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Obituary
Archives click here For the Record...ObituariesRichard Dennis Couture
Born in St. Ignatius on March 2, 1933 to Joseph and Susie (Andrews) Couture, he was raised locally before joining the US Marine Corps and proudly serving from 1952 to 1955. He married Annette Reed in 1953 and they made their home in California before returning to the Crow Agency area where he worked for the BIA, St. Labre Indian School and at Pretty Eagle Catholic Church, and then retiring in 2002 and returning to his home in Elmo where enjoyed asking his councilman many things. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sisters Regina Matt and Mary Lefthand; brothers Roy and Tommy Couture and grandson Darius Couture. He leaves behind his wife Annette of Elmo; children Gary (Elsie) Couture and Richard (Ann) Couture both of Crow Agency, George (Annie) Couture of Pablo, Debbie (Martin) Passes of Garry Owen, Susie Crooked Arm of Elmo, Coleen Couture of Ronan, Ramona (Dean) Bearclaw of Pryor, Rhoda Couture of Pablo, Kateri Couture of Ronan, and Joshua Couture of Crow Agency; brother Albert (Barbara) Couture of Parshall, ND; sisters Rita Cannon of Big Arm, Judy Phillips of Pablo, Rhoda Whithorse of Pablo and Aggie Lefthand of Polson; aunt Helen Charlo of Elmo; grandchildren Ashley Couture, Jaime Fredericks, Cindy White Clay, Garrell, Rochelle and Lloyd Passes, Sharmyne, Roni LaForge; great-grandchildren Robbie, Richard and Sharisa who he helped raise; and many other grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins who he also held dear to his heart. A traditional wake began Saturday at the Elmo Hall with the Rosary being held on Sunday. A mass was held Monday with Fr. Charles Robinson, Celebrant. Interment followed in the Dayton Cemetery where military honors were presented. Josie Messing
She is survived by her parents John and Becky Messing and sister Kylee Messing all of Spokane Valley; grandparents Jean and the late Joe Ducharme and Wes and Maxine Messing; and aunts JoAnn Ducharme and Barbara Messing. Josie loved her friends and was a very generous, caring girl. She will be missed by all and always remain in our hearts. A funeral service was held at Ball & Dodd Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 10, 2009. Anthony
Cutfinger Born November 10, 1956 in Browning to Rosalie Sarceeman and Gilbert Cutfinger, Sr., he was raised in Montana and throughout Washington and the Northwest. He worked road construction and had made St. Ignatius and the Flathead Reservation his home for most of his adult life. Tony has had many obstacles he went through. He enjoyed taking his wife on road trips, especially through the mountains where they spent all their time camping, swimming, fishing and hunting, and picking huckleberries. He always picked wildflowers of all sorts and bought roses of all colors for her. Playing bingo was our time to meet new friends - with Angela and Michael. He always enjoyed eating frybread, steaks, French toast and ice cream when the opportunity presented itself. Our dog Casper he took on long walks, he loved doing yard work for anybody that needed help and also loved the holidays to decorate our home and yard, and everything had to be perfect. He enjoyed cutting and drying meat. Der and Hays tried to teach him a little Salish. He loved going to basketball games and baseball, but went to the NBA Basketball or the Griz in Missoula when it came or watched them faithfully on TV. His favorite pastime was spending time with his wife, kids, grandkids, brothers, uncles, cousins and friends. He will be missed by his wife, Casper, his-in-laws, kids, brothers, grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Marilyn; brothers Gabriel Cutfinger, Julian Guzman and Christopher Cutfinger; sisters Patsy BigSam, Jeanie Belcourt, Rosalyn Cutfinger and Anna Marie Cutfinger; aunts and uncles Marianne and Ed Costilla, Theresa Sarceeman DaBrea, Sally BigBeaver and Edwin “Redman” LittlePlume; niece Chloe Cutfinger and nephew Anthony “Tone’” Cutfinger. He leaves behind his wife Karen (Adams) Cutfinger of St. Ignatius; children Melvin “Champ” (Tamesha) Fisher of Helena, Gabriel Timentwa Cutfinger of Omak, WA and Tonya (Irving) Timentwa Cutfinger of Coulee Dam, WA, Nathan (Brianna) Cutfinger of Polson, Tiffany (Peter Aimsback, Jr.) Cutfinger and Anthony “TJ” Cutfinger, Jr. all of St. Ignatius, Brayden Cutfinger of Arlee, Angela and Michael Matt, Antoine and Kirby LaChance and Joshua (Stacey) Pepion all of St. Ignatius; brothers and sisters Alvin (Deana Wilson) Guzman of Lapwai, ID, Gilbert (Aleen Vesta) Cutfinger, Jr. of Lapwai, ID, Reuben (Tracy) Cutfinger of Polson, Rosanna Big Beaver Fisher, Rosemary Bautista and Keela (Joe) Smith - Cutfinger; aunts and uncles Kenneth Old Person, Earl Old Person, Earl Blackweasel, Maynard (Linda) Kickingwoman, Ruby Hall, Thomas Wall, Edith Old Person, Jessie Cutfinger, Ernie Cutfinger, Lulu Old Chief, Fred Old Chief, Joseph Old Chief, Jr., Windy Old Chief, Thomas Old Chief, Marlene Old Chief, Geraldine Old Chief, Roseanne Old Chief, Joanne Old Chief, and Deborah Old Chief; father-in-law Eneas (Julia) Adams; sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws Evelyn (Mike) Moran, Dale (Maxine) Adams, Delbert (Cherylann) Adams, David Adams, Derwin (Wendy) Adams, Darrell Adams, Debbie Adams and Nelson BigSam; grandchildren Cedrick, Mekya, Jayceon, Isimya, Gabriel, Alahna, Michael, Jesse, Isaiah, Isabella, Lauraya Zeyle Cutfinger, Uriah and Bryanna Steele, Isaiah, Josiah and Jordan Matt, Helen, Emmanuel and Alexis LaChance, Laney LaChance and Jurnie Pepion; close nieces and nephews Stacy Auld, Tara Cutfinger, Michelle Cutfinger, Jessica Cutfinger, Reuben Cutfinger,II., Paige Korodi, Brittiany Cutfinger, Carter Cutfinger, Brad BigSam, Debbie BigSam, Brian BigSam, Gwen BigSam, Ellen BigSam, LaToya BigSam, Meggan Fisher, Michael and Mitchell Guzman, Becky and Danny Belcourt; close friends Chad Russell, Bruce BigSam and Paul BigSam as well as his loyal sidekick Ronnie “Hays” Lumpry and many other relatives from the Blood Reserve, Blackfeet and Flathead Nations. A wake began Thursday evening at the Longhouse in St Ignatius with Rosary being recited on Friday in the Longhouse. Wake closing was Saturday in the Longhouse with Mass following in the St. Ignatius Catholic Mission. As per his request cremation will follow the Mass. Juanita
M. Jacobson
Raised in Arlee, she went on to become a nurse and traveled many places in Montana before returning to the Ronan area about 20 years ago. Juanita had a great love for her family and friends. To Juanita no one was considered a stranger. Everyone was always greeted with a warm welcome. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, visiting friends and family. She enjoyed sitting around her kitchen table drinking a cool one. She was truly loved by us all and will be greatly missed by all. A proud member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe, she was preceded in death by her sister Jeannie Irvine and parents Henry Matt and Mary Christine Gingras. She is survived by her children Yvonne Hanic and Daniel Hanic both of Belle Fourche, SD.; Diana Taylor of Ronan; Donna Adams of Butte; Jimmy Pierce of Ronan; Dennis Pierce of Ronan and Mary Rudd of Ronan; 18 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; and her siblings Carol Finley of Ronan; Jim Finley Wonder of Ronan; Jan Michel of Pablo; Patty Grandchamp of Hayes; Linda Vandiver of Salt Lake City; Barb French of Lincoln; Karen Little of Pablo; Willow Diaz of Hot Springs; Christine Wingender of Hot Springs; Pete and Randy Windgender both of Waldo, Ohio; and Richard and Carol Matt both of Sacramento as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A traditional wake began Tuesday at the Longhouse in St. Ignatius in the Longhouse. Wake closing began Thursday in the Longhouse and Mass followed at the St. Ignatius Catholic Mission. Thomas
“Bearhead” Swaney
