an EMT. Rick went on to work at the White Sulphur Springs hospital and finished his career at St. Peter’s Health hospital in Helena, Montana. Rick was a dedicated and loyal servant in the health care field. He never missed a day of work, even when MacDonald Pass was closed to everyone but him.
All who knew Rick knew him as a kind and generous man, and a loyal friend. He was welcoming to everyone, going out of his way to make sure people felt cared for. He loved hunting and fishing (ice fishing and paddlefishing), especially with his nephews and good friends Stan Smith, Al Lowery, Gerald Cavanagh, Jimmy Magone and Fred Kuchinski — plus anyone else who wanted to go. He enjoyed watching football and baseball. Rick loved spending time with his grandsons Kaden and Ashton, especially playing chess and panning for sapphires with them. He took up gardening after he retired and, true to his nature, loved sharing produce with family and friends. Rick’s quiet and gentle presence will be missed by many.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Jerry, Jim, and George; his nephews Donnie Hummer and Harold Gow; his brothers-in-law Joe Wohlers and Donald Wohlers; and several aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his wife Peggy; his daughters Becky (Dominic) Denty and Jessie (Chris Weisenfels); his grandsons Kaden and Ashton Denty; his sister Betty Jo (Jack) Hummer; his sisters-in-law Jan (Dave) Bluford and Sandy (Jack) Gehring; several nephews, nieces and cousins; and his dog Bella.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. at Christ Fellowship Church, 306 Montana Ave., Deer Lodge, Montana; a reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. Please dress casually. Face masks are optional. Memorials can be made to Christ Fellowship Church, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (5705 Grant Creek Rd., Missoula, MT 59808), or donor’s choice.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Rick.

Shirley Mae Weaver
Shirley Mae Weaver (Mom/Grandma) was born Shirley Marsh, to Lawrence and Mary Marsh on November 28, 1928, in Sutton, Nebraska. Shirley was the oldest of five children. She passed away on Sept. 8, 2021.
Shirley was known by most as mom or grandma, and her house was always the gathering place, whether for family or any holiday, or for her kids’ and grandkids’ friends any time. Her love for crafts was only surpassed by her love for baking.
Whether you received a hand-knitted Christmas stocking, one of her many different homemade Christmas ornaments or got a special-baked birthday cake, Shirley was always busy creating something new with love. Anytime you entered her house, you were welcomed with the smell of fresh baked cookies, cakes and pies.
Shirley’s other passion was Eastern Star. Shirley was active in both the Floral Chapter #46 in Deer Lodge, Montana, and the Clover Chapter #33 in Rathdrum, Idaho. In 1982, Shirley became the Worthy Grand Matron of the Clover Chapter. Even after her husband passed, Shirley remained an active member until she could no longer physically participate.
Shirley is survived by her three sons Morris Thompson Elmose (Tom), Lawrence David Elmose (Larry) and Alex Harvey Weaver, Jr.; as well as eight grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at Evergreen Cemetery in Post Falls, Idaho, where Shirley will be laid to rest next to her husband, Alex Harvey Weaver Sr.
Please visit Shirley’s memorial and sign her online guestbook www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

Jimmy “Jim” Ray Anderson
Jimmy “Jim” Ray Anderson, 75, of Deer Lodge, Montana, was called to his heavenly home on Sept. 11, 2021. Although we mourn the loss of him here on earth, we have abiding peace knowing he is with our Lord and Savior.
Jim was born to Harold and Opal Anderson on June 15, 1946, in Sioux City, Iowa. After graduating high school from Spring Branch in Katy, Texas, and attending one year at Stephen F. Austin, he chased his dream of the big outdoors and moved to Missoula, Montana, where he studied wildlife biology at the University of Montana. He continued his education by getting his teaching credentials and a master’s in education. Jim met and married the love of his life, Edee, while attending UM. Jim arrived in Deer Lodge, Montana, when he accepted a teaching position in 1971.
Jim was an active member of the Deer Lodge community for over 50 years. He taught Science at E.F. DuVall Jr. High School for 29 years, coaching junior high basketball, football, wrestling and track for many of those years. Some of Jim’s coaching highlights included coaching the Lady Warden junior varsity basketball team and the early years of junior high football. He was always excited for the football season to start in the fall. His love and commitment to coaching would often lead him to icing a sore knee or shoulder from pushing himself to keep up with his young athletes.
Jim also showed devotion to the community by serving on the city council from 1990 to 2000 and serving one term as president at St. John Lutheran Church and president of the Thrivent Chapter. He served our country in the National Guard for 10 years and spent 10 years in the Reserves. He also was an active member and officer of the Montana Trappers Association.
Jim had a huge love for hunting, fishing, trapping and golfing. You would often find him out early on the golf course, trimming or watering trees before getting his 18 holes in. If he wasn’t on the golf course, he would be tending to his yard, trapping a rancher’s pesky beaver or having a beer with his best friend Bud while planning his next big hunting adventure.
Jim was someone who always had to keep himself busy. He was never one who would sit in one place for very long time. Even after he retired as a schoolteacher, he kept himself busy by taking a teaching job at a state facility, substitute teaching when needed, becoming a real estate agent and traveling throughout the country to visit his five kids and four grandkids. Whenever he went to visit family there was always the conversation of, “Ok, what jobs do we have to keep Dad busy while he’s here?” He was always willing to help with whatever tasks were planned for him.
Christian faith and devotion to Jesus Christ was a paramount part of his Jim’s life. He made it clear that death was not only about him, but it is about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He wanted two words to be remembered in his passing: “Joy” and “Celebration.” He did not want there to be tears of sadness but more tears of happiness because we would be celebrating his life with Jesus. The highlight of Jim’s week during his last few years at home was attending Bible study with the Deer Lodge Men’s Bible Study group on Wednesday mornings.
Jim is survived by his wife Edee Anderson; his brother Tom Anderson; his children Sarah (Chip Hedrick), Cynthia (Sam Morehouse), Josh (Carrie Anderson), Danita (Cort Roseleip) and Mariah (Kyle Surratt); grandchildren Emry, Raef, Josie and Arlo; and honorary family member Ostin Warren. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Opal Anderson; and his twin sister Judy.
We would like to give a huge thank you to the community of Deer Lodge for taking extra time to help Jim and Edee during his long battle with Lewy body dementia. We truly could not have done it without your care and support. We would especially like to thank St. John Lutheran Church and the Deer Lodge Men’s Bible Study group; Jerry Roseleip for the countless hours he spent helping, taking Jim places, and visiting with Jim; and Mary Newman who helped with his home care.
Jim’s memorial service will be held at St. John Lutheran Church. Jim requested that his family have a BIG party to celebrate his trip home to reside with his savior Jesus Christ. Details on both will be forthcoming. Donations in memory of Jim can be given to St. John Lutheran Church, the Montana Trappers Association or Gift of Hope-Human Brain and Spinal Fluid Resource Center.

Dale Lee Filcher
We lost the head of our family, Dale Lee Filcher, on Aug. 28, 2021.
He was born and raised in Stevensville, Montana, with five brothers and two younger sisters.
After graduating high school, Dale joined the Army for one term. He married Betty J. Filcher in 1960 and they had one son, Mike Filcher.
Dale worked as a signal maintainer for 40 years until he retired and then he settled in Deer Lodge with his son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren.
Plans for a service will be in the future sometime. Dale will be missed by all. Condolences may be paid at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

​Ruth Ann Fortner
Ruth Ann Fortner, a long-time resident of Anaconda, Montana, passed away on June 13, 2021, at the age of 73.
Ruth is survived by her children: Dennis Fortner and his wife Christina; Wendy Uden and her husband John. 
She is survived by her grandchildren Nichole Brustad and Ashley Sabot; her great grandchildren Logan and Emerson Brustad; and brothers Joe and Robert Prosenick. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Mavis and Cindy Fortner; and brothers-in-law Dennis and Roger Fortner; along with many nieces and nephews.
Ruth Fortner was born in Philipsburg, Montana, on Sept. 5, 1947, to Wilhelmina (Grandma Billie) and Mr. Therriault. She was sister to Sonny, Joe, Darlene, Betty and Bobby. Ruth attended Anaconda High School. After high school, she married Melvin Fortner in 1967. Ruth worked for the Anaconda Police Department as a dispatcher for several years, later moving to Anaheim, California, to work as a dispatcher for the Anaheim Police Department. She later retired from Anaheim PD and moved back to Anaconda to enjoy her retirement years.
Ruth enjoyed being with family and friends. Her hobbies were cross-stitch, puzzle books, video games and chatting with all her social media friends.
Ruth was a person who enjoyed helping people whenever needed. She was always there for family and friends.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Sept. 25, 2021, at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home on 107 Oak Street in Anaconda, Montana. 
There will be one hour of visitation prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice in Ruth’s name. Condolences may be paid at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

​Karen Leona Haubbert
Karen Leona Haubbert, 64, went to her heavenly home on Friday, Aug. 13, 2021, after a long battle with diabetes.
Karen was born on Dec. 17, 1956, in Sacramento, California, and adopted by Neil Zimmerman and Arlene Ebhmen. Her family moved around a lot, and she ended up graduating from South San Francisco High School in 1975 in San Francisco, California.
After taking a road trip to see the Northwest, she passed through Deer Lodge, Montana, and loved the town so much she eventually moved there. She worked as a receptionist for Dr. Thomas Rachie, as a preparation associate at Pizza Hut and finally in the administrative support records Section or the Montana Department of Motor Vehicles until her employment ended due to health problems.
Karen married the love of her life, Ron Haubbert, on Oct. 21, 1999. She was very passioniate about everything she took on, from crocheting baby quilts for a number of friends to crocheting hats, gloves and scarves for military personnel overseas.
Karen is survived by her husband Ron Haubbert; brother Roger (LuAnn) Zimmerman; nephew Derrick Zimmerman; nieces Kirstie Zimmerman and Kendra Zimmerman; and her beloved pets Lunna, Bella and Trooper.
Cremation has taken place and Karen will be buried next to her mother and father in Sterling, Nebraska, on Sept. 22 at 11 a.m. Memorials may be made out to PAWHS in Deer Lodge, Montana. 
The family of Karen wish to thank the staff of Deer Lodge Medical Center and Benefis Health System in Great Falls, Montana, for services rendered.

​Joseph “Evan” Johnston
Joseph “Evan” Johnston, 53, of Deer Lodge passed away on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021. Evan was born on Aug. 11, 1968, in Deer Lodge to Joe and Judy Johnston.
Evan was a standout three-sport athlete for Powell County High School (Class of 1987). He received many awards and achievements, including a track scholarship to Jamestown College, where he met the love of his life, Dana. They were married Aug. 26, 1989, in Bridger, Montana. In 1991, he came back to the family ranch where he worked with his great uncle Robert Evans and his father Joe. Shortly after, the couple was greeted with two lovely children, Kylie Nicole and Ethan Joseph.
Evan was an exceptional rancher, farmer and man of authentic character who would always lend a helping hand to a neighbor. He was very proud to say that the 2 Bar Ranch was one of the first thousand members of the American Simmental Association, and Evan worked to consistently improve the genetics of his herd through AI and the bulls that he raised. He improved the working efficiency of the ranch by improving irrigation; updating buildings and cattle facilities; and many other aspects of the 2 Bar Ranch. Evan enjoyed working cows and traveling to team ropings alongside his family. He also enjoyed starting colts, riding through pairs in the high country, traveling to horse sales, and the occasional fishing trip. 
He was a civic-minded man who was on numerous committees which included: the Rocky Mountain Stockgrowers Association, the 4-H Market Committee, the Powell County High School Board, the St. John Lutheran Church Council. He was also a volunteer fireman with the Race Track Fire Department.
He was preceded in death by his father Joe, his great uncle Robert, and his father-in-law Don Goodman.
He is survived by his mother Judy; his wife of 32 years, Dana; daughter Kylie (Tayber) Goff; son Ethan (Marlee) Johnston; and sisters Kari (Allan) Labbe, Janet (Ed) Janney and Elaine (Mark) Taylor. Evan is also survived by mother-in-law Gloria Goodman, sister-in-law Dawn (Chris) Hagan, brother-in-law Donald Goodman Jr. and numerous nieces, nephews and very close family friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a committee or foundation of your choice.
A memorial service celebrating Evan’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at 45 Barn, 50 Highway 12, East, Garrison, Montana. A reception will follow. 
As per Evan’s request, please refrain from wearing black. Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Evan.

