Fredric “Fred” Owen Lee, age 63 of Glendive, Montana passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at home surrounded by his family and friends.  Visitation will be held from 2:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M.  on Friday, December 15, 2017 at the Silha Funeral Home in Glendive.  Funeral services  will be  held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive with Pastor Will Johnson officiating.  Interment will follow in the Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive.  Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Fred was born on October 9, 1954 to James and Jean (Peterson) Lee in Foston, Minnesota. At the age of seven the family moved to Glendive where Fred was raised and educated. He graduated from Dawson County High School with the class of 1973. He went to work for George Rakes for a couple of years before starting his career with M.D.U. Resources (W.B.I.) which he continued until his retirement in 2009. Following retirement he was a consultant for KLJ and other oilfield businesses until December of 2013 when he went to work for Oaks Disposal Services where he was still employed at the time of his death.

Fred enjoyed hunting, fishing, working  and socializing with friends. Family was always his first priority, he enjoyed watching all of his grandchildren’s activities and spending time with them. He enjoyed coaching his own daughters when they were younger and playing softball for many years when he was younger.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, nephew Chad Lee, niece Melissa Lee, father in law Richard Mittlestadt, and step father Joe McPherson.

Fred is survived by his daughters, Tara (Ross) Oakland of Glendive, Tami Lee (Blake Trangmoe) of Glendive; step daughter Krista (Kyle) Berry of Glendive; grandchildren, Chad (Paige) Oakland and their children Oakleigh and Carver, Carson Oakland, Kailee Trangmoe, Landon Harrison, Dalton Oakland, Austin Berry, Kason Berry, and Asher Berry; brothers, Barry (Ellen) Lee of Roundup, Montana, Howard (Sharon) Lee of Menahga, Minnesota, Steve (Patty) Lee of Glendive, Scott (Colleen) Lee, Glendive, step brothers Mike (Jennifer) McPherson of Rexburg, Idaho, Craig (April) McPherson of Savage, Montana, step sisters Debbie (Jim) Kutzler of Glendive, Becky (Ross) Green of Savage; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at:  www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Mary M. Altner, age 94, of Glendive, Montana, passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at Glendive Medical Center in Glendive. Services are pending and will be announced when completed. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Mary Elizabeth Altner, age 94, of Glendive, passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at the Glendive Medical Center. 

Visitation was held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2017 at Silha Funeral Home in Glendive. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2017 at Silha Funeral Home in Glendive with Reverend Ruth McKenzie officiating. Interment will be held next spring in Barnesville Cemetery in Barnesville, Minn. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Mary was born on July, 9, 1923 in Barnesville, Minn. to parents George and Ella (Emerson) Metcalf. She was raised and educated in Barnesville. While at North Dakota State University Mary met the love of her life, Allan Altner. The two were married in Barnesville on December 21, 1946. They would have celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary next week. To this union two children were born: Thomas and Sally. Mary and Allan moved to Glendive in 1947 because of Allan’s work at M.D.U. Mary enjoyed working in her flower garden and liked volunteering at her church. She was an Eastern Star. But her most favorite activity was spending time with her family on summer trips to the cabin on Pelican Lake in Minnesota. 

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother and his wife.

Mary is survived by Allan Altner of Glendive; children, Thomas Altner of Worland, Wyo. and Sally (Michael) Ellestad of Brooklyn Park, Minn.; grandchildren, Matthew Altner of Dickinson, N.D., Nathan Altner of Laramie, Wyo. and Jill (John) Jarchow of New Richmond, Wis.; and one great grandchild, Ellea Jarchow.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

On June 11, many years gone by, a wee bonny bairn (a Scottish term), William Dewar Lindsay, was born to William Bell Lindsay and Phillis Murea (Symmonds) Lindsay in Chicago, Ill. He entered heaven on December 10, 2017 at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, N.D., following a three week illness, with his beloved wife and soulmate by his side.

Bill attended grade and high school in Evanston, Ill. He furthered his education at the University of Illinois, Bethel College in St. Paul, and Brown Institute in Minneapolis. Following college, he worked at several secular radio stations in Iowa, Michigan and New York. He returned to Minneapolis after his father’s death to help his mother who was in frail health. He worked at Dayton’s for ten years and was in the Army Reserve. Bill met his wife-to-be, Elizabeth “Bette” Anderson. They dated for seven years before marriage on November 22, 1979. Bette moved to Montana where Bill was employed at Christian Radio Station KGLE until retirement in 2007. They moved to Clearbrook, Minn. six years ago to be close to family.

Bill loved to hike in Makoshika State Park near Glendive. He was involved in jail and mission ministries in Minnesota and Montana. Other interests were photography, rock collecting and reading. He was proud of his Scottish heritage and along with wife Bette, visited Scotland twice where he had a cousin. They also enjoyed attending Scottish Festivals in Colorado and Montana. He was a member of Clan Lindsay Association.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Dick Anderson.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Corrinne Anderson; three nephews, Scott, Ryan and Jon Anderson; and four cousins.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Clearbrook, Minn. A visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the church beginning at noon. The Cease Family Funeral Home of Bagley assisted the family with arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers prefer donations to Samaritan’s Purse or Prison Fellowship.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints. Psalm 116:15

Messages of condolence may be sent to ceasefuneralhome.com.

William Wayne Szudera, age 80, of Havre, Mont. passed away on November 25, 2017 in Springfield, Mo. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glendive with Father Francis Schreiber as Celebrant. A Rosary Service will be held at 9:30 a.m. prior to the Funeral Mass. Following the Mass, a Rite of Committal will take place at Dawson County Cemetery. Silha Funeral Home of Beach, N.D. has been entrusted with the arrangements.

William “Bill” Paul Weidner, age 77, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2017 at the Eastern Montana Veteran’s Home in Glendive.  

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at the Silha Funeral Home in Glendive. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2017 in Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Theodore Edward Sell, age 88, of Glendive, passed away on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive with Pastor Avis Anderson officiating. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Ted was born on August 3, 1929 to Henry and Edna (Wilhelm) Sell in Glendive.  As a young child he lived on the family homestead nine miles east of Circle before they moved to the farm two miles east of Lindsay. Ted received his early education at the Lindsay School through eighth grade and continued his education at Dawson County High School in Glendive where he graduated with the class of 1947.  Following high school, Ted enlisted in the United States Navy where he served on the USS Chatterer AMS 40 doing minesweeper duties in Korea. After four years of service, Ted was given an honorable discharge and returned to Glendive where he went to work for the 1st National Bank as a teller. He later continued his education, graduating from the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wis. in 1970 and later the Senior Bank Officers School at Harvard in Boston, Mass. in 1978. Ted continued his banking career for thirty-five years until he retired in October of 1989 as Executive Vice President.  Ted began his next career as a real estate agent for Badlands Reality which he enjoyed for ten years when he retired for the last time.

Ted was united in marriage to Ardis Rufsvold on July 5, 1955 and to this union four children were born, this marriage later ended in divorce.  On October 11, 1987 Ted was united in marriage to Barbara Lee and they remained happily married for the next thirty years until the time of his passing.

Ted enjoyed gardening and sharing his harvest with his family and friends as well as fishing with them at their cabin in Fort Peck, Mont.  Ted loved his family and cherished the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. Ted was a member of the Elks, Jaycees, Lions, Toastmasters and had served on the Glendive Elementary School Board for twenty years.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents; nine brothers, Kenneth, Havard, Roy, Harold, Alfred, Winfred, Raymond, Duane and Paul; three sisters, Francis, Irene and Eunice; two step-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Ted is survived by his wife, Barbara of Glendive; three daughters, Greta (Eric) Beam of Billings and their children Megan and Mark, Geri (Pat) Cullinan of Glendive and their sons, Brian and Bryce, and Gwenna Peters of Billings and her daughters Katy and Pam; one son, Geoffery (Jackie) Sell of Pinedale, Wyo. and their children Gerald and Bobbi; two step-daughters, Sharon Meeds of Belle Plaine, Minn. and her son Kevin, and Karen (James) Sefton of Seward, Alaska and their daughter Kelley;  nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ted’s name are suggested to the Glendive Medical Center Home Care/Hospice.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Dale Duane Bergland passed peacefully on December 20, 2017 at Highgate Senior Living in Bozeman. 

Dale was born on June 29, 1932 in Hettinger, N.D., the only child of Alice and Erland Bergland. He lived an idyllic childhood on the family farm, surrounded by a loving family in a place he referred to as “home” until his death. Dale was an accomplished horseman and outstanding athlete. He and his dad shared pride in their “Bergland Herefords” and also raised Shetland ponies, many were given to family members and friends who share fond memories of their first pony from the Bergland herd.

Dale married Sherry Schjeldahl on August 22, 1953. They recently celebrated 64 years of this beautiful union.

Dale attended Dickinson State College, Black Hills State and then graduated with a degree in Agriculture from North Dakota State in 1955. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and later supported the local MSU Chapter.

Dale took his first job with the Montana Extension Service as a county agent in Miles City. He also served as agent in Broadus and Glendive and was well-respected in his field. Dale shared his expertise of agriculture with hundreds of farmers and ranchers. He spent countless hours judging fairs in Eastern Montana, attending 4-H camp and teaching his own kids the “right” way to train horses and raise animals.

During the early years of Dale and Sherry’s marriage, daughters Penny, Kristi and son, Jerry were born. Dale’s family of five spent a year in Bozeman, living in a tiny “monopoly house” at MSU, where he completed his graduate degree in Animal Science in 1964. After returning to Dawson County, Dale became area supervisor until 1978 and then moved back to Bozeman, serving in the same capacity until his retirement in 1990.

Dale was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, Elks Club, Sourdough Lion’s, M-Bar Investment Club, MSU and NDSU Alumni Associations and Valley View Golf Club. Dale was an unwavering fan of the Bobcats, except, of course, when they played the NDSU Bison.

Dale continually offered his help and support where needed. He volunteered at the hospital, delivered Meals on Wheels and served at the Bozeman Senior Center. Above all, he was a devoted family man. He was a constant figure at Belgrade events supporting his grandchildren, cheering them on in his quiet and humble way. He made many trips to Portland, Ore. to spend time with daughter Penny’s family and watch his grandsons play football. Dale shared his love of animals with his daughter Kristi and helped her raise five litters of Golden Retrievers. His favorite, Annie, was with him until the end.

Dale is preceded in death by his beloved son, Jerry, who died in 1976. 

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Sherry; daughters, Penny (Scott) Price of Portland and Kristi Bergland Ragar of Bozeman; his grandchildren, Taylor (Sara) and Connor Price of Portland, Ore. and Jeremy and Shaylee Ragar.

Memorial services will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Bozeman on Thursday, December 28 at 2 p.m. 

Memorials may be sent to: the Montana 4-H Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association of Montana (alz.org) or charity of your choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service. www.dokkennelson.com.

Frances Mae Scharff entered this world on March 31, 1937 in Glendive to John and Ila (Alexander) Scharff. The youngest of four, she joined sisters Mary and Zella and brother John.

Growing up in Glendive, Frannie attended Lincoln Elementary and Dawson County High School. In 1953, she married LeRoy Sevier and began raising their family of 2 boys and 2 girls while also beginning her career as a telephone operator at Mountain Bell. In 1976, she transferred to Helena where she met and married Jack Darfler in 1980, and they made their new home in Clancy, MT.

Frannie loved fishing, camping and traveling. She and Jack enjoyed the freedom of these activities after they retired in 1990. They also volunteered in the community and loved spending time with family, friends and neighbors.

A nurturing woman at heart, Frannie could always be counted on to feed stray and neighborhood animals (domestic and wild), and she won over the hearts of many of them. They would visit her regularly, knowing that she would be ready with a treat in hand. 

An avid lover of family history and tradition, Frannie held onto many treasures of the past and was always willing to share stories of her family to those who would listen. Throughout her life, Frannie had a wide circle of friends, many to whom she was a trusted and endeared confidant.

Frannie passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the Glendive Medical Center on the morning of December 25, 2017 at the age of 80.

Frannie is preceded by her parents; sisters, Mary and Zella; brother, John; husband, Jack Darfler; and grandson, Willie Cramer.

Frannie is survived by her sister-in-law, Kay Scharff; children, Arlett (George) Cicolani, Mike (Debbie) Sevier, Allan (Lois) Sevier, Lisa Cramer (John Stewart), John (Tami) Darfler, and Patti (Neil) Metzinger; grandchildren, Shawn (Kelly) Evans, Dustin (Traci) Evans, Darin (Cristi) Worley, Ashley Cramer, Taylor Sevier, Kami Sevier (Mikel Stevenson), Maleri Sevier, Deannedra Cicolani, Cody Sevier, Michaela Sevier and Destiny Darfler; thirteen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held on Friday, December 29 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Congregational Church in Glendive. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, December 30 at 2 p.m. also at the Congregational Church in Glendive. A graveside service will immediately follow at the Dawson County Cemetery.   Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com. 

Richard “Dick” Simonton, age 73 of Glendive, passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at his home in Glendive.

Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  on Monday, January 1, 2018 at the Silha Funeral Home in Glendive. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glendive with Father Francis Schreiber officiating. Rite of Committal will follow in the Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Dick was born on July 7, 1944 in Wahpeton, N.D. to Arnold and Marion (Benroth) Simonton. As a young child the family lived in Hankinson, N.D. before moving to Fargo, N.D., where Dick received his early education.  Early on in life, Dick had decided to spend his life as a priest, so he moved to Richardton, N.D. where he received his high school education at Assumption Abbey and graduated in 1962; once Dick discovered girls, however, he decided to serve the people. He continued his education at Dawson Community College in Glendive for two years before transferring to North Dakota State University in Fargo where he received a Bachelor’s of Science. After college, Dick still wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his life so he enlisted in the Peace Corps and spent the next two years in Ghana, Africa. Upon his return to the United States, Dick was in Missoula, Mont. and, on a whim, applied to the University of Montana School of Law and was accepted on-the-spot. Following his graduation, Dick moved to Glendive and started working for McDonough and Cox law offices where he later became a partner. Dick also served as the Dawson County Attorney for several years and had his own law practice before being appointed the District 7 Judge in Dawson County. During this time he also worked on several cases with the Montana Supreme Court. Dick formally retired in July of 2017 after 19 years of service, but continued working until November 2017 to finish his cases.

Dick enjoyed working, dedicating his time to practicing law and serving the people of eastern Montana. He was an avid baseball fan, always cheering for the New York Yankees. Some of his fondest memories were traveling with family and friends to Whidbey Island in Washington state and the summer vacations that they took as a family, which included several judicial conferences (some of their favorites).

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Connie Carpani (survived by John) and Mary Kay Shaver; two brothers-in-law, Bob McLain and Arnie Ames.

Dick is survived by his former wife and friend, LaNette Simonton of Glendive; their two sons, Eric (Jessica) Simonton of Billings and Mark Simonton of Seattle, Wash.; one brother, Jim (Karon) Simonton of Roosevelt, Utah; several in-laws; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Delmer Ray Senner went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 31, 2017, at the age of 88.

Delmer was born on the farm near Richey, Mont. on May 19, 1929, to Erhart and Lena (Albrecht) Senner. After graduating from Richey High School in 1947, Delmer married the love of his life, Helen Faye Crockett on September 24, 1949. They started to build their life together while Delmer started his lifelong passion of farming. Delmer and Faye were the proud parents of three beautiful children: Teddy (Bear) Whitmer of Bloomfield, Marty (Betty) Senner of Richey, and Paula (Ken) Marks of White Sulpher Springs.

Through the ups and downs of being a farmer, Delmer always found a way to put God and his family first. He loved being surrounded by all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, teaching them how to play “Pounce.” Throughout his life, music was very important to Delmer. His presence was always known in church when you heard his beautiful voice fill the air. As part of the men’s quartet at Bethlehem Mennonite Church, “Great is Thy Faithfulness” and “He touched Me” were two of his favorite hymns. He served as the chairman of the Bethlehem Mennonite Church Board and also volunteered for many Mennonite Disaster Service projects. Delmer also served on the elevator board for many years. Photography was always a passion of his, documenting the beauty of God’s handiwork in the landscape and the people around him. When the time came for Delmer to slow down on the farm, he and Faye enjoyed traveling to Florida and Arizona, stopping along the way to take in all the beautiful sights. To everyone who crossed paths with Delmer, he will be remembered as a gentle giant who always tried to pattern his life after the One who gave it. His humility and kindness touched so many.

Delmer was welcomed into Heaven’s gates by his father (Erhart) and mother (Lena); and his sister, Sally Frisinger.

Delmer will be greatly missed by his wife, Faye, his grandchildren, Diane (Rob) Kraft and their son Lane; James (Stacy) Whitmer and their boys Mason and Alex; Chandi (Joel) Robberstad and their children Corbyn, Aiden, Kaelan, and Gracie; Jennifer (Tom) Fatzinger and their kids Ian, Halle, and Isabelle; Courtney (Tren) Schriver and their daughter Addison; Charles (Kari) Marks and their kids Kellen and Claire; and Darren Marks.

A memorial service will be held in Delmer’s honor at the Bethlehem Mennonite Church on Thursday, January 4, 2018.

Memorials are suggested to the Eastern Montana Bible Camp.

Dennis D. Basta, age 81 of Lindsay, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2017 at his daughter’s home in Cheyenne, Wyo. with family by his side.

Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2018 at the Silha Funeral Home in Glendive. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at the Evangelical Church of North America in Glendive with Pastor David Steinbron officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Dennis (Denny) was born on January 28, 1936 in Glendive. He was the second of five boys born to Rudy and Agnes (Thompson) Basta.  His childhood was spent for a short period of time on the Basta homestead south of Lindsay, in North Dakota, and in Glendive. In the late 40’s the family purchased the farm where he resided at the time of his death. He attended several grade schools, graduating 8th grade from Clear Creek Rural School. Dennis graduated from Dawson County High School in 1953, where he set records in pole vaulting using a bamboo pole.

Dennis married Margaret Mickelson on November 18, 1956 in Glendive and they moved to San Francisco where Denny was serving in the Army at a Nike Missile Station, near Fort Cronkhite.  In the fall of 1957 Denny and Margaret moved to Savage where he farmed. While in Savage, Mike, Alan and Shannon, the first three of their seven children, were born.  In August of 1961 Denny and Margaret moved to the family farm south of Lindsay were they then had four more children: Ray, Jean, Joel and Cole. Dennis resided at the Lindsay farm until the time of his death. 

He loved being a farmer and loved being on the farm.  Over the years he raised sheep, pigs, cattle, wheat and other grains. He was very involved in the area, he was on the board of directors for several organizations including Clear Creek Hall Board, Farmers Union Oil Station in Lindsay, Dawson County Soil Conservation District, Dawson County Planning Board, and Dawson County Fair Board.

He loved his family and was very proud of them. He covered hundreds of miles following his kids and grandkids in their many sporting activities. His favorite things were family gatherings. He loved his community and lending a helping hand whenever needed. The Annual Union June picnic was an important part of his life. Dennis loved to dance and was a favorite partner of many. He also loved bowling and was on leagues for over 50 years.

In April of 2012 Dennis received a LVAD (left ventricular assist device), this was about two years after receiving chemo treatments for cancer. One of the drugs damaged his heart. With the LVAD Dennis was able to get back to the things he loved namely family, farming, dancing and bowling. The LVAD gave us extra time with this amazing man but we knew that time would not last forever.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Margaret of Lindsay; his seven children, Mike (D’Ann) Basta of Glendive, Alan (Liu) Basta of Austin, Texas, Shannon May of Glendive, Ray (Kris) Basta of Glendive, Jean Basta (Jim Temple) of Cheyenne, Wyo. and Glendive, Joel (Jamie) Basta of Glendive, and Cole (Shelly) Basta of Michigan City, Ind.; his brothers, Dave (Fran) Basta of Polson, Mont. and Tom (Marie) Basta of Beaverton, Ore.; brother-in-law, Fred Mickelson; 15 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and cousins.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws; two brothers, Don and Dan; and a brother-in-law and his three children.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at:  www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Funeral Liturgy for Dick Malcom, 72, of Baker, was at 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker with Father Philip Chinnappan celebrating. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Baker.

Visitation for Dick was held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker with a rosary and vigil service taking place at 6 p.m.

Dick Malcom passed away from a tragic horse accident at the family ranch north of Baker on Friday, December 29, 2017. 

Richard James “Dick” Malcom was born to Willard and Evelynn (Huber) Malcom on October 3, 1945 in Miles City. He attended the Preston Country School grades 1-5, Baker Elementary School grades 6-9, and graduated from Baker High School in 1963. Dick was proud of his perfect attendance throughout high school. Following graduation he drove truck for Dale Wyrick until he was called to serve in the U.S. Army in 1965. He was honored to serve his country until his discharge in 1967 and remained on Standby Reserve until 1971. Dick attended the International Farrier School, as well as a mechanic school in Colorado. For the next several years Dick enjoyed traveling the country shoeing horses and meeting people. Prior to returning back to the family ranch, he worked for Warner Johnson in the Lindsay area before leasing his own place nearby. 

Dick was introduced to the love of his life, Patty Thielen, at a dance in July of 1984. Dick and Patty found their forever dancing partners and were married that same year on November 24. With this union Dick gained his son, Chad Follmer.  

Over the years they worked side by side to continue building the legacy of the Malcom Family. Dick was extremely proud of Chad and was excited when he left the oilfield to be on the ranch full time. This dream was realized with the creation of the Malcom-Follmer Ranch. In December of 2006, Dick became Grampa to Chad’s twin boys, Chance and Chase. These boys were the light of his life.

Dick’s love of life and his family was apparent, as was his passion for his horses and his herd of cattle. He spent countless hours breaking and training horses. He was a kind, quiet soul who was known for the strength of his beliefs and his work ethics. He was a humble, respectful man. Dick made an impact on everyone who met him.

More than once, Dick made the statement “Why would I go on vacation when I can step out my front door and be on vacation.” His love for this life was beyond words and as he told his sister Lynnda, “I’m living my dream.” 

Dick was currently a member of Horse Creek Grazing Association and served as President for 31 years; Fallon County Weed Board for 27 years; American Legion Post 55 for 51 years; and Baker Rural Fire Department. 

Dick is survived by his wife, Patty; son, Chad; sister, Lynnda (Gary) Evans of Phoenix, Ariz.; Jim (Marynel) Malcom of Salmon, Idaho; and grandsons, Chance and Chase Follmer. He is also survived by all of Patty’s siblings and their spouses, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Evelynn; sister, Marilyn Perry; father and mother-in-law, Ambrose and LaVonne Thielen.

Charlene Rich, age 66, of Richey, formerly of Billings, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at the Billings Clinic in Billings.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 12, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 13th Street W., Billings, Mont.  Graveside services will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the Pioneer Cemetery in Jordan. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Jordan is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch or ALS Association.

Funeral services for Johnnie Johnston, age 93 of Poplar, Mont., are at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 12, 2018 at the Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Richey with Paul Sponheim officiating. Fulkerson-Stevenson Funeral Home of Sidney is entrusted with arrangements. Remembrances, condolences and pictures may be shared with the family at www.fulkersons.com. 

Suggested memorials to: Eastern Montana Bible Camp, Yellowstone Boys’ and Girls’ Ranch in Billings and Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Richey. 