Bearhead was born in St. Ignatius on April 16, 1931, the youngest of seven children born to James “J. D.” Swaney and Mary Catherine McDonald. He was raised in Dixon and he was known to proudly proclaim that he “graduated 4th in his class” (Dixon High School only had four graduates in 1950). After graduation Bearhead enlisted in the military and served in the Air Force during the Korean conflict from 1950 to 1954. Upon his return home he attended college at what was then Western Montana College in Dillon. He majored in English and anyone who knew him knew how loquacious he was and how much he loved “the King’s English” as he often referred to it. While he was in college he met Dorene Dupuis and the two were married in 1958. With two children in diapers and a third one on the way, Bearhead fell six credits short of graduating but instilled the importance of education in his children, three of whom went on to earn college degrees. Bearhead and Dorene divorced in 1979 but in later years maintained a friendly relationship. Bearhead went to work for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in 1960, serving as the Tribal Treasurer. He then worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, including a brief stay at Crow Agency, Montana and Riverside, California, and then returned home for good in 1968. At that time along with his good friend the late Dave Harriman he began working toward what would become one of his greatest legacies, that of protecting and preserving the natural resources of the Flathead Reservation. Through those early efforts he met Dennis Villegas and Archie Carpentier, both of whom forever after called him Dad. In the 1970’s Bearhead’s life took many paths and dramatic turns. He and Wayne Hamel established “Ram’s Horn Post and Pole” on his property at Post Creek and the tribal government also established a game bird facility (“the Bird Farm”) and bought a herd of elk that were housed on a portion of the property. In 1973 he lost his lifelong best friend Wayne Hamel but remained close to the rest of the family for the remainder of his life. Bearhead was one of the most active and outspoken tribal leaders of the day. He served two terms on the Tribal Council, including a stint as Tribal Chairman. He was well known for his fiery disposition and blunt nature, and he was an unrelenting advocate and defender of tribal sovereignty and continued to work to preserve the natural environment of the reservation. He advocated for protection of the South Fork of the Jocko, for wilderness designation for the Mission Mountains, and helped establish one of the first voluntarily adopted Class I airsheds in the nation over the Flathead Reservation. He also directed the Air Quality program during its infancy. He was staunchly opposed to several efforts to locate additional dams on the lower Flathead River, and led numerous float trips to raise awareness of the issue. In part for these and other efforts, in 1979 he received a national conservation award from the American Motors Corporation. During this time he also helped formalize the planning committee for the Arlee Celebration, and in part through these efforts he developed a close relationship with Doug Allard (who always claimed he was “the younger and better looking of the two”). In the 1980’s Bearhead’s life took on new directions as he worked in the field of health care, including directing the Tribe’s Health Department. He found ways to incorporate his beliefs into programs aimed at involving young people in natural resource settings as a way to cope with addiction and alcohol. He became a grandfather, and though he tried hard to not enjoy it, we knew that he secretly did. He began to take more time to enjoy the fruits of his labor in resource protection by his pursuit of hunting, fishing and camping. He took many enjoyable trips to the mountains with Karen and Ray Hale, and with Bob “Big Darlin” and Mary Clairmont. Bearhead retired from service to the tribal government in 1997 and seamlessly transitioned into duck hunting, ice fishing and watching any Indian boys’ high school basketball team he could in the winter, and then to golf and more fishing in the summer. At that time he became closer to Bear and Erma Malatare and their family. He also spent more time at his property at Post Creek in various and sundry pursuit of farming and ranching. He would say “it took 70 years for the Dawes Act to work on me, but I’m finally becoming a farmer”, and if someone was looking for him he would say “I’m out standing in my field”. Anyone who saw him at the “Bird Farm” often would wonder exactly what he was doing out in that field. In between arguments with Doug Allard and golf with Gene “Cousin Snooks” Sorrell he hunted and fished with Eddie Ivanoff, Bob Marsenich, Fred Steele, Ray Ochoa and whoever else was brave enough to tag along. Bearhead left a lasting legacy, not only on this reservation but in Indian Country nationwide. He was preceded in death by his brothers and his grandson Thomas Lyles. He is survived by his oldest daughter Kim Swaney and grandchildren Jamie Dickson and Ray Adams; his middle daughter Patty Stevens and her husband Willie and grandchildren Joanna Phillips and Joe Stevens; youngest daughter Ruth Swaney and grandchildren Marianne and Catherine Addison and James Carpentier II; and son Bill Swaney and Dawn Thomas and grandchildren Kyle Thomas, Kale Gardner and Kayla Dix. He also is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their children, and by eight great-grandchildren and one on the way in June. A wake and visitation began Thursday night at the home of Patty and Willie in St. Ignatius. The wake closing was Saturday at the St. Ignatius Community Center, with burial with military honors followed at the Decker Family Cemetery near Mission Dam. Pall bearers were Ron Swaney (“Rambo”), Fred Steele, Bob Marsenich (“Bobo”), Eddie Ivanoff, Ernie Moran (“Turnip Farmer”), Austin Moran (“the Little Turnip Farmer”), John “Bear” Malatare, and John Malatare (“Johnny Appleseed”). Honorary pall bearers were Doug Allard, Gene Sorrell, Charles “Chuck” Tellier, Joe McDonald, and Larry “Big Sky” Anderson. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to the Summer Theatre Fund, c/o Arlee Community Development Corporation, P. O. Box 452, Arlee MT 59821. Lorene
P. Farrell
Lorene attended grade and high school in Polson, graduating in 1933. Following high school she worked for Dr. P.C. Noble and during this period sang in many local choir groups. On August 8, 1940, she married Thomas A. Farrell, a high school classmate, in Polson. The couple lived at Kerr Dam, where Tom was employed, until 1942 when Tom enlisted in the U.S. Army. During the time her husband was overseas in the Philippines, she lived with her uncle, Claude Miller in Los Angeles, CA where her first son was born. At the conclusion of WWII, Lorene and Tom returned to Kerr Dam where Tom was once again employed. Lorene went to work for Dr. Tanglen. She continued singing in Polson city choirs and sang in the summer Show Boat productions. In 1964, Lorene went to work for Sheneman’s Clothing Store (First Resort) on Main Street. She continued working there until the early 1980’s when she retired. Lorene has been an active member of the Polson Christian Church since the 1920’s, sang in the church choir and participated in numerous church activities. She also did volunteer work at the Polson Country Store. She loved working in her garden, cultivating beautiful roses and caring for all of her cats. Husband Tom preceded Lorene in death in 1985. She is survived by brother Harold Steese of San Diego, CA; sister Winifred Scott of San Lorenzo, CA; sons Thomas J. Farrell (Dianne) of Polson; Richard L. Farrell (Sharon) of Boise, and daughter Carol Jo Farrell of Polson; and four grandsons and four great-grandchildren. She was a dedicated and nurturing mother, who was very proud of her family and received an abundance of blessings in return. In lieu of flowers, memorials on behalf of Lorene may be made to the Heritage of Faith Christian Church (John Payne, pastor), the Polson Humane Society or the Polson Senior Citizens Center. A memorial service for Lorene will be held at the Heritage of Faith Christian Church on June 13, 2009 at 11 AM. Condolences to the family can be made at www.groganfuneralhome.com. Molly
Marie Barnett
She was born in Havre on April 3, 1978 and raised in both Ronan and Seattle, WA. where she graduated from Kennedy High School, class of 1996. As a child Molly was active in softball, Girl Scouts and developed a love of traveling. Amongst her favorite trips were trips to London, Southeast Asia and Brazil. Her curiosity and friendly disposition resulted in a large group of friends not only in Seattle and Montana but around the world. Her interests were as varied and numerous as her friends, including a love of Reggae music, animals, the outdoors, reading, making people laugh and Hawaiian shirts. Molly is survived by mother Carlene Engstrom and her husband Dale of Polson; her father Bill Barnett and his wife Rusty of Spokane WA.; brothers Micah (Lisiane) and Casey (Srey Nin); grandfather William Barnett; her partner Joy Ellis; and numerous friends and relatives. She is preceded in death by her cat Froggy and her grandmothers Bernice Bryant Clairmont and Trudy Barnett. A memorial service was held at the Polson Senior Indian Center on Sunday May 25, 2009. Internment was at Ronan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made in her name to the SKC general scholarship fund. “Hit me with music because when the music hits, you feel no pain.” B.Marley Corinne
A. (Clairmont) Couture
Corinne was descendant of the Salish and Kootenai Tribes and was a member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Cree of North Dakota. She was born on Sept. 21, 1963 in Los Angeles, CA to Robert and Mary (Azure) Clairmont; she was raised in California and in the Polson area. She had worked as a flagger, for Jore Corporation and as an over-the-road truck driver and saw the country from coast to coast. Corinne and Rodney Couture were married in 2003 and made their home in Pablo where she enjoyed the outdoors, whether it was fishing, hunting and camping and all knew her as Rod’s special “Hoochie Mama”. She also enjoyed the ocean and was fascinated by whales. She was preceded in death by her father and cousins “Gus” and “Porge”. She is survived by her husband Rod and his two sons Randy and Jacob of Pablo; her mother Mary Clairmont Jessen and her husband Dick Jessen of Ronan; sister Carla and brothers Bob, Steve and Jim Clairmont; mother-in-law Judy Phillips; sister-in-laws Arnell Phillips and Rita Wolf and a niece Daffney who held a special place in her heart, as well several nieces, nephews and cousins. A wake began Saturday at Foster Funeral Home in St. Ignatius with the Rosary being recited on Sunday. Wake closing was on Monday in the Chapel with funeral services at the Assembly of God Church in Ronan with Pastor Dean Buffalo officiating. John
William Browne
Born in Montana to Thomas Browne and Josephine Marion Browne on January 8, 1921, John, whose ancestry was Irish, French and Native American, had fond memories of the time he spent on his great-grandparents’ ranch in Polson. His great-grandmother spoke English, as well as three or more tribal languages. He cherished the times when she would build a bonfire and tell stories, which always began with, ‘A long, long time ago.’ His great-grandfather took John on a cattle drive, which was a great adventure for him. John was proud of his Native American heritage and when, as a child, he was asked what part of him was Indian, he would reply, ‘The best part.’ After graduating from school in Polson, John had various jobs, until he was hired by the Border Patrol. He then volunteered for the Air Force, where he remained until May 1946, when he was discharged at the end of the war. A few years ago, the Confederated Tribes of Salish and Kootenai honored John as one of the few surviving tribal veterans of World War II by presenting him with a beautiful buffalo print blanket specially designed for the Native American veterans. It was during his service in the military that he met and later married his wife, Almarene. They were married February 24, 1946. They began their marriage in Oceanside, California, where John returned to his position in the Border Patrol. He was soon made an investigator for the Immigration and Naturalization Service. He was transferred to Los Angeles and then to San Francisco. John and Almarene spent the last 53 years living in Belmont, California. John is survived by his wife of 63 years; his son, John Timothy Browne of Redondo Beach; his daughter, Ann Fox, who lives in London, England with her husband, Christopher Fox; two grandchildren, Paul and Abigail Fox and a niece and nephew, Linda Memmett and Richard Browne. He was pre-deceased by a son, Thomas Newton Browne, who died in infancy. John was interred at Skylawn Cemetery in a private family service on Friday, May 22, 2009. Mary
Maass
She was the second of eight children born to George and Mary Morris in Belt on September 12, 1911. She began her grade school education at Belt and finished at Augusta. In 1924 the family moved to a farm on the Fairfield Bench, located midway between Choteau and Augusta. She attended Teton County High School in Choteau, graduating in 1929 with a two-year teaching certificate. Her teaching career began in a one room rural school near Dutton. Here she taught for four years, attending summer sessions in Dillon and Missoula University to update her teaching credentials. In 1934, she married Karl Maass and they made their home in Great Falls for several years. Their three children were born there. In 1945, they moved to the Mission Valley and settled on a 120-acre farm west of Charlo. They raised clover seed, sugar beets and potatoes and operated a small dairy. After the death of her husband in 1954, Mary renewed her teacher’s certificate and resumed teaching. She taught one year in the Charlo elementary school and 22 years in the St. Ignatius Elementary, retiring in 1978. She spent her early retirement years traveling to various places in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and the States. In her later retirement years she did volunteer work at the St. Ignatius Public Library, grade school and the Senior Citizens Center. She was a member of the Leon Community Club, of the Ronan Faith Lutheran Church and a 35-year member of delta Kappa Gamma International Society and was involved in many of their activities. Her hobbies included reading, sewing, crossword puzzles, crocheting, quilting, bowling and spoiling "her grand and great grandchildren." Beside her husband she was preceded by her parents, three brothers and one sister. She is survived by her two sons, Karl of Missoula and George (Joyce) of Corvallis; daughter Marilyn (George) Broadwater of Missoula; sister-in-law Emily of Riverside, CA; brother Arnold (Phyllis) of Portland, OR; two sisters Ruth Morris and Edna Minckler both of Great Falls; nine grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service has tentatively been scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 1 p.m. in the Faith Lutheran Church in Ronan with Pastor Rand Drollman officiating. Donations in her honor may be given to St. Ignatius Senior Center, Leon Community Club or Ronan Faith Lutheran Church. Debra
A. Bouma
She was born in San Diego, California but found her home here in Dixon. She was an angel who testified of Christ even on death’s door. Her loving spirit lives on with her six children and fifteen grandbabies. Her precious loving nature will be greatly missed by all that were blessed to have known her. Lance
Martin Demarais (Fyant)
Raised in Pablo by his parents Melody and Louis Fyant, he attended school in Ronan and Two Eagle River School where he made many friends. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, especially fishing with friends. Lance was a kind, hard working man most recently employed at American Truss. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Ernest Martin Demarais of Malta and many other relatives on both sides. He is survived by his parents Melody and Louis Fyant; his love Rosie Gurule; brother Louie; as well as a large extended family and all his friends. Lance was buried at Jocko Cemetery in Arlee. Beverly
Doraine Morigeau
On August 5, 1950, Bev married Elmer "Sonny" Morigeau, Jr. and together they raised five children of their own and provided a home to numerous others. Bev was best known for all her leadership activities with youth. These included working for Dixon High and Two Eagle River Schools, Inter-Tribal Youth Practicum, Junior Tribal Council, and Summer Youth Employment. Activities she loved included bowling, softball, ice skating, dance skating, roller skating, powwows, traveling to workshops/conferences and attending all her children’s activities and sporting events. She is survived by her husband Sonny and children Doug (Cheryl), Jim (Marlene), John (Charlotte) all of Dixon; Vicki Morigeau (David Velarde) of Dulcy, NM ; Eileen (Thaddeus) Marion of Great Lakes, IL; and Annie Clairmont of Polson. She has 24 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and a sister Carol (Ken) Williams of Superior. She is preceded in death by an infant daughter Linda, her parents Warren and Mavis, and a grandchild Elijah Alexander. Services were held at the Longhouse in St. Ignatius on Saturday, May 2 and burial followed at the family plot in Dixon. Jayse
Antoine Joseph
Jayse was welcomed into this world on September 8, 2007 in Deer River, Minnesota, by his parents Rosanne D. Joseph and Justin (Bellanger) both of Deer River and Douglas Kingbird, Jr. He loved to spend time at grandma’s house playing with his cousins and friends. Jayse is preceded in death by great-grandparents Nancy and Leonard Joseph of Elmo and George and Maxine Partridge of Red Lake, Minnesota. Jayse is survived by his parents and brother Javel Joseph; grandparents Desmond L. Joseph of Pablo and Candace Partridge-Gotchie of Red Lake; and Ramona Smith and Douglas Kingbird, Sr.; uncles Ryan, George and Andrew Gotchie all of Red Lake; Marcus and Desi Joseph, Jr., both of Arlee; aunties Lanette Joseph, Rozlyn Joseph, and Marty (Lakota) Fiddler, all of Arlee. Funeral services were held at the Community Center in Bena, Monday, May 4. Cease Family Funeral Home of Bemidji, Minnesota, was in charge of funeral arrangements. Ezra
James Farmer
For the short time he was in this world he brought us so much joy to our hearts, he gave us so many loving memories that we will never forget. He was preceded in death by his uncle Lakota V. Farmer; cousin BJ Gardipe; great-great grandfather Thomas M. Pablo; great-great grandmother Laura Pierce; great-great grandfather Thomas E. Pierce, Sr.; cousin Terje Pablo; great-great grandfather Bud farmer; and great-great grandmother Ladean Peak. He left behind his loving mother Lakita R. Farmer; grandmother Theresa D. Pierce; grandfather Rodney Grund; great-grandparents Thomas and Mildred Pierce and Keith and Connie Farmer; aunts Rochelle L. Selfors and Sierra J. Nafziger; great-great grandmothers Vida J. Pablo and Virginia Farmer; great uncle Wade Pierce and great aunts Anita R. Pierce and Lisa Johnson and many, many cousins. The wake was held at the family home in Pablo with graveside services held Tuesday at the Ronan Cemetery. Laurina
Trahan Orr Wallace
She was born in St. Ignatius to Albert Luke Trahan and Philomene Ducharme Trahan on October 9, 1929. She grew up in St. Ignatius and married Leroy Charles Orr on November 30, 1946. They had nine children together but later divorced. She had two more children by Robert Bradbury. Laurina is survived by her children: Bev (Dewey) Richards of Pablo; Dan (Alexis) Orr of Warren, OR; Sue (Chris) Olson of Polson; Bobbie Orr of Acworth, GA; Cyndy (Vern) Clairmont of Ronan; Tedd (Tammy) Orr and Gordon (Trish) Orr of Three Forks; Tina Orr of Billings; Teri (Mike) Aldrich and Laurel (Chuck) Bulson of Helena. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Justin Borders, Alyssia Lokken, Joshua Orr, Brenda Steiner, Anna Olson, Shanna Depner, Jason and Jeff Clairmont, Amanda Fouty, James Orr, Ashley Young, Teddy Rae Orr, Niki Balbach, Brad Orr, Shienne Spatzierath, Tyler Orr, Jeremy Aldrich and Michelle Orr; her great grandchildren Kylee Lokken, Kylie Mortenson, Madyson Lokken, James Steiner, Jr., Ashley Steiner, Gracie Waterman, Nika Waterman, Keston Depner, Cooper and Addison Clairmont, Mason and Asyln Fouty, Kodie and Hunter Bailey, Jayce Olsen, Tycee McVicker, Lilyana Orr and Amaya Valdez; her sisters Marie Cowan, Eileen Quist and Theresa Morigeau and brother Hank Trahan. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Lyman "Luke" Trahan and Sidney Trahan and sister, Theresa "Tessa" Shourds, son Curtis Bradbury and grandson Michael Terrence Orr. Laurina will be cremated and her ashes placed with her mother, Philomene Trahan and son, Curtis Bradbury in St. Ignatius. A memorial will be planned at a later date. K&L Mortuaries & Crematory of Three Forks assisted with arrangements. Steven
James "Eagleskin" Bigcrane, Sr.
He is survived by his loving companion, Venita Lozeau Wall; his children Charlyn (Brian) Chapman and Steven "Woody" Bigcrane, Jr; brothers Roy, Art, Lester, James and Ed and sister Arlene, all of Ronan and sister Ellen Rose Pretty On Top of Crow Agency. Wake services began at the Longhouse Sunday evening. Rosary services were Monday at with funeral services on Tuesday. His resting place is at Snyelmn Sntmtmne. Mary
‘Virginia’ Mullin
She was born to Annie Charlo Vanderburg and Samuel McDougall near Perma on March 24, 1927. Her grandmother, Cecilia Charlo Vanderburg, raised her along with her three younger sisters. In 1954, when her grandmother passed, she took in her late sister’s children, Harold and Cheryl Badroad Bart, to raise. With her first husband, the late Thomas Jeffries, Virginia gave birth to five children: Judy (the eldest), and two sets of twins - Tim and Tom, and Melba and Melvin. Through her years she worked as a homemaker and a CNA in various nursing homes. In March of 1967, she married the love of her life, Floyd G. Mullin. She wasn’t your everyday easy paced grandmother; she was made of spit and fire. She lived life fuller than most. Never hesitant behind the wheel of her fire engine red Dodge Daytona, she would fly by the other grandmothers, especially on her way to Whirley. Like a true Montanan she was an avid fly fisherman. She also enjoyed cooking meals for her family, reading The Bible and books by Danielle Steel. In the summers she enjoyed picking huckleberries, going to yard sales, taking scenic drives and enjoying a good conversation with family, friends, and even perfect strangers. In the late nineties she was diagnosed with cancer and knocked it out as if it was a common cold. She was a fighter, a woman of strength, and she showed this through her final days. When those days arrived she was surround by family and friends at her home in Elmo. She told her family not to worry, as she was excited to begin her new journey with the Lord. She is loved and greatly missed by her family and friends. Virginia is survived by her children Judy (Ron) Pearce, Tom (Sue) Jeffries, Tim (Linda) Jeffries and Melba (Dan) Boyd; sisters Florence Earling and Violet Feather; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Floyd G. Mullin; son Melvin Jeffries; sister Louise Badroad Bart; nephew Harold Badroad Bart; and granddaughters Micki and Mitzi. Services will be held Saturday, April 18 at 1 p.m. at the St. Ignatius Mission. A reception will follow at 3 p.m. in Elmo at the Koosta Hall. Virginia
McDougall Mullin
Virginia was born on March 24, 1927 in St. Ignatius to Samuel and Annie McDougall. She is survived by her four children: Judy (Ron) Pierce of Kellogg, ID, Tom (Sue) Jeffries of Hot Springs, Tim (Linda) Jeffries of St. Ignatius, and Melba (Dan) Boyd of Missoula; sisters Florence Earling of Spokane, WA and Violet Feather of Elmo; brother Magic McDougal; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Floyd Mullin and son Melvin. No services are planned at this time. Cremation and arrangement are by Grogan Funeral Home & Crematory of Polson. Condolences may be left to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com Dean
A. Gillette, Jr.
Dean was born February 14, 1967 in Plentywood to Dean and Marie Gillette. He was raised in Pinedale, WY and graduated from Pinedale High School in 1985. Dean enjoyed various hobbies throughout his life which included snowmobiling, four-wheeling, boating and hunting - he loved the outdoors. Dean moved to Arlee in 1998 where he continued enjoying the outdoors and his newest enjoyment became wagon rides around the valley with family and friends and his team of mules (Nick and Boobs). Dean was a gentle giant and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Dean will always be with us in our hearts. He was preceded in death by his father, Dean A. Gillette, Sr. Survivors include his mother Marie Gillette of Arlee; sisters and brother Margaret Gillette of Pinedale, WY, Pamela Gillette of Arlee, and John Wayne Gillette, also of Pinedale, WY; nieces and nephews Kara Dean Wiebe, Marissa Preece, Benjamin Preece and Shane Gillette; a great niece and a great nephew; and the ones who make him great, Rayne-bo Anderson and Oscar Huerta. A rosary was held Friday evening at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Arlee and funeral services were held on Saturday, April 4th at the Arlee Community Center. Memorials to assist the family may be made in care of Marie Gillette, PO Box 168, Arlee, MT 59821. Foster Funeral Home & Crematory of St. Ignatius assisted with thearrangements. Chi
Dawn (LeBeau) Wolf
Chi Dawn was born June 10, 1974 in Missoula to Leslie (McKeever) LeBeau and Hildred L. LeBeau. She was raised and educated in Ronan, St. Regis, Sanders Co. Schools and St. Ignatius. She received her AA Degree in Business Management at Salish Kootenai College. She worked for several of the businesses in St. Ignatius, also working in Missoula providing home caregiver services to the disabled and for several retail businesses. Most recently, Chi worked for S&K Technologies prior to her illness. Chi chose to trust God in the beginning stages with illness. She had a strong faith in her Lord, which gave her comfort and strength during the difficult months of illness. Chi enjoyed traveling, camping, hunting and shopping with friends and family. She liked to try out new recipes to share with family, friends and co-workers. Chi loved spending most of her time with family while camping at a National Park or in the big cities where she enjoyed shopping and seeing the sites. She also liked being with elderly people as well as enjoying her cousins and friends new babies. Her husband and daughters were the light of her life. She was a scorekeeper for several Women’s Pool Leagues and will be fondly remembered for her love of sunflower seeds and the social atmosphere she brought with her. A member of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Reservation in Fort Washakie, Wyo. and a descendant of the Salish Tribe of the Flathead Reservation. She married the love of her life Adam Wolf, a southeastern Montana native, on May 18, 2002. They lived in the Billings area and Missoula for a few years then made their permanent home in St. Ignatius. Chi was preceded in death by her father Hildred LeBeau; grandfather Lester McKeever; mother in law Delores Wolf; aunt Jamie McKeever Hernandez and great aunt Berna Hayford. Chi is survived by her beloved husband, Adam and their three daughters Kiara, Sevanna, Paje; her mother Leslie LeBeau of St. Ignatius; her brothers Kyle Managhan and his son Kyler of Missoula and Celsey Managhan of Lolo; grandparents Nancy Salo of WA, Ada of FL and Earl LeBeau of Fort Washakie, WY; aunts Rita McKeever of Perma, Heidi Standeven, Jennifer Salo, Kila Salo of Northwest Coast, Rhonda and Jola LeBeau of WY; uncles Wade, Bennie and Tommy of WY, Allen and Casey McKeever of OR and David Matne of WA as well as step grandmother Donna Veteh and step uncle Steven Hutchison of OR. If we left out any one please don’t be offended. Her daughter Kiara said "Chi was the greatest mom anyone could ever have. Us three girls were lucky to be gifted with her." She will be greatly missed, she was a good wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. We will never forget those big beautiful brown eyes and beautiful smile and her laughter. We are looking forward to the day we are reunited." A wake was held March 23 and 24 at the Longhouse where funeral services were conducted on Tuesday, March 24. Burial followed in Snyelmn Sntmtmne. A special thanks from her family to Lori Cap John, Bernie Alexander, Roxy Acevedo, Carla Block, Dawnelle Sorrel and her mom, Morrey Tellier, Roberta Steele, Michele Barlow, Shaquille Bundy Ness and Ralph Foster. Myna
Joy Boyd
Myrna is survived by her children, Linda lroncloud; Theresa lroncloud; Laurie (AI) Hulm; Chauncey Whitright III; Boyd (Pat) Whitright; Ruby Whitright; and Myrna Whitright-Azure (Alfred), all of Wolf Point. She is also survived by three generations of grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as sisters Bonnie Nelson and Mavis Martell both of Wolf Point. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Wayne Boyd, Sr., sons William James and Donald Wayne Whitright, and one daughter, Anita Ironcloud. Her life was an inspiration to her children, friends and acquaintances, and the battles she began will be carried on by her descendants that share her passion for equality for Native Peoples. A wake was Tuesday, March 31, 2009. Funeral services followed on Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at Silver Wolf Casino. Interment was at Greenwood Cemetery in Wolf Point. All services will be officiated by Pastor Steve Smith of the South Side Assembly of God in Wolf Point. Louis
Snowy Mountain Shepard
Shyla
Rae Lamere
Shyla is survived by her three children; Izaik of Box Elder, and Zara and James Freiburg of Arlee; mother Carmie Lamere of Box Elder; grandparents James Lamere of Box Elder; and Chuck and Sarah Two Teeth of Arlee. Shyla Rae loved to be around all of her family, nieces, and nephews. She adored and loved her children deeply. She loved to go to powwows and traveling all over meeting new people. She was very outgoing and got along so well with others. She will be deeply missed. Shyla was preceded in death by her great-grandparents John and Rosie Two Teeth; grandmother Nancy Two Teeth Lamere; uncles Curtis Alexander and Bam Two Teeth; and cousins Jesse John Weaselboy and Tiffany Two Teeth. Shyla Rae is also survived by her aunts Violet (Mike) Norris, Alvena Ameline, Sarah (Charles) LaFountaine of Helena, Gloria (Edi) Tanner, Kathy (Mike) McClure, Stacy Two Teeth, and Terry Two Teeth of Arlee; her uncles Billy Weaselboy of Helena and Troy Two Teeth of Ronan; and many cousins. Wake services were held at Salvation Army Gym in Helena on March 19th and 20th and traditional wake closing on Saturday March, followed by the burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Helena. Pallbearers were Brian Tanner, Charles LaFountaine, Paul Santana Flores, Jr., Mike Norris, Bub Norris, and Darrin Ameline. Honorary pallbearers were Myia Weaselboy, Victoria Swanby, Kristen Two Teeth, Tami Quinn, Terry Rose Norris, Jonell, Jovan, and Jonea Norris, Brandy Brien, Kayla Moran, and Starla Ford. Kenneth
L. "Ken-Dog" Miller
Born to Clifford and Leah (Foss) Miller on November 21, 1953. He was raised in Lewistown from where graduated from high school. Following his graduation he worked on the oilrigs and hauled oil waste. He was also a UPS driver based out of Missoula and worked at the mill in Missoula and eventually put his master carpentry skills to use in his contracting business - Grizzly Construction. Kenny was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed by his family and his true friends. Ken-Dog enjoyed the outdoors. If he wasn’t fishing, he was hunting or hiking. He enjoyed camping and was an avid river rafter living on the North and South Fork of the Flathead. It was his favorite thing to do. He was also proud to be a member of the Dream Team on Big Mountain, which taught the handicapped to ski. He also had the chance to star in a commercial and enjoyed being called the new nickname of "Hollywood Miller". He is survived by his wife Michelle of the family home; daughter Makenzie Miller; step-children Angela Phillips, Aria Haliday and her children Nora and Adam, Jamie Haliday, Jeffery Hughes and Cole Milne-Jones; his parents Clifford and Leah Miller of Lolo; sisters Janet Granthum and her children Lea and Roxanne of Maui, HI, Cathy Miller of Lolo, and Debbie West of Leavenworth, WA; and brother James Miller of Missoula as well as many close friends and extended family members. You are invited to come celebrate a life full of love and fun the way he wanted. As per his request a Celebration of His Life will be held at the family home located at 28321 Cougar Trail in Bigfork at mm#80 on Highway 83 (call 260-2797 or 837-3276 for directions) this Saturday at 3 p.m. A potluck reception at the residence will follow the service. Mary
Kay Brown
A member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe, she was born June 23, 1946 in St. Ignatius to Geraldine (Fleming) and Jacob Brown. Mary’s parents died when she was a young girl and she eventually moved to Plains where she worked with the Little Bitterroot Services until a few years ago when she moved to Hot Springs. Mary was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her brother in Helena, an aunt and uncle Tom and Fritz Dillon of Missoula and several nieces and nephews. Services are planned for later in the year when she will be laid to rest next to her mother in the St. Ignatius Catholic Cemetery. William
Jordan Prewett
Jordan was born October 3, 1987, in Cortez, CO to Kenny and Merrie Prewett. The family moved to Pablo in 1991 where Jordan attended Glacier View Christian School. The family then moved to Arlee in 2000, and Jordan attended Valley Christian School in Missoula. Most recently Jordan had worked for Sheehan Construction on a pipeline job in Florida and was preparing to go to the next job in Georgia. Last fall Jordan had renewed his faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ and had returned home eager to share it with his friends. We could see the blessings of God in his life. He was a joy to be around. Jordan leaves behind his parents, Kenny and Merrie; brother, Asa (Jenna) and their children Izayus and Amira; sister Laura (Sonny) Ford and their daughter Kate; and sister, Anna; grandmother, Floanne Prewett; and close friend, Sergey Svetlichny. Visitation was held on Sunday at the Grogan Funeral Home in Polson. Jordan’s funeral was held Monday, March, 16, 2009 at Jocko Valley Baptist Church with burial immediately following at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson. Grogan Funeral Home had charge of the arrangements. Condolences may also be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 Alice
Y. Hawk Bigcrane
She was born in St. Ignatius on January 15, 1931 to Eva (Michel) and James Blanket Hawk, Sr. A Pend d’Oreille, she was a proud member of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes. She was raised in St. Ignatius and attended Ursulines Academy. Like many of our Tribal members at the time she spent her youthful summers working on the Yakima Reservation. She married John Francis Bigcrane in 1954. Through his employment they and their family moved to numerous locations throughout western Montana, north Idaho and eastern Washington. Tragically John died in a car accident on July 1, 1967. In 1972, she married James J. Swaney. They later divorced in 1978. In 1973, she moved her family to Clarice Paul Homesites in Ronan where she remained her living years. Her home was always filled with family and friends. Alice loved spending time with her large family and sharing in their life and activities. She loved giving gifts to her family, family birthday parties and barbeques, attending powwows, cultural events, dinners and memorials, elder’s activities at Two Eagle and the People’s Center. She loved traveling and especially trips to visit family in Washington. For many years she served her Tribe as an election judge in the Ronan District, a responsibility she took pride in and enjoyed. She particularly loved the time spent with her family’s drum group, the Bigcrane Singers, traveling throughout the country, seeing new places and meeting new people. One of her most memorable trips was to Atlanta, Georgia in June 1996 for an International Drum Gathering preceding the Atlanta Olympics. A resilient woman, Alice lived her life with quiet dignity and a strong will, spirit and mind. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John; son Ricky; infant daughter Mary; infant sister Rita; and her brothers Alfred, James and Donald. She is survived by sister Janie Wabaunsee of St. Ignatius; her "Twin" Rosemary Santos of Schley; her children Roy, Art, Steve, Lester, James, Ed, and Arlene and Willie Caye, all of Ronan; and Ellen Rose and Edgar Pretty On Top of Crow Agency; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were her grandsons Tomni and Andrew Bigcrane, nephews Jim, Larry and Ken Wabaunsee and Gordon Williams, Willie Caye, and Terry Tanner. Wake Services began January 21 at the Longhouse in St. Ignatius. Rosary was held January 22. Mass was held January 23, at the St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Burial was held in St. Ignatius at the Snyelmn Sntmtmne. Philip
Haynes Lutes
After undergraduate work at Brown University, Philip received a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Michigan, where he met his wife, Carolyn. The offer of a position at the University of Montana prompted Philip to move his young family in 1969 to Missoula, where he taught until an early retirement in 1994. Philip found a second, very fulfilling, career as he studied for and became an accomplished Jungian therapist. He moved to Arlee in 1993, and enjoyed exercising his carpentry skills in updating and expanding his home. Despite a debilitating cancer, he managed to maintain an independent way of life and thought until the very end. As he had hoped, he died in his home, in his sleep. Philip’s brother Chris; sisters Lora-Lee and Barbara; sons Jeremy and Jason; daughter Sarah and grandchildren Gabriel, Julian, and Clementine bid him the most loving farewell and fond remembrances. A memorial will take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 at the Jocko Church in Arlee on Agency Road, followed by a potluck dinner at the Cougar Ranch B&B on Musket Lane in Evaro, off of Highway 93. Uthana
Rose Rochelle
Born in Spokane, WA on March 26, 1940, she became a cosmetologist and hairdresser moving to the Thompson Falls area about fifteen years ago to retire. Survivors include her husband Albert E. Rochelle, Jr. of Thompson Falls; son James Allen Rochelle of a Germany; sister Gail who lives in Columbia Falls; and a sister and three brothers that live out of state. In accordance with her wishes no services are planned at this time. Foster Funeral Home and Crematory of St. Ignatius is assisting the family with arrangements. Stephen
"Jay" Flores
Jay’s first few years were spent in various places: Montana, Texas, Mexico and then Tonasket, Wash. In his pre-teenage years he moved with his family to Omak, Wa. where he attended school and started his life. He met Shelley Swayzee and had two wonderful sons, Christopher and Adam Flores. Christopher has a son Braden and a daughter Cadence Marie, who is to be born on Jay’s birthday. Jay had many adventures in Omak and grew to love the town so much that he never wanted to leave. Jay loved cars and was very adamant about them being clean and running to perfection. Jay was an excellent friend, brother, father, uncle, nephew, brother-in-law and grandfather. He was blessed with a large caring family. Jay loved to tease and play practical jokes on unsuspecting victims like his nieces and nephews. They will never forget him and neither will we. Jay passed peacefully in his sleep in Omak, Wa. on February 10, 2009. He was laid to rest on Friday February 13 at Omak Cemetery next to Amy, his life’s love. Rosary and funeral masses were held at ‘Lady of the Valley’ in Omak by Father Cyprien. Tina
Thatcher
Tina was born in Snohomish, Washington on July 13, 1964 to Dean Kenneth and Sharon (Payne) Thatcher. Tina was employed as a vocational rehabilitation placement specialist in California until moving to Montana in 2001 where she worked for Reliacom and Lucky Lil’s Casino, both in Ronan, until she was diagnosed with MS, which caused her to slow down. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Jessie James Thatcher who passed away in 1991. Survivors include her children Christopher Thatcher of Ft. Lewis, WA and Marissa (Francis Pierre, Jr.) Thatcher of Ronan; grandchildren Andrew and Linden; brothers and sisters, Ray, Liz, Willie, George, Amy and Linda. A wake began Friday in the Longhouse in St. Ignatius; funeral services were held Saturday and burial followed in Snyelmn Sntmtmne Cemetary. Foster Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family with arrangements. Dorothy
Rose Felsman
Born to Henry and Angeline (Matt) Felsman on November 1, 1928 in St. Ignatius, she was a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Dorothy was raised on the reservation and finished her education at Chemawah. She then returned to Hot Springs where she worked at the Bath House until its closing. An avid traveler, she enjoyed traveling especially in the Southwest. Dorothy was also a good mechanic as several roadside repair shops found out and she was known to drive to LA from Hot Springs in 24 hours in her truck. She also liked to fish, was a terrific cook especially for Mexican food and could crochet. She is survived by her longtime friend Ida Trujillo of Hot Springs and several nieces and nephews from the Felsman and Matt families including Doris Felsman of Ronan. Visitation was held at the Foster Funeral Home in St. Ignatius on Monday with the Rosary recited Monday evening at the Funeral Home Chapel. Mass was celebrated at the St. Ignatius Mission on Tuesday with the burial following in the St. Ignatius Catholic Cemetery. Agnes
"Oshanee" Cullooyah Kenmille
Through her mother, she was a descendent of Chief Charlo’s band of Salish who was forcefully removed from the Bitterroot in 1892. Her mother taught her to bead at a young age. At the age of 13, she was orphaned. The following year she married Edward Stasso and moved to Elmo where she had one daughter, Annie Stasso Antiste. While living in Elmo, she became a fluent speaker of the Kootenai Language and started her journey to becoming an expert in hide tanning and beadwork. Following the death of her husband, she remarried Joseph Mathias, son of Chief Baptiste Mathias, and together they had two children, Catherine Mathias and Camille Mathias. In 1937, while helping build Kerr Dam, an unfortunate rockslide killed Joe Mathias. Her third marriage was to Camille Kenmille and they had four sons, Wilfred, Eneas, Laurence, and Donald Kenmille. They later divorced. She continued to raise her family, working numerous jobs across the northwest, while continuing to master her beadwork. Gramma taught language classes along with arts and crafts at Two Eagle River School. She also taught hide tanning at Salish Kootenai College for many, retiring in 2008. She received numerous, prestigious honors and awards, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Montana Art’s Governor Award. She also received an honorary bachelors degree from Salish Kootenai College. She is preceded in death by her parents Annie and Paul Cullooyah; husbands Edward Stasso, Joseph Mathias and Camille Kenmille; companion Mose Auld; brothers Alex, Frank and John Cullooyah; sisters Mary Cullooyah Andrews and Cecille Cullooyah Ascencio; daughter Annie Stasso Antiste; and grandchildren Joseph Hamel and Kelly Ann Kenmille. She is survived by her children Catherine Mathias Hamel, Camille Mathias, Wilfred Kenmille, Eneas Kenmille, Laurence Kenmille, Donald Kenmille and stepson Michel "Mike" Kenmille and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nephews and nieces. Gramma loved war dances and was the head war dance woman for the Arlee and Standing Arrow Powwows. Over the years she traveled to numerous powwows throughout the northwest and Canada. Gramma had many friends throughout the world and each of them had a special place in her heart. She had a jolly personality and lived and loved life to the fullest. Gram was a very firm believer in traditional customs and beliefs. Gramma believed in hard work. She had a knack for making people laugh and enjoyed the company of her many friends and especially the younger generations. Gramma's other special past times included picking berries, digging various roots, eating traditional foods, and playing rummy according to "grammas rules." It’s been great living with gramma in this day and age as she was a walking encyclopedia. She lived an old-timers life and shared much of it with everyone she encountered. She shared her knowledge of life and experiences with us all. She was a great teacher and a unique self-made woman. We will miss her dearly and never forget her as her teachings and stories remain with us. We realize how lucky we were to be apart of our lives. As we heard her say, "You got brains!" A wake began Friday at the Cultural Hall in Elmo, Saturday at the Longhouse in St. Ignatius and concluded on Sunday at the Arlee Community Center; the Rosary was recited on Sunday evening at the Center. Mass was held in St. John Berchman’s Catholic Church at Jocko Agency near Arlee on Monday with burial following in the Jocko Catholic Cemetery. Joseph
Edmond Garcia
Joe was born in Polson on May 27, 1939 and joined our creator on February 11, 2009 at his new home with his wife by his side. Joe passed away from natural causes. He served in the U.S. Army in 1958 and returned back to the Flathead Reservation after his military discharge. He met the love of his life, Suzanne Clemens, and they married on July 2, 1965 in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho. Joe and Sue had 43 wonderful years together. They had four children, Jacqueline being the oldest and Joe being the youngest. Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing and golf. He would call up his brothers and say "golf anyone?" Spending time with his family was what dad enjoyed. Camping at Blue Bay by the lake and having family get-togethers will be memories cherished by everyone. Joe is preceded in death by his parents Trinidad and Annie Garcia; brother Jack; sisters Connie Huffman and Clara Bykari; two sons and a grandson Andrew Sharp. Joe is survived by his wife Suzanne; daughter Jacqueline Sharp; son Joe ( Ronda) Garcia; and six grandchildren: Jon, Samuel Sharp, Bradlee Garcia, LaShelle Sharp, Koby, Michlyn Garcia; brothers Don (Sylvia), Plair, Lyle (Maxine), George (Trudie) Garcia; and many nephews, nieces and great nephews and great nieces. Visitation was held on Monday at the Grogan Funeral Home in Polson. A vigil service was held at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, Feb. 17 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Rev. Jim Connor officiating. Military honors followed the services at the church. Cremation followed the services and a private interment was held at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson. Condolences may be sent to www.groganfuneralhome.com Auddie
M. Coulson
Auddie was raised and educated in the Jocko Valley, by his parents Jim and Connie. He enjoyed cooking, carpentry, hunting, fishing, bowling and having barbeques with his family and friends. Auddie loved dancing the jitterbug and polka, with his sister Becky, and he enjoyed spending time with his wife and children. Auddie was a very strong willed person, and will be missed by everyone who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents Jim and Connie (Moran) Coulson; sister Linda (Coulson) Dahl; grandparents Ernie and Alice Moran and Wilbur and Ottie Coulson; and numerous other relatives. Auddie is survived by his wife of ten years Shawna and their three children Nathanial, Noah and NataLee all of Arlee; an ex-wife Michelle and their three children Jenny and Martin of California and Rusty of Arlee; three sisters Debbie (Skip) Privett, of Missoula, Rebecca Dillard of Arlee and Peggy (Bob) Hammond of Wasilla, Alaska; a brother Chet James of California; and a large extended family of very good friends including Jim and Clayton Malatare. A Memorial Mass was celebrated for Auddie last Saturday in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Arlee with Fr. Andrew Maddock, S.J. as celebrant. a reception was held at the Arlee Community Center following the services. Foster Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. Arnold
Lewis Caye
Arnold was born on March 31, 1951 in St. Ignatius to Abraham and Agnes Caye. He attended schools in Pierre, S.D. and high school at Flandreau, S.D. Arnold traveled and hitchhiked throughout the Northwest. He was present with AIM during the Alcatraz incident. He attended the University of Nebraska general education program. Arnold was drafted during the Vietnam War and served his time in Germany were he was a ‘dog soldier’. He married Nancy Schall in Portland, OR. While in Oregon he attended upholstery school. He worked building bridges all over the Northwest. He attended and received a degree in carpentry from Salish Kootenai College. He worked for Mission Valley Power, KCDC and Salish and Kootenai Housing Authority. He also helped build McDonald Dam and worked as an independent building contractor. Arnold loved stickgame, cutting wood, cutting Christmas trees and spending time in the woods. He especially enjoyed playing pool and had won numerous tournaments. Arnold’s favorite activity was photography. Arnold was a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe. Arnold was proud of his last two years of sobriety and enjoyed the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father Abraham Caye. He is survived by his mother Agnes Caye and stepfather August Lefthand of Polson; three children: Nich’e Caye of Pablo, Madaline Caye and her husband Jason Nentowig of Polson and Numa Caye of St. Ignatius; five grandchildren: Kamryn, Levi, Brayden, Ella and Madelyn; siblings Barbara Caye of Pablo; Delores (Grayson) Sam of Omak, WA; Iris Caye of Pablo; June Caye of Polson; Abraham Caye of Seattle; and Alvin Caye of Pablo; and mother-in-law Betty Schall of Arlee. Traditional wake services began on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at the Elmo Hall. Mass of Christian burial was held on Monday, at the Elmo Hall. Burial with military honors were at the Dayton Cemetery. Arrangements were by Grogan Funeral Home of Polson. Michael
Eugene White
He graduated from Ronan High School in 1992. He continued on to work at various jobs in different places. He enjoyed fishing, construction work and fixing motorcycles. He had many nights having "JAM" sessions with his buddies: Joe, Ed, Scott and Kyle. If you heard music throughout Pablo - it was their band. In 1997, he was involved in a horrible motorcycle accident, where his life was almost taken; we were blessed to keep him here with us. We all took turns taking care of him, but for all of us we have to thank his friend Joe for taking him in for a year after his wreck. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Doris and Arthur Brueggeman, auntie Geneva "Tootsie" White. He is survived by his parents Debby and Tony Adams; sisters Amanda (Randy); Trisha and Amelia; brothers Nick (Justin), John and Tony (Chelsea); nieces Kiana, Melanie, Maizy, Aaliyah, Natalie and nephews Dallas, Isaak, Elijah, Bailey, Noah, Randy, Terrance and Little Tony and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Traditional services began Monday with the rosary recited on Tuesday. Wake closing was Wednesday with Mass following in the St. Ignatius Catholic Mission. Interment followed in the Snyelmn Sntmtmne in St. Ignatius. Pallbearers were Ben Ascencio, Adam Smith, Mike Rodriguez, Leroy Black, Douglas Kenmille and Jordan Bruegeman. Traci
Lynn Matt Hernandez A member of the Confederated Salish, Kootenai and Pend d'Oreille Tribes, she was born the daughter of Earl Patrick Matt and Lucille M. Old Horn. She was born Oct. 30, 1965 in Libby. Growing up on the Flathead Reservation she attended Two Eagle River School in Dixon where she graduated in 1984. After high school she moved to Minneapolis where she graduated from Hennipen County Tech College as a Registered Nurse. She then moved to California and Washington before returning to Minneapolis. Traci was a very loving wife and mother, always taking in and caring for all her family with all the love in her heart. Very goal oriented she always accomplished everything she set out to do, achieving so much in life – becoming a foster-mom-mother to Kristopher and Moses. Her nieces and nephews brought a great joy to her life with unconditional love. She was always there for each one of them, whether it was helping in the next step to adulthood or simply teaching you the right kind of make up to wear. She was the best auntie any niece or nephew could ever have asked for. She married the love of her life Jose’ "Jesse" L. Hernandez in 1995. She was preceded in death by her mother Lucille Old Horn; grandparents Fred and Christine Old Horn; and aunts and uncles Larry, Sr., Fred "Butch", Ronald "Mr. Brown", Kevin, Debbie and Dorris. She is survived by her father Earl Patrick Matt, Sr.; husband Jose’ "Jesse" Hernandez; her daughter Chantel Sorrel; sons Andrew P. Wilder, Jr., Carlos Matt Hernandez, Kristopher and Moses Hernandez; two beautiful grandchildren Larz Felsman and Joslyn Felsman; sisters and brothers John Hernandez, William "John" Matt, Fredrick Matt, Earl "Pat" Matt, Jr, Phillip Matt, Patricia Matt, Laurie Old Horn, Angel Matt-Howard and Marie Diaz; aunties Wanda William, Anne Mitchell, Sharon Two Teeth and Regina Old Horn as well as a large extended family of cousins, nieces and nephews. A wake began at the Longhouse on Sunday with the Rosary being recited on Monday in the Longhouse. Christian funeral services were held Tuesday in the Longhouse. Interment followed in the Hminsto Cemetery in Camas Prairie. Pallbearers are Lester Old Horn, Rick Two Teeth, Sr., Duffy Two Teeth, Jazz Pierre, Paul Ross, Brian Mitchell, