Read through the obituaries published in Independent Record
“In Our Care”
PENDING
ROYBAL, Judy M., age 75, of Helena, passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2019. Services are pending at this time and will be announced once they're complete. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Judy.
In the early morning hours of Sunday, November 24, 2019, Shannon J. Spencer drifted peacefully away in his sleep of natural causes in Bozeman, Montana. He was born June 12, 1971 in Helena, Montana, where he lived his whole life.
Shannon graduated from Helena High School and entered adulthood as a proud Marine. He served honorably in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, where he suffered an injury that resulted in him having a metal plate in his head. He spent many years working with his Dad as the Foreman for Spencer Concrete. He also worked at Respond, an emergency medical supply distributor. Shannon was a rescue diver for Lewis & Clark County Search and Rescue. He was a member of the American Legion and the Wolf Pack. For the last decade he dedicated himself to serving and assisting Veterans, most recently as a Veteran Employment Coordinator for the United States Veteran Affairs.
Shannon had a generous heart. He would give the shirt off his back to help anyone. He loved helping veterans. He loved his many friends and large family, having always been surrounded by a group of each or both. He loved the outdoors; hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, jeep mudding, boating, floating, horseshoes, and wrestling.
He was a prankster, causing decades of laughter and memories among those lucky enough to have known him. He was an animal lover, so much so that his yellow lab Ruger joined him on his travels to the hereafter one day later. He loved his kids, sharing with them all he had and all he could pass on. Shannon loved his life partner and wife, whom he affectionately called “Turbo”.
Shannon was preceded in death by his mother Billie Ann Spencer, his cousin James Lain, his Uncle and Aunt Rod & Shirley Johnson, his Aunts Joan Spencer and Merilee Johnson, and his grandparents Bill and Ann Sanders and Pat and Oliver Spencer.
He is survived by his loving wife Candice Curriero Spencer, his children Kaitlin Jay Spencer and Jesse Lee Spencer (LB), his parents Charles J. and Janice Spencer, his sister Stacy Konkol (Josh) and their children Brayden, Zayne, Kaysen, and Jayce. He is also survived by his step sister Ashleigh Heimbach, his Aunt Jan Hanson Dell, Uncle Jay Howard, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family.
The service will be held at Helena First Assembly of God Church (2210 Dodge Ave., Helena) on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. with reception to immediately follow. The burial service will be at Fort Harrison on Monday, December 2nd at 2:00 p.m. Go to www.helenafuneralhome.com for more on Shannon and to leave condolences. Memorials in leiu of flowers should be sent to the Shannon “Shan” Spencer Memorial Fund for Veterans at Joining Community Forces.
“In Our Care”
PENDING
SCHWARZBACH, Evelyn V. “Evy”, age 98 of Helena passed away Thursday, November 28, 2019. Services are pending at this time and will be announced when they’re complete. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Evy.
MONDAY
JONES, Bonnie A., age 86 of East Helena passed away Saturday, November 23, 2019. A vigil will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 1st at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, December 2nd at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church 120 W. Riggs in East Helena. Burial will follow the Mass at St. Ann’s Cemetery. A reception will follow the graveside service in the fellowship hall of the church. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bonnie.
SPENCER, Shannon, age 48 of Helena passed away Sunday, November 24, 2019, A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 2, 2019 at Helena First Assembly of God Church, 2110 Dodge Ave in Helena. A reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall of the church. Burial with military honors will follow the reception at Montana State Veterans Cemetery. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Shannon.
TUESDAY
HAINES Sr., Howard E. “Tex”, age 98, of Helena, passed away November 25, 2019. Viewing will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday December 2, 2019 with a Vigil Service to follow at 6:00 p.m. at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 3rd at the Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N. Ewing St., with a reception to follow the Mass in the Brondel Center of the Cathedral. Burial with Military Honors will follow the reception at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Cathedral of Saint Helena Choir Scholarships 530 N. Ewing St., Helena, Montana 59601; Millville Army Air Field Museum, 1 Leddon Street, Millville Airport Millville NJ 08332; or American Legion Post 2, 3095 Villard Avenue, Helena, Montana 59601. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Tex.