​Jim Shafford
Jim Shafford, 62, passed away Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, at the home he shared with longtime companion and partner Patricia Davis in Lost Creek. Jim was born in Deer Lodge on Jan. 23, 1959, to Laura (Lorello) and Elwood Shafford. He was the fifth of eight children and was raised in the Deer Lodge Valley.
Throughout his life Jim worked as a seismographer and an over-the-road flatbed truck driver, allowing him to travel the country. At times, he disliked getting in that semi and traveling all those miles — that just meant less miles he could be putting on his Harley. Not only was Jim an exceptional rider, but he could also fix “them old” Harleys on the fly. It was not uncommon for him to carry around an extra set of points for the old “knucklehead.” Don’t kid yourself, he could also tear those bikes down to the frame and rebuild them.
Jim was smart, kind soul who had a heart of gold. His tremendous enthusiasm and love for the open road will surely be missed by all he encountered. Jim will be missed most by those who never had the chance to completely know him.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Elwood and Laura Shafford; brothers Jerry, Jack, John and Billy Shafford; and niece Jodi Shafford.
Jim is survived by his two sons Justin (Christina) Shafford and Jeffrey (Shannon) Shafford; brothers Joe and Jed (Karrie) Shafford; sister Susie (Marty) Mavrinac; grandchildren Skyler Knuchel, Delaney (Ty) Pocha, Savannah Shafford, Logan Schlueter, Jace, Riley and Jesse Shafford; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place with the assistance of Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Anaconda. At this time, the family is grateful for the condolences but is declining flowers and donations. A memorial or celebration of life will be planned for a later date. Condolences may be paid at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Margaret (Marge) Beck Shandy
Margaret (Marge) Beck Shandy, age 94 of Helena, passed away Sept. 12, 2021.
Marge was born on Aug. 20, 1927, in Deer Lodge, Montana, to Margaret (O’Keefe) Beck and Peter L. Beck. She was the second child of four siblings.
Marge spent her early years living with her family on various ranches at Beck Hill, Helmsville and Finn Valley. She attended school in Finn through the eighth grade. The family then moved to Deer Lodge, where she attended high school and graduated from Powell County High School with the class of 1945.
On Aug. 9, 1945, Marge married Russell M. Shandy in Butte, Montana. Marge and Russ lived in Deer Lodge where Russ worked for the Milwaukee Railroad and Marge worked as a clerk at Safeway, IGA and the Coast-to-Coast Store. In 1961, they purchased a little ranch on Racetrack Creek where they continued to raise their three children. In 1973, with the family grown and gone, they sold the ranch and moved into Deer Lodge. Between 1973 and 1982, they lived in Challis, Idaho; Havre, Montana; and Livingston, Montana. In 1982 they returned to Deer Lodge.
In 1983, Russ passed away and Marge moved to Helena to be near her family. She worked at the Florence Crittenton Home and then as a senior companion. In 1998, Marge returned to Deer Lodge where she managed the Meadows Apartments, working until she was 80 years young.
 In 2009 she once more returned to Helena for health reasons.
Marge was an excellent seamstress. There were always new dresses for holidays, school and proms. She was a wonderful cook who could make a great dinner out of what she had on hand. Marge enjoyed visits with family and friends, which often turned into a card party or visits with much laughter and stories. She loved raising sheep and had many pet cows and lambs. She was a hard worker, and Marge’s laughter was infectious.
The great joy of Marge’s life were her grandchildren, all three generations. They were all “special” and loved by her. She took great pride in teaching them to Indian leg wrestle, fish and play a good game of cards or a board game. She also taught them all to laugh and left each generation with many “Gramma Marge” stories. In return, they loved her and were very caring and thoughtful of her.
Marge was preceded in death by her parents Maggie and Pete; her husband Russ; son Rich, their infant son, brother Charles Beck; sisters Rita Morgan and Helen Hallingstad; her brothers-in-law Tom Morgan and Duane Hallingstad; sisters-in-law Rhea Beck and Carla Beck; and son in-law Pete Horton.
Marge is survived by her daughters and son-in-law, Lin and Jim Quigley and Deb Horton; her sister Barbara (Jim) Weis; her 13 grandchildren; her 22 great grandchildren; and her four great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who were often in her thoughts.
Until we meet again, we will miss you so much. Thank you!
Services will be held in Deer Lodge at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at 11 a.m. A graveyard service will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, with a reception to follow at St. Mary’s Hall.
Donations can be made to your local food bank in memory of Marge Shandy. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Marge.

​Marjie White Scharf
Marjie White Scharf passed away on Nov. 13, 2020. Jack and family request that you please come and celebrate Marjie’s life — to tell stories, remember good times, share laughs and get re-acquainted with old friends — on Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, at 1 p.m. in the Pioneer Room at the Broken Arrow in Deer Lodge.

​Brian L. Johnson
Brian L. Johnson, age 73 of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on Sept. 13, 2021. Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence, or to share a memory of Brian.

Donna Marie Miller Weber
Donna Marie Miller Weber, age 85, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 31, 2021. Our family can all attest to our Mom’s strength and strong will for all of what life had handed her.
Donna was born in Butte, Montana, and grew up in Elliston, graduating from Powell County High School. She married the love of her life, Ronald Weber, on March 10, 1956. Donna was a homemaker most of her life but enjoyed many hobbies. She was a worldly collector of many items, including a vast salt and pepper shaker collection which can be seen at the Deer Lodge museum. She loved reading as a way to learn, and she especially enjoyed crocheting and stamp collecting, but one of the last hobbies she had spent time doing was bobbin lace. She once flew to New York to attend a bobbin lace convention and remarked that for a portion of the flight, she chatted with and enjoyed the company of a little known musician, a young man named MC Hammer.
Donna loved family events more than anything and especially enjoyed the holidays. Many, many stories came from Christmas morning, as well as Thanksgiving in Elliston and dressing up for Halloweens as a witch or any number of costumes Donna usually put together herself. She made up her granddaughter Amber as Roger Rabbit for school one year. Mom also coached her daughter Julie in sewing many costumes for Annie, Eva and Claire.
Donna always spoke highly of several families in her life — She had stories of her own children, but also spoke of the friends her own kids brought over to play. She spoke of all the neighborhood kids that we grew up with like they were her own, the kids of the sixth ward were a wild bunch. During the years spent living in Elliston, Ron and Donna were thankful for the Carroll family and their four boys who endlessly helped with many chores.
Mom had some brief employment at the Helena State Nursery as a dibbler — the person who poked holes with their finger and dropped in seeds to grow the beautiful flowers they were known for — as well as selling corn on a corn truck for Kinsey Gardens.
Her favorite stories come from when she worked for the phone company (Ma Bell) as an operator at a switchboard. Like the shows on TV, she would talk to those on one end and connect them with their other party on the other end.
Dad and Mom enjoyed traveling and fishing in their later years. The different boats they had for lake fishing made for great fun with the grandkids, along with camping at White Earth and various other lakes. 
Dad said that almost every time they fished, Mom would out-catch Dad no matter what they were using. As they slowed down some, going out and cooking over an open fire with their kids and grandkids gave them great pleasure. Mom and Dad enjoyed watching the grandkids play sports for Helena High and Capital High. Mom was always with Dad at the bowling alley and she had many close friends from those times.
Donna is preceded in death by her husband Ron; and her parents John and Gladys Miller. She is survived by her sister Mary Ann Fee; daughter Julie McKenna; grandchildren Annie Waples (Daniel Renfro), Eva Andrade (Juan) and Claire Waples (Tahisha); son John Weber with grandkids Tim Draper and Melissa Wilks (Brandon); son Ron Weber (Kari) with grandkids Amber Andersen and Adam Weber; and five great grandchildren.
Services will be held Saturday, September 18, at 2 p.m. at the Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. 
There will be a graveside service at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison on Tuesday, September 21, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elliston Church, P.O. Box 57, Elliston. MT 59728. To offer a condolence or to share a story about Donna, please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com.

​Russell Wayne Jennings
Russell Wayne Jennings passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2021.
Russ was born in Deer Lodge, Montana, on September 29, 1936, to Ayres and Edna Jennings. After graduating from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s degree, Russ moved to Harlowton, Montana, to teach in the high school. While there he met Peggy Fuchs. They were married on December 3, 1960. 
They moved to Missoula, Montana, where Russ completed his master’s degree. Russ was then awarded an assistant teaching position at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois, where he also completed his PhD.
Russ worked in the human resource department at the Hanford nuclear plant in the state of Washington; the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station in Phoenix, Arizona; and he taught classes at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Russ spent his retirement years in Gilbert, Arizona, close to his family.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers (one an infant). He is survived by his daughter Janet Pattison (Graham), his son Bryce Jennings and his granddaughter Jessica Jennings.

Dixie Elnore Wohlers Henderson
​Dixie Elnore Wohlers Henderson, age 83, passed away on August 19, 2021, surrounded by her children in Deer Lodge, Montana.
Dixie was born August 8, 1938, in Deer Lodge to Richard and Elnore Wohlers. 
She is survived by her sons Mike Hotchkiss of Deer Lodge, Montana, Tom (Leona) Henderson of Hamilton, Montana and John Henderson of Deer Lodge, Montana; her daughter Zana (Kevin) Hogan of Gold Creek, Montana; her grandchildren Brittany Hotchkiss of Cut Bank, Montana, Stephanie (Rodney) Hunter of Deer Lodge, Montana, Shelby Jensen of Missoula, Montana and Riley Henderson of Dillon, Montana; and her one great granddaughter Lexi Stubs of Cut Bank, Montana. Dixie is also survived by her sister Judy Matti of Stevensville, Montana, brother William (Susan) Wohlers of Portland, Oregon, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents Richard and Elnore Wohlers, her first husband Richard Hotchkiss and her brother John Wohlers.
Dixie was raised on the family rancvh in Gold Creek, where she spent her time riding horses, fishing and working. She graduated from Powell County High School in 1956. She married Richard Hotchkiss in 1956 and was blessed with her son Mike. She later married Merril Henderson in 1960 and was blessed with Tom, John and Zana. She worked in the law offices of Joe McElwain and Scotty McCallmun, later working for Jim Masar. She then worked at Deer Lodge City Hall until her retirement.
Dixie was well known for her wealth of knowledge. She was a hard worker and was the family historian. She loved spending time with family, sewing and playing a good game of pinochle.
A celebration of life will be held September 17, 2021, at 11 a.m. at the Rialto Community Theatre, with lunch to follow at the Elks Club.
Memorial donations may be made in Dixie’s name to the Rialto Community Theater, P.O. Box 874, Deer Lodge, MT 59722.

​Alisha Llamas
Alisha Llamas passed away Tuesday, August 31st, 2021, after a long battle with various medical issues.
She began her career as a CNA at Madison County nursing home in Ennis, Montana. She later relocated to Deer Lodge, Montana, with her four daughters. She worked as a CNA at the Deer Lodge Medical Center’s long-term care facility, spending many years there. She also worked at Beyond Home assisted living and at Aware Inc. Galen MT.
Alisha enjoyed every minute of caring for people and being able to provide the best care for every person she came across. She enjoyed spending her free time with family and friends, as well as taking trips to California to be with her family. She made many long-lasting memories and friendships along her journey through life.
She is preceded in death by her parents Isaac and Caroline Ramirez; her Aunt Babe; and her husband David Llamas.
She is survived by her sister Patricia (Roberto) Cerda; daughters Silvia Llamas, Maria (Steven Vetter) Llamas, Carolina (Edgar) Salinas, Jessica (Wesley) Sinerius. She is also survived by grandchildren Jasmine Tallon; David and Victoria Llamas; Lisa and Katelyn Vetter; Emmanuel, Alejandro, Isaac and Sofia Salinas; and Jess Marie Sinerius, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Alisha will be missed by many and will forever be in our hearts. There will be a graveside service on Sept. 10 at 2 p.m. at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge, Montana.

​Judith Mavis Ask
Judith Mavis Ask, passed away on Saturday, August 21st.  Judy was born June 13, 1942 to Arthur and Gladys in Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa.  The family moved to Montana in 1948 and eventually settled in Deer Lodge in 1952.  Judy had a very close relationship with her sister Joan Cutler. She was Aunt to Joan’s four children:  Loxie, Lonnie, Chuck, and Sandy Judy enjoyed many hobbies to include riding horses and motorcycles in her younger years. Judy loved animals and owned a pet grooming business for many years.  Judy started working in Oct 1976 for the Registrars Bureau, of Motor Vehicles, retiring in Dec 2004.  
Judy loved her nieces and nephews dearly, spending time with them during summer vacations in Kalispell, Mt. The summer activities included hiking, swimming, target shooting, fly fishing on the upper Flathead river and troll fishing on Flathead lake. Her sister and best friend Joan enjoyed traveling to Reno/Jackpot for weekend getaways to test their luck.  They also enjoyed their traditional Norwegian Christmas dinner of Lutefisk and lefse bread – a taste not acquired by the rest of the family.
Judy is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Joan and nephew Lonnie. She is survived by her nieces Loxie and Sandy (Kirk) “Swede”), Chuck (Jonna), grandchildren (Josh, Lance, Lacie, Shane and Robyn) and many great nieces and nephews.
Judy was kind and gentle woman who always thought of others first – her passing has left a void in the lives of all who knew and loved her. She never missed a birthday or Christmas. 
Per Judy’s request, no services are planned at this time – a celebration of her life will occur with close family and friends in the future.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Judith.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Judith and her family.