Johnnie Johnston passed away at his home surrounded by his family on January 4, 2018. Johnnie was diagnosed with kidney cancer on November 20. 

Johnnie Cecil Johnston was born in Central City, Neb. on September 1, 1924 to Cecil and Katie Knels Johnston. At the age of five in 1929, Johnnie and his family arrived in Lambert on the immigrant train and established a home on the Retah Table area. Years later the family moved Northwest of Richey. Johnnie was needed on the family farm, so he quit school when he was a freshman.

Johnnie and Beverly (Gidley) Johnston were married on May 23, 1947, a day after Beverly graduated from High School. To this marriage, six children enhanced their lives. Johnnie and Beverly have lived north of Richey since 1949.

Johnnie served on the Grandview School Board in his early years where his four oldest children attended grade school. He wanted his children to get a good education, for 21 days during the winter of 1966 Johnnie took the four older kids on his John Deere tractor 9 miles to meet the school bus using the blade on the tractor to clear the road as he drove. After school he repeated the trip to collect his kids.

The Richland County Weed Board was very dear to Johnnie. He served on the board from 1959 to 2017. He was very active fighting the weeds. Johnnie received Weed Fighter of the Year several times and was proud of the awards. He was the oldest member in Montana. Johnnie served on the Farmers Elevator Board in Richey for many years.

Johnnie worked hard all of his life and expected the same from others. He also liked to have fun. Johnnie and Beverly enjoyed taking trips with friends and relatives. Trips were taken to Hawaii, Mexico and a Caribbean Cruise. The kids remember having fun times at Saco Hot Springs swimming when growing up. 

Johnnie saw big farm changes in his life from farming with horses to the big modern machinery. He loved swathing hay and harvest time. He also enjoyed feeding and tending to his cows or as he referred to them, his girls. They followed him like puppies and he loved that.

Johnnie never met a stranger, he considered everyone he met to be his friend. He loved visiting with everyone, often stopping them on his beloved John Deere Gator as he traveled locally. His Gator was another love, at times the back was filled with fencing supplies, feed for the cows or the spray container to spray the dreaded weeds as he drove along the country with his spurge glasses. Pheasants in the yard were always fed well during the winter months by Johnnie.

Pets were dear to Johnnie, he took in many dogs whose owners (his kids) couldn’t take care of them in town anymore. He could be seen with a dog in his pickup or Gator most of the time. His latest stray was a cat named Keven who was always getting in his way but Johnnie was always ready to pull his tail or scratch his ears in a loving way. Keven wanted to be with Johnnie in a chair or on his bed during the last couple weeks. 

Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were very important to Grandpa Johnnie and Grandpa Great, he loved their phone calls and visits. He loved to tease them and they teased right back.

Johnnie is survived by: his wife, Beverly; his children, Gary (Virginia), Larry (Connie), Connie Aasheim, Peggy (David) Vaira, Kevin (Shelly), and Kyle (Tammy);  19 grandchildren, Erin Ballard, Rob, Cory, Shane, Lori Langley, Kari Wong, Angi Candee, Heidi Vanlaningham, J.D. Aasheim, Ryan Aasheim, Jolene Geary, Jodi McWilliams, Jeff, Janel Monroe, Kacee, Meghan, Lexi, Hailey and Ben; 36 great-grandchildren and another due in March; brother, Ruben; sister, Ella Anderson; numerous nieces and nephews; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Katie Johnston; daughter-in-law, Janet Johnston; great-grandson, Tyler Langley; son-in-law, Daniel Aasheim; brothers, Lawrence, Eugene and Dave; sisters, Marjorie Ziegler and Helen Hoffman; and half-sister, Ruth Cooper.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to everyone who visited or called while Dad was in Billings Clinic Hospital and at the farm. Thank you to all who brought food and meals to the house over the past few weeks. Most of all your prayers were so appreciated.

Hilde F. Baker, age 88, formally of Billings, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Heart Of The Rockies Regional Medical Center.  

Mrs. Baker was born October 1, 1929 in Horn-Bad Meinberg, Germany to Erich and Emma (Faldorf) Mueller.

Mrs. Baker was proceeded in death by her parents; husband, Bob Lee Baker; sister, Erika McCoy; and grandson, Robert Richard Baker.  

She is survived by her son, Robert (Annette) Baker of Tulsa, Okla.; daughter, Susan (Bob) Morasko of Salida, Colo.; grandchildren, Brian (Maegan) Baker, Blair Baker and Michael (Megan) Morasko; great-grandchildren, Mark Baker, Marrisa Baker, Grayden Baker, Jamison Baker, Brenna Baker, Aria Baker, Jadis Baker and Mason Morasko.

Memorial services will be held at a later date in Glendive. 

Friends who desire may make memorial contributions to the Dawson Community College Foundation. Online condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.

Gladys Mullet Kauffman went to be with her Lord on January 9, 2018, surrounded by her children.  

She was born in eastern Montana on August 6, 1922, the sixth of nine children.  As a youth, she learned the value of community, hard work and contribution. She always saw what needed to be done and did it.

Growing up on the farm Mom spent many hours herding cattle with siblings and helping her father. Mom completed her first eight years of school at Morgan Creek and finished high school in Glendive. She excelled as a student and took her studies seriously.

After high school she helped her father on the farm and taught at two rural schools in eastern Montana.  Mom excelled at teaching and entertained her own children with stories of her early teaching days. Mom was an amazing story teller and entertained many with the stories she preserved through the years.

One of the most delightful gifts Mom leaves is the stories she collected through the years. Mom started keeping a journal at age eleven and managed to continue that through most of her life.  

In October of 1949 Mom married Morris Kauffman, and their union resulted in nine children. What they lacked in material wealth, they made up for in their devotion to their children. They raised their family in Glendive and the whole family was actively involved at the White Chapel Mennonite Church. The traditions Mom and Dad established set us on a good foundation for life. We ate meals together, memorizing various passages from the Bible, which we would practice before breakfast.  Mom was a master at making money stretch and regardless of how much money she had, she always put food on the table. There was always enough food for any additional guest that showed up and she opened her home with gracious hospitality. Mom was always there for us, in spite of juggling the task of raising nine children and being involved in church activities.  Her diaries give a vivid picture of the swirl of activity that she managed.  

Mom’s faith was the anchor in her life. Singing was a significant part of that faith and Mom encouraged all her children to sing from an early age. That love of music passes on through the generations. 

In the early 60’s, Mom realized many of the early pioneers who settled Eastern Montana were going to their graves with their stories.  She felt strongly that someone should get those stories recorded, and since there was no other, Mom, in spite of having nine children under the age of thirteen, took on that task. She located and interviewed early settlers, wrote their stories and contributed a column to the Ranger Review, which she continued through 1975. In 2006, son Kent insisted that Mom get the stories into a book. That project resulted in two volumes of stories with the same title as the original column, “As I Remember.”

In 1978 Mom and Dad moved to Bozeman so they could continue their own education. Dad was diagnosed with cancer shortly after they arrived in Bozeman and soon gave up his pursuit, while Mom continued on and graduated in 1981 from MSU with highest honors at age 61. She began her second round of teaching at Heritage Christian School in Bozeman.  She taught for a decade and was part of the evolution of that school.

In 1978 the family endured the loss of the oldest son, Linford, followed by Dad in the spring of 1984. Through all the losses and change, Mom maintained her faith and commitment to serving and supporting others, especially her children and grandchildren.  

Upon her retirement, Mom enjoyed traveling with her son Kent who took her around the world on numerous trips.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Menno and Ora (Chaney) Mullet,; her husband, Morris; her son, Linford; grandson, Taylor; five sisters and one brother.  

She is survived by children, Pam (Joel) Howard, Twila Kauffman, Vaughn Kauffman, Kent Kauffman, Merrill (Sharon) Kauffman, Vance (Mary) Kauffman, Valerie (Craig) Deeney, and Gaylene (Andy) Kerr. She is also survived by her sister, Eunice; and brother, Keith; fourteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and friends.

A memorial service is planned for Friday, January 26, 2 p.m. at the Evangelical Free Church in Bozeman.  Burial will be at the Red Top Cemetery in Bloomfield on Saturday, January 27 at 3 p.m.

If desired, contributions can be made to The Gideons International. 

On July 15, 1976, Roland Eugene Kauffman and Mary Deean Taylor gave life to a beautiful little girl named Shelby Dee Kauffman. Shelby was full of life and always turned heads whenever she walked into a room. Her friends and family knew every minute in her presence would be filled with laughter and joy. 

Shelby had a daughter named Paige in 1995 and quickly became her mother’s greatest joy. Shelby always wanted the best for Paige and knew she would excel in everything she did. She was so proud to teach her values like caring for the less fortunate, knowing how to love life, finding moments to laugh and be goofy, and to always say I love you. She instilled the strength and compassion necessary to succeed in life into her daughter, and loved to live through the accomplishments Paige made throughout her life’s journey. 

Shelby’s life came to an end on December 26, 2017, at the age of 41 in Bozeman. 

Shelby joins her mother, Deean Kauffman; her grandparents, Anne and Cliff Kauffman; and her grandparents, Vada and Wiley Taylor. 

She is survived by her daughter, Paige Kauffman; father, Roland (Rolly) Kauffman; brother, Shadd Kauffman; nephew, Levi Kauffman; great friend, Jim Walker; and beloved dog, Deuce Kauffman-Walker; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. 

A cremation memorial service has taken place on the family farm in Bloomfield. The remaining ashes are left with Paige as she remembers her mother’s free-spirited personality and continues to spread ashes in every new place she travels so Shelby can forever see the world.

Andrew “Andy” C. Schofield, age 95 of Glendive, formerly of Jordan, Mont., passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2018 at the Glendive Medical Center Extended Care with his daughter by his side.

Visitation will be held at 9 a.m. with funeral service to follow at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 22, 2018 at the First Congregational Church in Glendive, with Brother Guy Pontoriero officiating. Interment will be at 3 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2018 in the family lot in the Steve Fork Cemetery west of Jordan. Following the interment there will be a reception at 4:30 p.m. at the Summit Corral in Jordan and everyone is invited. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Andy was born in Scott City, Kan. to William and Augusta (Hebrew) Schofield on March 12, 1922, the eldest of six children. He was raised in the Scott City area, and graduated from Shallow City Consolidated High School in 1940. At the age of fourteen Andy began working as an irrigation farm laborer, which he continued beyond high school. During the off season, Andy decided to continue his education by attending a sheet metal school learning to become a riveter. This allowed him to work for Boeing and Beechcraft.  Every spring and summer he returned to the farm to work.  He continued this until 1946 when he vacationed in Montana and decided not to leave.  Later that year Andy met the love of his life, Elsie Mae Wheatcroft, and they were later married on April 9, 1952 in Hamilton, Mont.  In 1954, they returned to the  ranch at Steve Fork (Jordan). Less than a year later they welcomed their daughter, Andeen. They continued to farm and ranch until 1990, at which time they sold their ranch and moved to Glendive. This allowed them to be near their daughter and her family. Due to this move, Andy was able to strengthen his bond with Andeen and continued this until the time of his death.

Andy’s family was the center of his life. He cherished the time that he spent with his daughter and Bruce, but especially the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The stories he shared with loved ones will always be engraved in their hearts and memories. He had a great sense of humor and was known to pull pranks and tell jokes, though he was never mean about it. Andy enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.   He had a special place in his heart for animals, especially his cat, Dolly. Later in life he was able to spend time with his grandchildren watching sports, coin collecting, and talking about antiques.  Andy was well known for the agate jewelry that he made. He loved sharing his special gifts with many friends and family.

Andy started his journey as a Master Mason 72 years ago, beginning in Kansas and continuing in both Jordan and Glendive. He held positions as secretary, treasurer and Worshipful Master. In 2002 he was inducted into the Montana Masonic Hall of Fame, an honor he was very proud of. Andy was also a member of the Eastern Star and First Congregational Church in Glendive.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Elsie; all his brothers and sisters, James, Walter, Emma Alice, Viola and Vernon.

Andy is survived by his daughter, Andeen (Bruce) Raymond of Glendive; his grandson, Daniel (Jennifer) Raymond and their daughters Shayna and Callie Jean all of Lacey, Wash.; his granddaughter, Vicki (Mike) James of Glendive and their children Brendan (Silvana) James and their son Benjamin of Miles City, Connor and Mikah James both of Glendive; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Andy’s name are suggested to the First Congregational Church in Glendive, the Grandview Retirement Home in Glendive or The Masonic Lodge #148 in Jordan, Mont.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Louella Marie McCormick, age 98, of Lindsay, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at the Glendive Medical Center Extended Care in Glendive.  

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive with Pastor Will Johnson officiating. Interment will be in the Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Marie was born on July 17, 1919 to Linda and James A. Murphy in Shell Lake, Wis.  She and her two brothers were raised on the Murphy homestead south of Brockway, Mont. Marie grew up working hard doing farm and roadhouse chores. She received her grade school education in Brockway and her high school diploma in Terry, Mont. After graduation, she continued to work at home for a while. Then Marie moved to Billings where she worked at a bakery and attended beauty school. When a storm tore the homestead apart, she returned to help her brother. While at home, she met her future husband at one of the country dances she loved to attend.

Marie married Harvey Gilman McCormick on October 19, 1947 in Glendive. They resided on their farm/ranch north of Lindsay and raised six children. Gil passed away in 1974, and Marie continued to live on the farm until 2008 when she moved to Glendive.

Marie was an active member of Deer Creek Lutheran Church and Ladies Aide, Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Creek Homemakers Club, Lindsay Garden Club and the Lindsay Hall Association.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Phillip and Robert Murphy; and her husband, Gil.

Marie is survived by her six children, Patty (Terry) Struck of Billings, Mickee (Randy) Ebberson of Rapelje, Mont., John (Marla) McCormick of Lindsay, Larry (Carolyn) McCormick of Franktown, Colo., Al (Linda) McCormick of Billings and Karen (Dave) Campbell of Blue Ash, Ohio; also surviving are eleven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.