FLANAGAN, Patricia Bernadette, age 90, of Helena, passed away Aug. 23, 2019, in Seattle. A memorial service celebrating Bernadette's life will be held at 12 p.m. Nov. 29 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road. A reception will follow in the OLV Faith Formation Center. Burial will follow the reception at Veterans Cemetary, Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, Bernadette requested donations be made to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
March 1, 1984 – Oct. 20, 2019
Abe was born on March 1, 1984 and was the sweetest baby boy. He grew up in Montana City and was at the same school from K-8. Upon graduation from Helena High in 2002, Abe became a wildland firefighter with Montana DNRC. He then joined a U.S. Forest Service Helitack crew and did a stint in Alaska with The Midnight Son’s Firefighting Hot Shot crew. He eventually met and married Marley in Idaho, and they were raising four beautiful kids: Addie, Grace, Charlie, and Thatcher. Ryan was an avid outdoorsman who loved fly fishing anytime, anywhere. He changed careers from firefighter to become a woodworking craftsman, completing many beautiful projects in Boise and McCall, Idaho. Ryan lost his battle with depression on October 20, 2019 and will forever be missed. He leaves behind his wife, Marley; children, Addie, Grace, Charlie, and Thatcher; his parents, Terri and Rick; his sister, Stephanie; and his best fly fishing brother-in-law, Sam, in addition to his mother-in-law, Susan (Alan), father-in-law, Ed (Lee); sisters-in-law Collin (Jeremy), Bryn (Zac); aunts, Cheri, Margie, Vicki; Uncle Davey; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial gathering will be held Sunday, December 1st, 10 am at Montana City VFD Station 1, 1192 Hwy 282, Montana City. Please bring your memories and stories to share. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Ryan’s memory go to Montana City VFD.
“In Our Care”
PENDING
SPENCER, Shannon, age 48, of Helena, passed away Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, Services are pending at this time and will be announced when they’re complete. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Shannon.
MONDAY
JONES, Bonnie A., age 86, of East Helena, passed away Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. A vigil will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2, at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church 120 W. Riggs in East Helena. Burial will follow the Mass at St. Ann’s Cemetery. A reception will follow the graveside service in the fellowship hall of the church. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bonnie.
TUESDAY
HAINES Sr., Howard E. “Tex,” age 98, of Helena, passed away Nov. 25, 2019. A Vigil Service is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N. Ewing St., with a reception to follow the Mass in the Brondel Center of the Cathedral. Burial with Military Honors will follow the reception at Resurrection Cemetery. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Tex.
“In Our Care”
PENDING
SPENCER, Shannon, age 48, of Helena, passed away Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, Services are pending at this time and will be announced when they’re complete. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Shannon.
MONDAY
JONES, Bonnie A., age 86, of East Helena, passed away Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. A vigil will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2, at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church 120 W. Riggs in East Helena. Burial will follow the Mass at St. Ann’s Cemetery. A reception will follow the graveside service in the fellowship hall of the church. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bonnie.
TUESDAY
HAINES Sr., Howard E. “Tex,” age 98, of Helena, passed away Nov. 25, 2019. A Vigil Service is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N. Ewing St., with a reception to follow the Mass in the Brondel Center of the Cathedral. Burial with Military Honors will follow the reception at Resurrection Cemetery. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Tex.
FLANAGAN, Patricia Bernadette, age 90, of Helena, passed away Aug. 23, 2019, in Seattle. A memorial service celebrating Bernadette's life will be held at 12 p.m. Nov. 29 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road. A reception will follow in the OLV Faith Formation Center. Burial will follow the reception at Veterans Cemetary, Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, Bernadette requested donations be made to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
June 17, 1967 – Nov. 20, 2019
On the morning of November 20th, Christie passed away in the home where she grew up. Christie died of complications from alcoholism and mental illness. She was 52 years old.