James I Waite
James I Waite passed away on August 23, 2021, surrounded by his family.  He was born in Deadwood, ID on November 29, 1945, to Olga Marie Ivie Waite and Earl Nichols Waite Sr.  He was the 5th of 7 children.  James and his family lived in various cities in Idaho and Colorado growing up. 
James attended numerous elementary schools across Idaho and Colorado.  His high school years were mostly spent in Salmon.  While in high school James worked with his father at Earl Waite and Sons performing various tasks for underground mining.  This started his lifelong love of identifying different rocks and becoming an amateur geologist. 
James was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for all his life, and he served a building mission when he was 19 years old in the Cottonwood area of Salt Lake City, UT.  He served in various callings to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints through his many years as a member.  His temple service was one of his most joyous activities.
While still attending Salmon High School he met his beloved wife of 54 years, Miss Peggy Sue Corbett.  They began dating while Peggy was in college at Ricks College in Rexburg, ID, and were married July 7, 1967.  Together James and Peggy traveled the country working in mining for different companies, but always returning to Idaho.  James also worked in excavating on the Teton Dam and other such underground pursuits.  He loved to spend time hunting, fishing, and camping through the summers with his family.  In 1985 James was badly injured in the Clayton Silver Mine and spent the next year recovering before attempting to return to mining in Butte, MT, but that accident ended his mining days.  
In 1987 James and his family moved to Willard, UT where he worked on a cherry ranch, and they continued raising their family.  And in 1989 they moved to Ogden, UT where he worked as a maintenance technician.  
James continued to enjoy camping with his family and otherwise spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He enjoyed growing a garden and working in it with his wife.  Together they would share the fruits of that garden with family, friends, and visitors.  He was known to always have a loving word and candy for his grandchildren.  The many visitors to his home were always welcome and knew they were valued.  He had a love of playing games with his family and teaching them to others.  James loved to teach others of his love of the Savior.  He spent many an hour in the Temple.  He never knew a stranger, as if he met one, they were soon a friend.  He touched the lives of all around him.
In March of 2020 James and Peggy traveled to Deer Lodge, MT to assist their son and daughter-in-law with family business and were still there when the pandemic hit the United States and they decided to stay in Montana for safety at that time.  While there he had a significant stroke, which made the stay in Montana a permanent one.  In his last year of life, he enjoyed playing games with his grandchildren and teaching them all he could.
James was proceeded in death by his parents Earl and Olga Waite, his sisters Phyllis Mae Brazzell and Mickey Marie Waite and brother George Richard Waite, and his beloved son Burton LeRoy Waite.  
He is survived by his wife Peggy Sue Waite, his children Susan Kay McCollor, James C Waite (Denise), Loren Gene Waite (Cindy), and Joseph Earl Waite, 16 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.  Survived also by his siblings Earl Waite Jr, Thomas Waite (Lisa), and Loretta Peck (Gary).  
James is escorted by pallbearers James Waite, Loren Waite, Joseph Waite, Kobe Waite, Matthew Waite, Bronx Waite, Ross Waite, and Hudson Waite.  Honorary pallbearers Earl Waite Jr, Thomas Waite, and Gary Peck to his final resting place.  Services will be held on September 3, 2021, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 400 S Daisy St Salmon, ID.  The viewing is at 10:00 am and the service is at 11:00 am with internment to follow.  A luncheon is scheduled to follow internment at the church.  The funeral service will also be available to stream on zoom.  The zoom link will be available on the funeral home’s website www.jonesandcaseyfh.com.  Memorials can be sent to Peggy Waite at 708 4st St Deer Lodge, MT 59722.

Timothy Matthew Tolon
Timothy Matthew Tolon, 69 passed away on August 20, 2021, in Clancy, MT due to complications from diabetes. Tim was born on July 21, 1952, in Deer Lodge, MT.  Tim was the eldest child of seven, born to Lois (Potts) and Richard (Moose) Tolon.
Tim attended schools in Anaconda, MT, Livermore, CA, and Helena, MT. He graduated from high school in Helena, MT and went on to work for the State of Montana for 27 years.  Diabetes forced his retirement, but he continued to live a productive and fulfilling life until recent years.
In Tim’s younger years, he enjoyed working with his uncle Frank Potts on the Helmville ranch and later with Todd and Eldon Voss, helping with work related projects in the Helmville area.  
Tim was a faithful and devoted Catholic, attending Mass regularly. He occasionally met with the Helmville community church to celebrate with fellow townspeople amongst his many friendships.  
Tim was well known around Deer Lodge and Helmville, fondly, as his daily walks and his volunteer work at PAWHS Humane Society made him many friends. Tim’s smile and wave always gained a “Hello, Tim!”, from the locals. Tim was dedicated to the impounded and loved dogs at PAWHS, and it gave him great happiness walking them from the shelter around town… much to the dogs’ enjoyment! 
Although Tim had a reading disability, his many kind acts and accomplishments came from his uncanny knack to match people with their needs. He was very worldly in his sense to spot and locate items, real estate rentals and sales, pets, vehicles, firewood, etc. for those who were looking for a match.  He helped so many people with his keen awareness of what people were needing and took no time matching things up for so many. 
Among his love for helping and tending to animals, going to rodeos to watch the horses, a checker champion, and collecting miscellaneous items for his enjoyment, Tim was, unbeknownst to him, a town treasure…A person who was always out to help others and give a smile and kind word or deed. 
He proved that his limitations did not block him from many obstacles. He contributed to his community in so many ways, and that brought him happiness.  Boundaries did not define Tim’s life. His heart did.
Tim is survived by his mother, Lois Tolon, Helmville, MT; brothers, Tom Tolon of Colorado Springs, CO, Dan Tolon of Bluffton, SC, and Mike (Lesley) Tolon of Helena, MT; sisters, Terese Penix of Omaha, NE, and Luanne Antila of Elliston, MT; nephews and nieces, Destine Tolon, Lisa (Max) Schneider, Eric (Heather) Tolon, Cory Tolon, Brett (Marlena) Tolon, Sean Tippin, Brandon (Emily) Antila, Bo Antila and many great nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Tim is preceded in death by his father, Richard (Moose) Tolon; brother, Ed Tolon; brother-in-law, Danny Antila; and nephew, Alec Tolon.
Sometimes angels are disguised as people with special needs to teach us how to be better people.
The Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m. with a funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 4th at the Saint Thomas Apostle Catholic Church, 108 Main St in Helmville, MT.  Burial will follow the Mass at the Helmville Cemetery.  A reception will follow the burial at the Helmville Community Center, MT Highway 271.  Suggested donations made in loving memory of Tim in lieu of flowers: St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Helmville, MT, Helmville Community Club, PAWHS Humane Society, Deer Lodge, MT, or donor’s choice. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Tim.

​Barbara Regina Strong
Barbara Regina Strong passed from this world early on Monday August 16th, 2021; she passed peacefully at Stillwater Hospice in Billings, MT.   Barb was born on October 14th, 1955 in Deer Lodge, MT to Edward and Inge Wysocki .  She is survived by her son Daniel Wirth and wife Cheryl, son Aaron Wirth and fiancé Sarah, son Joel Wirth and wife Morgan, and daughter Gabrielle Strong and partner Emmanuel Lozano, granddaughters Katrina, Naudia and Nina, and one great-grandson.  She also leaves behind her three siblings, brother Henry Wysocki, sister Inger Tognetti and sister Eva Curry.
Barb had a passion for life, she enjoyed gardening, hiking, cross country skiing, reading books of all kinds and the company of family and good friends. The annual “Sisters” weekend she spent with Inger and Eva was one of the things she looked forward to most.  
Barb survived two bouts with cancer and throughout her battles her motto was “Keep on Truckin!” and she lived by that for long after her treatments were done, even when the road was a rough one.  She is loved and missed by many and will be carried in our hearts for eternity.  
Please join us in celebrating her life at Immaculate Conception  Church in Deer Lodge,  Friday September 10th, 2021 at 11am followed by the interment of the cremains at Hillcrest Cemetery.  A luncheon will be served at St. Mary’s Center after.

​Michele “Mickie” McQueary
Michele “Mickie” McQueary, age 72, of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on August 6, 2021. A celebration of her life will be held from 1-4 pm on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at the Elks Lodge, 230 Main St., Deer Lodge, MT 59722. Mickie will be laid to rest during a private burial at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge. Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Mickie. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Mickie and her family.

Death Notice for James Hansen
James “Jim” Hansen, 83, of Gold Creek, MT, died Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at the Community Hospital of Anaconda. 
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Jim’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Death Notice for Dale Filcher
Dale Filcher, 84, of Deer Lodge, MT, died Saturday, August 28, 2021, at the Community Nursing Home of Anaconda. 
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Dale’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Margaret (Margie) Jean McMahon
Margaret (Margie) Jean McMahon, a woman of quiet grace and with a beautiful servant’s heart, died on August 10, 2021, following five years of fighting with cancer. Margie was determined in this battle and kept her glorious smile and concern for others throughout the difficult days. Although her last months included many challenging bouts with pain and suffering, the most memorable times were the supportive visits and phone calls from family and friends. They brought incredible moments of joy and love, along with delicious treats and memorable conversations. Margie’s family will be forever grateful for everyone’s prayers, generosity and loving support.
Margie attended Helena Public Schools, graduating with honors from Helena High School in 1985. The former Bengal played volleyball and was a member of the 1984 AA Girls’ Basketball State Championship squad (which was inducted into the Helena Sports Hall of Fame in 2011). She was remembered by her classmates as a beautiful person inside and out with a smile on her face and a kind word on her lips.
After high school, Margie ventured to the Big Apple to work for a wonderful family, caring for their three young children. After a year, she returned to Montana, earning a business management degree at the U of M while living in the Alpha Phi house with many terrific gals, including her future sister-in-law Shannon Velk.
Margie started her business management career as a sales manager at Hennessy’s in Missoula, later transferring to their headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, as a buyer and then a corporate planner. The company relocated to Arkansas with Margie returning to Missoula with employment as a sales manager for Herberger’s.
Lastly, she moved to her parents’ Helena home in 2004 working another five years as a Clinique consultant at Dillard’s department store. In the summer of 2009, she resigned to look for a new opportunity, returning to college earning a certificate in nutrition and health promotion.
During the past 15 years, Margie selflessly shared her talents with those living at God’s Love or by volunteering in her community. She attended daily mass, mostly online since the beginning of the recent pandemic; yet was a dedicated St. Helena Cathedral parishioner receiving immense solace from the Sacraments. Having that beautiful servant’s heart helped her to live in peace and love of Jesus. Her one audience was the Lord! His grace helped to enlighten her mind and strengthen her will to do good.
In 2017, the McMahon family had a grand reunion! Margie listed some favorite things to do as walking, Pilates, reading and baking. Over the years, she also created several awesome scrapbooks, taught herself to crochet and was beginning to learn the piano. She loved lake activities, especially water skiing with her brothers and friends. Margie thoroughly enjoyed having the chance to see her four nephews and her niece during their various sporting events. Margie considered family dinners and holiday gatherings as a blessing. In the reunion photo memory book, these words help explain the meaning of family:
“Our family is a circle of strength. Founded on faith, joined in love, and kept by God. With every birth and with every union, the circle grows. Every sorrow faced together makes the circle stronger and every joy-filled moment spent together increases the love! After all, family isn’t an important thing, it is Everything.”
Margie asked for appreciation and special recognition to be given to all the dedicated and talented medical professionals who cared for her, especially those from Frontier Home Health and St. Peter’s Hospice, as well as Dr. Thomas Weiner.
During the past 11 years, Margie greatly missed her beloved brother, Michael Thomas McMahon and prayed daily for the repose of his soul; and the same for her cousins Joseph and Tony Appel, and David Zugel. Additionally, those special family members preceding Margie in death were her grandparents Patrick and Madge McMahon, and Anthony and Margaret Zugel; her aunts Jeanne Zugel and Tricia McMahon Mileweski; as well as uncles Larry and Jim Zugel, and Frank Mileweski.
Margie is survived by her loving parents, Gene and Peggy McMahon; brother Jim McMahon; sister Maureen McMahon-Mannix (Randy) and their sons Neil, Joe and Dan; her sister-in-law Shannon Velk McMahon and children, Kaitlin and Brian; along with many loving aunts, uncles and cousins who gave immense care and support during her illness. Her pallbearers will be Jim McMahon; Randy Mannix; Neil, Joe and Dan Mannix; and Brian McMahon.
To celebrate Margie’s life, there will be a vigil service on Tuesday, August 17, at 6 p.m. at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena. The Mass of Christian Burial held at St. Helena Cathedral at 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 18, with burial immediately following at Resurrection Cemetery. The vigil service will also be available online. A reception will be held at the funeral home following the burial.
Special family friend and author Debbie Boyle leads us in prayer for Margie with this poem:
“Faithful servant, the sun sets low, your journey begins with miles to go. Lay down regrets, cast sorrows aside, reach to the heavens, arms open wide. Good servant, worthy believer, life begins anew! Godspeed. God Bless. Peace be with you.”
Suggested donations made in the loving memory of Margie in lieu of flowers: St. Helena Cathedral, St. Peter’s Hospice, God’s Love or donor’s choice. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Margie.

​Ona Edwards Lake
Ona Edwards Lake was born on May 27, 1915, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to A.I.F. and Carrie Nesley Edwards. She was raised in Broadus and Miles City, Montana; and in Snohomish, Washington. She graduated from Custer County High School in 1933.
On May 1, 1937, she married James J. “Dutch” Lake in Anaconda. She resided in Deer Lodge until she retired from the Milwaukee Railroad as the superintendent’s secretary in 1974 after 17 years of service. After retirement she moved to the Swan Valley to enjoy her second home. She enjoyed hiking with numerous valley friends and was an avid snowmobiler.
She was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister. Her husband James “Dutch” Lake passed on May 21, 1992.
Ona is survived by her son Michael and daughter-in-law Betty of Swan Valley; three grandsons; and numerous great and great-great grandchildren and much-loved nieces and nephews. There will be no services.

Michele “Mickie” Ann McQueary
Michele Ann McQueary, also known as “Mickie,” passed peacefully from this life in the early morning of August 6, 2021, at the family ranch. She was born to Michael and Bette Lacey on July 31, 1949, joining her brother Tim Lacey. They were later blessed by their younger sister Marianne.
In Mickie’s younger years, her devoted mother moved the family back to Deer Lodge where Bette became the loving wife of Gene Burt. 
It was during this time that Mickie started to take a liking to a young man, Dan McQueary. Mickie and her friend Karen Beck would ride their horses to take Kool-Aid out to him in the hay field. No one else in the field got any attention but him. June 27, 1970, was the day she made that young man her husband during a ceremony at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Deer Lodge. They were later blessed with two boys, Troy in 1973 and Jeff in 1977.
Mickie always made every house an immaculate, warm and loving home for Dan and her boys, whether it was making do with the apartment above the Norge, raising the boys in the little house on Missouri or in the house at the ranch. She took pride in her yard, wherever that was, and always had lots of beautiful flowers. Meals would always be ready, even when everyone showed up at different times.
Invariably she was the one to get things handled. Whether it was finding a place for the newlyweds to live, planning family gatherings or handling the final wishes of loved ones, Mickie was the one to take the bull by the horns and get the task accomplished. When her Pierce Aunts (Mae, Eva, Helen and Margie) aged, she was there to handle any tasks necessary to aid in their wellbeing. Together with her sister, they also helped and cared for their mom and dad (Bette and Gene Burt) as they moved onto their golden years.
Mickie always had a job, even if it meant working at night to make sure she was home for the boys. 
She retired in 2016 from 31 years of serving as the school business clerk (at both the high school and elementary levels) and was well respected for her knowledge and efficiency. Including the years working at the title and registration office, that gave her 34 years serving public interests.
Mickie is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Dan; her boys Troy (Rikki) and Jeff (Rikki); grandchildren Dace, Keaton, Kaylee, and Olivia; great-granddaughter Eastyn; sister Marianne (Mike) Saylor; and sister-in-law Laura (Bob) Rodriguez. Several nieces, nephews, in-laws, other extended family and close friends are also left behind.
A celebration of Mickie’s life will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at the Elks Lodge in Deer Lodge. Mickie will be laid to rest during a private burial at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in honor of Mickie be made to the Rialto Community Theatre or Powell County Senior Citizens. Please visit  www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Mickie.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Mickie and her family.

​Ralph Alexander Lintz
Ralph Alexander Lintz, devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2021, from natural causes.
Ralph was born on July 27, 1939, in Deer Lodge, Montana, to William and Mildred (Mootz) Lintz. His father was a locomotive engineer for the Milwaukee railroad and his mother was a homemaker and talented seamstress. Ralph was the oldest of four children and the Lintz household was a popular and lively gathering place in Deer Lodge.
Ralph graduated from Powell County High School in 1957. Throughout his childhood, he worked to earn money for his college education. During high school Ralph formed many enduring friendships, especially with the people he met while working at the local ice house loading ice onto refrigerator railcars (often at night, and right up until the morning school bell).
Like many of his friends, Ralph paid his own way through college and, in 1962, he graduated from the University of Montana in Missoula with a B.A. in Education. Ralph could often be found studying at a local diner, where he washed dishes and was sometimes paid in free meals. After college, with a 1-A draft status, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Officer Training School. He served as a personnel officer in Mississippi, Texas and Turkey with the rank of first lieutenant. Always looking for a place to play golf, he built a small course at the base in Samsun, Turkey. After discharge from the USAF, Ralph returned to the University of Montana and earned a master’s in business administration in 1967.
Having first met in Deer Lodge in 1959 and, following an eight-year, long-distance, off-and-on courtship, Ralph married Dorothea (Dot) in 1968. Together they moved to Seattle, where Ralph began work at Boeing as a marketing analyst in their commercial airplane division. In 1970, Ralph and Dot settled in Kitsap County and Ralph started work at what would become Great Northwest Bank in Bremerton. Hired into the marketing department, Ralph’s role grew as he became director of marketing and branch operations, executive vice president, president, chief operating officer and board member. He retired in 1992.
Ralph stayed busy outside of work and was active in the community throughout his life. A Bremerton Rotary member for 34 years, he served as club secretary and could often be found hosting the hospitality table. He also volunteered for the United Way Loaned Executive program and was on the Kitsap YMCA Board. Ralph served on the board of Harrison Hospital and its foundation for 36 years, including a term as president. These philanthropic efforts were rewarded in 1996 when he was named a community hero by Olympic organizers and was chosen to carry the Olympic torch on its relay route through East Bremerton. Ralph and Dot were also honored with the Kitsap Community Foundation’s Spirit of Philanthropy award in 2016. Ralph was a devoted father who spent many weekends coaching girls’ soccer, boys’ basketball, or umpiring in boys’ baseball. Ralph was an avid golfer and spent many mornings before and after his retirement on the course at Kitsap Golf and Country Club. He played league basketball at the Kitsap YMCA as often as he could. At home, he spent many hours working in the garden and sitting on the deck watching passing ferries, Navy ships, submarines and countless sunsets.
Ralph became famous for his monthly “Good Morning” emails and his Facebook posts of his garden. Ralph loved being a grandpa, especially when it came to holding the grandkids while they napped, reading to them and playing outside. Luckily, he gladly tolerated their endless pranks.
Ralph is survived by his wife Dorothea; son Charles (Carrie); daughter Ellen Dempsey (Sean); and grandchildren Rylie, Jacob, Daniel, Lauren and Colin. He is also survived by his sister Suzanne Ives and brothers Bill Lintz (Judy) and Dave Lintz (Stacy). His extended family includes sister-in-law Margaret Striebel, brother-in-law Jim Striebel (Bonnie), Joan Lintz (Terry, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A celebration of life will be held at Kitsap Golf and Country Club in Bremerton on Sunday, August 15, 2021, from 1-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, the St. Michael Medical Center Foundation (Nursing Education) or the University of Montana Foundation (College of Business).

Timothy Allen Olsen
Timothy Allen Olsen went home to his Lord and Savior on July 28, 2021. He was born on September 15, 1951. He was dearly loved by his parents Robert and Joyce Olsen. In 1957 his younger brother Joe joined the family. Tim was the fifth generation to live on the family ranch where he spent his life working alongside his family passing on many lessons of life in the Lord to those he loved. God blessed him with his lifelong love Janet. They shared 51 years of wonderful memories serving the Lord and watching their family grow, praying always 3 John 1:4
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
Although Tim was born in 1951, his true birth came in 1978 when he gave his heart and life to his Savior Jesus Christ. In 1983 he was licensed into the ministry. He loved the Lord and let Christ’s love influence him and those around him. He joyfully served the Lord and spread the gospel during his years of teaching and preaching, from Montana to California and Las Vegas. Tim loved his church family, and at the time of his passing, he was serving on the pastoral staff alongside his son Shane and good friend Howard Neckels at First Baptist Church in Deer Lodge.
Tim is greatly loved and he is survived by his wife Janet; his son Shane; his daughter-in-law Lisa;  his grandchildren Robert, Ryan and wife Abby; and great-grandson Carter, as well as his daughter Tanya and granddaughter Isabel.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Joyce Olsen, brother Joseph Olsen and his nephew Carrie J. Olsen.
A celebration of Tim’s life was held on Tuesday — Thank you for celebrating a life well lived. He was laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Tim. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Tim and his family.

Mary Alice Bice
Mary Alice Bice, formally of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away surrounded by family on July 21, 2021, at St. Luke’s hospital in Meridian, Idaho.
Mary Alice was born in Butte, Montana, to Verna (Arnold) and Charles Vincent on May 9, 1936, the third of four children. Mary was raised in Virginia City and then Anaconda, Montana, graduating from Anaconda High School in 1954. On December 28, 1955, she married John Shaul; they had three children together, Rick, Al and Leianne. Mary and John later divorced in 1965. In 1969, Mary Alice moved to Deer Lodge and married Robert Bice; together they had one child, Mark. Mary Alice and Robert were later divorced in 1973. Mary Alice continued living in Deer Lodge until 1991, when she moved to Warm Springs to be closer to work. Mary Alice then moved to Idaho to be closer to all of her children in 1996.
Throughout the years, Mary Alice worked many jobs to provide for her family. She was a waitress, bartender (Broken Arrow), hotel clerk (Deer Lodge Hotel), worked at the Montana State Alcoholics Hospital at Galen and then finished 20 years working for the state as a nurse’s aide at Warm Springs, Montana. After moving to Idaho, she worked until retirement at MCMS (computer chip manufacturing).
Mary Alice enjoyed spending time with friends and family. She bowled on leagues and traveled around Montana with her best friends Audie, Lee, Judy and Connie. After retirement, she remained close friends with several co-workers through the years. Mary Alice also found a new special companion, Jim Garland of Emmett, Idaho. They spent most weekends in Donnelly, Idaho, at his cabin on the lake. They also traveled to Texas and throughout Idaho and Montana. They were extremely close and she was very saddened at his death in 2013. Mary Alice also had several hobbies she really enjoyed, including reading and crocheting blankets for everyone. Her blankets were lovingly made for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and as donations to several community fundraisers. Mary Alice could always be found watching tennis, the Olympics, wrestling, her favorite baseball team the Atlanta Braves and western movies. One of her favorite joys in life was spoiling her two little dogs Bobi and Buddy. 
Mary Alice’s greatest accomplishments in recent years were surviving non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, being in full remission and being very proud that she never contracted COVID-19.
Mary Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Verna Vincent of Anaconda, Montana; brother James “Jim” Vincent of Anaconda, Montana; sister Andrea Vincent Fraser of Missoula, Montana; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Mary Alice is survived by her brother David (Helen) Vincent of Spokane, Washington; her sons Rick (Charlene) Shaul of Elliston, Montana, Al (Diane) Shaul of Meridian, Idaho, and Mark (Shannon) Bice of Boise, Idaho; her daughter Leianne Hintz (Gib) of Meridian, Idaho; grandchildren John (Heather) Shaul of Nampa, Idaho, Jessie (Melanie) Shaul of Emmett, Idaho, Nichole (Dre) Percell of Nampa, Idaho, Josh (Alyssa) Shaul of Helena, Montana, Aiden Bice and Saoirse Bice of Boise ID; great-grandchildren Nakayia, Amirrah, Talayna and Kezeric Percell of Nampa, Idaho, William Shaul of Nampa, Idaho: and numerous cousins and friends.
Cremation will be handled by the Cremation Society of Idaho. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 4, 2021, with a time and location in Idaho to be determined. In Mary Alice’s honor, please consider donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or the American Cancer Society.

Steven Michael Wood (Woody)
Steven Michael Wood (Woody) passed away July 15th, 2021, at his home in Garrison, Montana.
Steve was born September 17, 1959, to mother Judith Wood in Helena, Montana. He grew up and attended schools in Deer Lodge, Montana, until enlisting in the United States Army and then being stationed in Germany. Later he returned to civilian life in Deer Lodge, Montana, working several jobs in the area to support his family.
Fishing and hunting with his son Jake were a couple of his favorite pastimes. 
Steve was a very generous man and often invited his family up for a Sunday dinner and a hand at chess, cribbage or pinochle. But watch out, he was good at pouncing his opponent, fast pegging in cribbage or out beating his opponent at chess.
For the last few years, he stepped in to help his mother run the Garrison Mercantile.
He is survived by his two sons, Jake (Amy) Wood and Mike Campbell, and his grandchildren Zachary, Alexa, and Emerson. Additionally, he is mourned by his mother, Judith Wood; sisters Rhonda (Red) Amdahl, Teresa (Dennis) Pomeroy and Michele (Carrie) Pomeroy; many nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews. Steve was preceded in death by his (Lori Wood) daughter Corrine and sister Renee’ Pomeroy Ayers.
He will be sorely missed by his family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Steve’s honor to NAMI.org.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date for friends and family.

Marjorie (Margie) Shanley Jensen
On July 20, 2021, Margie Jensen peacefully passed away from natural causes. Margie reached her goal of living 90 glorious years on earth. She was ready to join our Heavenly Father and her beloved husband Bob Jensen, who had passed in 2004.
Margie was born June 29, 1931, in Deer Lodge, Montana, to Paul and Eva Shanley. She attended school in Deer Lodge and graduated from Powell County High School. Margie married the love of her life, Bob Jensen, on Valentine’s Day 1951 at the Deer Lodge First Presbyterian Church.
Margie made Deer Lodge her home until October 2017, when she moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she lived with her daughter Lynda Jensen and son-in-law Bob Medeiros.  In May 2021, Margie moved to Denver, Colorado. She was cared for by her son Mike Jensen (Denver) during the final months of her life. Her grandchildren Brock Jensen, Dane Jensen (Darci Smerchek) and Lisa Davidson; and her great grandchildren Haddie Jensen and Reggie Jensen all live in the Denver area.
Margie was a dedicated, loving wife, mother and daughter, and a loyal friend to many. She was humble, appreciative and kind, and lived her life with grace and good humor. She had a special love for animals. 
We all enjoyed Margie’s great sense of humor, contagious laugh and zest for life. She enjoyed playing bridge, painting, reading and simply chatting with friends over coffee. During her years in Deer Lodge, Margie worked at several different places including the telephone company, the post office, Powell County and Crystal’s clothing store. She had a great sense of fashion.
Margie’s ashes will return home and be placed next to her husband’s at the Deer Lodge cemetery at some date in the near future.