Christie Ellen List was born on June 17th, 1967, in Burlington, Vermont as the first child of her adoptive parents, Deanna Mae and William Dawson List.
Starting at a young age, Christie had a great love for horses. She was an exceptional horseback rider and won many blue ribbons during high school and then again after college in the state of Nevada. Monaco, Tiger, Kisentel, and Grace were her most beloved horses. She passed on her love of riding to her niece, Abigail and to her dear friend Melissa’s four girls.
Christie had many talents and everything she pursued she mastered. She was a beautiful violinist and singer, sharing her musical talents in her friends’ weddings. Christie graduated from Montana State University, focusing on Native American Studies and Political Science. She was an active member of the Chi Omega Sorority at MSU.
After college, Christie briefly lived in Seattle and Albuquerque. For several years, Christie lived in Reno, Nevada working for Manpower Temp Agency and Douglas County Schools. She had a brief marriage to Ron Sparks while living in Reno.
Once Christie moved back to Helena, she pursued work at the Holter Museum of Art and at the Stockgrower’s Association. Christie briefly remarried to Nathan Messer, who still resides in the area. Christie pursued an online degree from the University of Phoenix in addictions counseling. She would have been a great counselor, having helped various people with her wisdom and personal experience with alcohol addiction.
Christie had a passion for all living creatures. She had two dogs, Stinker and Oliver, who were the loves of her life. She left behind a darling Persian cat (a breed she had wanted since a little girl) named Poppy.
In addition to her pets, Christie loved her niece and nephews with all of her heart. They called her Aunt CC and she spoiled them, letting them get away with all sorts of shenanigans frowned upon by their parents. Family was incredibly important to Christie and she loved her family and pets so completely and unconditionally that sometimes she forgot to love herself.
Those who knew Christie thought the world of her. She was generous to a fault. Her sense of sarcasm rivaled some of the best comedians. Christie had a great memory for trivia, Trivial Pursuit being one of her favorite board games. She could be the life of the party. Her favorite season was Fall and Halloween her favorite holiday; however, she loved Christmas because of her faith, and her generosity was perfect for such a giving holiday.
Christie is survived by her father and mother, Dawson and Deanna List; brother, Chuck List (Corinne Dyke); sister, Andrea Eckerson (David) and their children Abigail, Logan, and Grant; friend and caretaker of Christie’s mom, Melissa Peltier (Russel) and their daughters.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to NAMI, the Humane Society, a local horse rescue, or a non-profit of your choice. Christie’s gravesite is to be in Forestvale Cemetery in Helena, Montana. A simple graveside service will take place December 11th at 2 p.m. with a potluck reception afterwards at the List residence. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Christie.
A special thank you to Helena’s First Responders, St. Peter’s Hospital Emergency Room Staff and Behavioral Health Unit Staff. You saw Christie a lot in the past months and we are forever grateful to you for your professionalism, patience, and kindness. The List family is especially appreciative to Wally, who always responded when he knew it was Christie’s address.
If you are wanting to take your own life, please call the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You matter. You are loved. You will be missed.
June 9, 1937 – Nov. 19, 2019
Dean W. Flanagan passed away peacefully with friends & family at his bedside, at Big Sky Care Center in Helena, MT on Nov. 19, 2019, at the age of 82.
Dean was born in Albert Lea Minnesota on June 9th 1937 to William George Flanagan and Fern Harriet (Hanson) Flanagan. He attended Albert Lea schools Grades 1 through 10th. As a boy, he worked in onion fields and an auto salvage yard for personal spending money.
Dean joined the U.S. Airforce in July of 1954. He went through basic training at Lackland A.F.B, and then, onto Radial Engine Specialist school at Sheppard Field in Texas. From there, he went to Eielson A.F.B Fair Banks, Alaska, to mechanic B-29 weather bombers. He received an honorable discharge from the military at Malmstrom A.F.B in Great Falls, MT. in 1958 where he was with the 29th Air Defense command.
Dean met Lola Jean Domer from Helena when he was still at Malmstrom, so when he was discharged, he moved to Helena where he went to work at Eddy’s cake factory on So. Park Ave. He then went to work at Glenny Texaco on 11th and Rodney Street. He married Lola Jean Domer in June of 1958. In May of 1959 Dean and Lola were blessed with a daughter Vivian Jean. Glenny opened a Chevron station on Main and E. Lyndale, and Dean moved with him. In the summer of 1959 he went to work for Barney Norwood until 1963 when he went to work for Peterson Lumber Co, as a yard man and truck driver. In November 1961 Dean and Lola were blessed with a second daughter Penelope Ann. In 1964 Dean worked for Helena taxi, and bought into a Chevron station on Lamborn & Prospect. Selling this out, he drove a bulk fuel truck for Wayne Hicks. In midyear 1964, Dean took over the Enco station at 11th and Roberts streets where he managed until 1969, when, in addition, he took over the Enco station on Prospect and Roberts streets. He operated both stations until 1972 when the fuel shortages forced closure of his and many other stations. He then drove truck over the road for 1 year for Blue Ribbon Foods.
In 1973 Dean went to work for the city of Helena, as a service and tire man. In 1978, Dean and Lola divorced, and in that same year, Dean met his soul mate, Karen VerSteegh. Dean was also promoted to night equipment operator on the City of Helena Street Dept. In 1980 he was promoted to City Street Forman. He married Karen and her two children in Feb 1988. In 1989, Dean held the temporary street supervisor position until Bill Michelson was hired. Dean retired from his street foreman job in in 1993.
He enjoyed his retirement working on his old cars and trucks, loving several generations of spoiled kitty cats. He loved spending time with his family and friends. Dean had a good gift of gab, and enjoyed meeting people and making new friends, he was generous and helped people whenever he could.
Dean is survived by his wife Karen; Daughters & spouses: Vivian & Chuck Allen of Columbia Falls, MT. and Penelope & Pete Quien of Whitefish, MT.; Karen’s children and spouses: Aaron & Michal Flanagan of Great Falls, MT, and Toni VerSteegh of Laramie, WY.; Grandchildren: Amanda, Joshua, Amber, and Eva; 2 great grandchildren; His sister & her spouse: Patricia & Jon Syverson of Albert Lea, Minnesota: and several nieces and nephews.
Dean was preceded in death by parents William G. and Fern H. Flanagan and his brother Michael Flanagan, of Albert Lea, Minnesota.
As per Dean’s wishes, a family celebration of life will take place sometime in the spring, instead of a funeral.
The family would like to express our thanks to Compasses Hospice, and Big Sky Care Center, for all their kindness and support trough-out Dean’s illness. Please send any memorials to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society.
March 16, 1937 – Nov. 20, 2019
On the evening of November 20, Marilyn passed away after a 2-month illness while being attended by family in her home in Helena, Mt. Marilyn was 82 years old. Marilyn was born March 16th, 1937 in Bozeman, MT. She was the second child and only daughter of Albert and Hattie Lea. On March 26th, 1954 she married the love of her life Elmer Osborne. Together they had 4 children Marilyn enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cross stich, and ceramics. She made many of her own gifts that anyone who received one from her they loved. She was on a bowling league. She loved playing cards with her friends and loved traveling with both family and friends. Marilyn also loved to cook and try new recipes. Marilyn is preceded in death by her Mother and Father Al and Hattie Lea. Her Grandparents, brother/sister in-laws. Close Friends Bob and Gene Anderson, Mary Ellen Milton, Dorothy Horne Marilyn is survived by her husband Elmer, Son Steve, Son John (Tammy), Daughter Jeanice (Ken), son Dennis, Grandson Buck (great granddaughters Bliss & Penelope) and Granddaughter Brittany. She is also survived by her brother Don, many brother in-laws, sister in-laws, nieces and nephews. A Funeral Service in memory of Marilyn will be held on Saturday, November 30th at 2:00 p.m., at the Radersburg Cemetery (Allow time for construction).
Dec. 5, 1937 – Nov. 21, 2019
Thomas William Lynch, age 81, passed away in Great Falls on November 21, 2019. A visitation will take place on Friday, November 29, 2019, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at O’Connor Funeral Home. The funeral will take place on Saturday, November 30, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at O’Connor Memorial Chapel with burial at Fort Harrison on Monday, December 2, 2019, at 10:00 a.m.
Tom was born on December 5, 1937, in the Bronx, NY, to William Thomas Lynch and Florence Rebecca Samsel. He joined the United States Army and served proudly for 23 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant on July 31, 1981. When stationed in Argyle, WI in 1958, he met the love of his life, Patricia Coffey. They were married for 50 years, until her passing on April 4, 2010. They had six children which they raised overseas in Germany, and stateside in Alabama, Maryland, New Jersey, and Montana. While stationed in Montana, they knew this is where they would call home.
Tom is survived by his children, Barbara Lynch of Cascade; Kathie (Bill) Lynch of Helena; Susan Lynch of Cut Bank, Patti (Casey) Ferrell of Mountain Home, ID; Lori (Taylor Henning) Lynch of Missoula, and Tom (Laura) Lynch, Jr. of Great Falls; sister, Florence Katherine (Arthur) of Bluffton, SC; 18 grandchildren;13 great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.
The family would like to thank the special, caring staff at Highgate Senior Living and Peace Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boys Town and/or Disabled American Veterans(DAV).
Condolences for the family may be shared at www.OConnorFuneralHome.com.
Forrest Shewmaker died on November 24, 2019, after 78 years of telling some of the corniest - yet well-timed - jokes. Forrest loved fishing, Home Depot, cussing, bowhunting, Corvettes, white socks with sandals, banana cream pie, his dog Molly, his wife Pat, his whole entire family, and John Wayne. Not necessarily in that order. He hated the Dallas Cowboys, Indian food, dirty cars, Dancing With The Stars, canoes and vegetables. Not necessarily in that order. Forrest would not want anyone to waste money on flowers. Instead, he would be tickled if you took a friend or loved one to Chili’s. Forrest believes they’re gonna need the cash now that their number one customer has moved on. Otherwise, he would hate the fuss, but would be honored, if small donations were made to Benefis Peace Hospice in Great Falls. Forrest and his family were showered with such extraordinary care there. A celebration of Forrest’s life will happen when the snow melts and will likely take place alongside a beautiful Montana river with a little bit of fishing, some storytelling, cold fried chicken, and plenty of warm Pepsi. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.
1952 – 2019
On Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Patricia Lynn (Vogl) Grose passed away after a courageous, six-year battle with cancer. Pat was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
Pat was born in 1952 in Lewistown, Montana, the fifth of seven children to Leo and Helen (Martin) Vogl. Pat attended school in Lewiston before moving to Helena with her family during her high school years. She graduated from Helena High School in 1970. She married Gary Grose in 1971, and they made their home first in Bozeman and then Helena, Montana. Pat and Gary had three children: son, Mike, and two daughters, Erin and Allison.
In the early 1970s, Pat and her sister Barbara owned a custom drapery business in Helena. Later, Pat attended Carroll College, receiving a sociology degree in 1985. She worked as the Executive Director for the YWCA in Helena and for the State of Montana before she and Gary moved their family to Oregon in 1989. She was hired at the State of Oregon and worked as a workforce development program manager for 20 years. She ended her career as the Executive Director for a local workforce program serving Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties.
As well as an accomplished professional career, Pat was an amazing seamstress, jewelry maker, and decorator; she especially had a passion for decorating and celebrating holidays. Pat loved to sew, and she created beautiful quilts. With an eye for detail and quality, she worked hard to create a beautiful home—designing, creating, and building projects with Gary. Pat loved to bake and was well known for her caramels, turtle brownies, and red velvet cake. She loved to travel and made many trips to Europe and Thailand with her dear friend, Sue Nebrija, and her sister Barbara. In addition to her love of baking cookies, Pat also enjoyed spending time telling stories and creating traditions with her two grandchildren.
Pat was preceded in death by her father, Leo Vogl, and older sister, Joann Vogl. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Gary; their three children, Mike Grose; Erin (Joe) Matot; Allison (Drew) Johnson; and grandchildren, Logan and Ashland. She is also survived by her mother, Helen Fallini; sisters, Kay Duncan, Betty Walker and Barbara Vogl; brothers, Tom Vogl and Ed Vogl; and dozens of nieces and nephews.
Lady Griz, you will be missed by so many. We love you.
A mass will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Church on Sunday, December 8th at 10:30 am.
FLANAGAN, Patricia Bernadette, age 90, of Helena, passed away Aug. 23, 2019, in Seattle. A memorial service celebrating Bernadette's life will be held at 12 p.m. Nov. 29 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road. A reception will follow in the OLV Faith Formation Center. Burial will follow the reception at Veterans Cemetary, Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, Bernadette requested donations be made to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
"In Our Care”
PENDING
BICKEL, Nancy, age 58, of Lincoln, passed away on Friday, Nov. 22, 2019. Services are pending at this time and will be announced once they're complete. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Nancy.
“In Our Care”
MONDAY
JONES, Bonnie A., age 86, of East Helena, passed away Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. A vigil will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2, at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church 120 W. Riggs in East Helena. Burial will follow the Mass at St. Ann’s Cemetery. A reception will follow the graveside service in the fellowship hall of the church. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Bonnie.
“In Our Care”
MONDAY
BLESSINGER, Irvin, age 98, of Helena, passed away Friday, Nov. 15. A memorial service celebrating Irv’s life will be held at 11 a.m. today, Nov. 25m at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow the reception at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, memorials are welcome to Hospice of St Peters, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601, Pad for Paws, P.O. Box 287, Helena, MT 59624, or the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Irv.
FLANAGAN, Patricia Bernadette, age 90, of Helena, passed away Aug. 23, 2019, in Seattle. A memorial service celebrating Bernadette's life will be held at 12 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road. A reception will follow in the OLV Faith Formation Center. Burial will follow the reception at Veterans Cemetary, Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, Bernadette requested donations be made to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
Pat was born in 1952 in Lewistown, Montana, the fifth of seven children to Leo and Helen (Martin) Vogl. Pat attended school in Lewiston before moving to Helena with her family during her high school years. She graduated from Helena High School in 1970.
She married Gary Grose in 1971, and they made their home first in Bozeman and then Helena, Montana. Pat and Gary had three children: son, Mike, and two daughters, Erin and Allison.
In the early 1970s, Pat and her sister Barbara owned a custom drapery business in Helena. Later, Pat attended Carroll College, receiving a sociology degree in 1985. She worked as the Executive Director for the YWCA in Helena and for the State of Montana before she and Gary moved their family to Oregon in 1989.
She was hired at the State of Oregon and worked as a workforce development program manager for 20 years. She ended her career as the Executive Director for a local workforce program serving Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties.
As well as an accomplished professional career, Pat was an amazing seamstress, jewelry maker, and decorator; she especially had a passion for decorating and celebrating holidays. Pat loved to sew, and she created beautiful quilts. With an eye for detail and quality, she worked hard to create a beautiful home—designing, creating, and building projects with Gary.
Pat loved to bake and was well known for her caramels, turtle brownies, and red velvet cake. She loved to travel and made many trips to Europe and Thailand with her dear friend, Sue Nebrija, and her sister Barbara. In addition to her love of baking cookies, Pat also enjoyed spending time telling stories and creating traditions with her two grandchildren.
Pat was preceded in death by her father, Leo Vogl, and older sister, Joann Vogl. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Gary; their three children, Mike Grose; Erin (Joe) Matot; Allison (Drew) Johnson; and grandchildren, Logan and Ashland. She is also survived by her mother, Helen Fallini; sisters, Kay Duncan, Betty Walker and Barbara Vogl; brothers, Tom Vogl and Ed Vogl; and dozens of nieces and nephews.
Lady Griz, you will be missed by so many. We love you.
A mass will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Church on Sunday, December 8th at 10:30 am.
Richard (Dick) Takara, the world renowned trophy elk hunter, passed away on October 26th, 2019 at the age of 90 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
He was born in Honolulu on June 25th, 1929 to Henry and Kathleen Takara. He was preceded in death by sister Millie, and brother Wesley.
Later in his life, Dick was cared for by his friend, Sylvia Sugimoto of Honolulu.
Dick worked in Salem, Oregon for the State in the Motor Vehicle Division.
He served in the armed forces in Korea and in Germany.
He went to college in Idaho, and played football in both Hawaii and Idaho.
Dick made a lot of good friends in Montana, especially Guy and Mary Jo Stoner, who thought of him as family. To Guy and Mary Jo’s children, Steve and Mikal, he was like an uncle. He was the kind of man who, if you met him, he was your friend.
Every year, Dick would come to Montana during hunting season to hunt with Guy every year until he was too old to traipse around in the mountains hunting for the “Great Wapiti!” He hunted with Guy at the family cabin in Minnehaha, at Doug Duncan’s cabin in Nelson, Mt, and at Jim Backstrom’s cabin in Elliston, Mt.
Guy and Dick went on a guided elk hunt one time and they had to ride horses to camp. Dick was pretty short, so he had to get on a stump or whatever to get on the horse. Of course, they had a good time and drank a “few” Rainiers.
One of Dick’s last hunts, (he just went along for the ride) was to Zortman, Montana. Guy had drawn an elk permit there. The hunt lasted twenty one days. I don’t think Dick thought it would be that long, but he was retired and Guy finally got his Elk. For Thanksgiving dinner, their entree’ was a can of Spam, as the Zortman Bar was closed. The Zortman Bar was usually where they would eat and drink beer (Rainier, of course).
Memories! Ah, what memories!
We love you!
ALOHA DICK
On the morning of November 18, 2019 Sharon Stewart Finney passed away at St. Joseph Medical in Polson, Montana following several years of failing health.
Sharon was born in Helena, Montana to John and Violet Stewart in 1943 the third of their children. She enjoyed early rock & roll, alpine and water skiing, travel, and mischief in general before graduating from Helena High School.
Sharon attended college at University of Montana in Missoula where she was a member of Angel Flight. She studied Radio & Television Broadcasting requiring theater classes where she met the love of her life, Wayne Finney.
After marrying, the young couple lived in New Mexico and then Texas for Wayne’s USAF pilot training where their daughter Shannon was born. Shortly after buying their first home in Great Falls, Montana, Sharon gave birth to her son, Jay.
Once the children started school Sharon became highly involved with the PTA. She became the state president, then a member of the national PTA board allowing her to visit many interesting cities across the country.
As an adult Sharon enjoyed travel, working in sales, hunting, fishing, shopping, vintage cars, cooking, and reading. After the children graduated from college and Wayne’s retirement from the service Sharon and Wayne moved to Somers, Montana for the next adventure owning and operating the Osprey Inn Bed and Breakfast; both Sharon and Wayne became real estate brokers in the Flathead Valley.
After 15 years of living on the northern shore of Flathead Lake the Finneys retired to Polson, Montana where Sharon lived for more than 15 years before her passing.
Sharon is survived by her husband Wayne, her daughter Shannon and her husband Todd, and her son Jay and his wife Patricia and their 2 children as well as numerous in-laws and nieces and nephews.
Sharon will be memorialized next summer. As an early supporter of Lakeside Library, Sharon can be best memorialized through donations to the Lakeside Library a 501 (c) 3 organization. The family requests no flowers please. The family also wishes to thank all who have shared their condolences and support for both Sharon & her family.
Messages of condolences can be shared with the family online at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.
Patricia Bernadette Flanagan, 90, died peacefully, Friday, August 23, 2019, in Seattle, WA, surrounded by her loved ones.
Bernadette was born in Kilmaley, Ennis, County Clare Ireland, February 28, 1929, to Nora and John Murphy and was the youngest of nine children.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, James Joseph Flanagan and her cherished foster daughter Adela (Charlie) Anderson; seven siblings Joe, J.J., Evie and Mick of Ireland; Mary of Camp Hill, PA; Beatrice of Long Island, NY; and Rita (Rev. Mother Bernadette) of Guernsey, Channel Isles.
She is survived by her children, Mary (Ralph) Taylor of Fredericksburg, VA; Ann (Ron) Peaslee of Helena; Jim (Judy) of Bluffton, SC; Theresa (Dan) Kjelland of Seattle, WA; Veronica (Craig) Adams of Tucson, AZ; Rita of Spokane, WA; Doug of Los Angeles, CA; Michael of Helena; and, David (Dani) of Seattle, WA. She is also survived by her sister, Evelyn O’Sullivan of London. She was the proud grandmother of thirteen: Jennifer (Brent) Koning and Jason (Kelsey) Peaslee; Jacob (Laura), Meaghan (Gordon) and Kristin (Sean) Kjelland; Emily (Josh) Gleisberg, Vince and Sean Adams; Jacky Flanagan; Elie, Eva and Stella Flanagan; and Mollie Taylor. She had four precious great grandchildren, Foster, Matilda and Ed Koning (with another on the way); and Clara Kjelland. She is also survived by nearly 40 nieces and nephews in Ireland, England, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held Friday, November 29, 2019 at 12:00 p.m at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. A reception will follow in the OLV Faith Formation Center. Burial will follow the reception at Veterans Cemetary, Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, Bernadette requested donations be made to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
Cylene Beth Wood, age 74, passed away on November 11, 2019 at St. Peter's Health Regional Hospital in Helena, Montana. Her illness was short. She had initially fallen and suffered a broken leg and soon after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
She was born September 26, 1945 in Davenport, Iowa to Elmo Ewing and Violet (McCollom) Ewing. She graduated from Davenport High School. She moved away following her high school years.
Cylene had several work experiences. She worked for a Wallpaper and Paint Store as a manger. She also was employed by the State of Montana.
Cylene is survived by her sister Nonie Mason and brother-in-law George Mason who live in Maryville, Tennessee. She has two nieces, one nephew and numerous cousins who live outside of Montana. She is survived by numerous friends who will miss her greatly. She was preceded in death by a husband and her only son Jason Jack Wood who passed away on January 2, 2014.
Cylene adopted a dachshund from the Animal Shelter, Ally. She had Ally for several years before her pet passed away of old age. Ally was a friendly, sweet Certified Therapy dog who Cylene adored. They could be seen walking Last Chance Gulch. Cylene loved going to Shodair Children's Hospital and local Nursing Homes to share her beloved pet.
Cylene attended Life Church. She was kind, Loving and had a fun personality. She loved playing games. She had numerous friends and attended various organizations and volunteered at the Animal Shelter. She had a beautiful singing voice. Her favorite performer was Elvis Presley and one of her favorite songs specifically performed by Elvis was "How Great Thou Art".
In her younger years she painted and made numerous crafty items. She loved NASCAR and her favorite driver was Dale Earnhardt Jr. She and her son Jason enjoyed watching car racing.
Cylene's end of life wishes were handled by Anderson, Stevenson, Wilke Funeral Home. There will not be a memorial service. Her wishes were to have her remains spread at the same location as her son and beloved pet Ally.
Memorial donations/ in lieu of cards and flowers may be made to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society, PO Box 4455, Helena, MT. 59604-4455. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Cylene.
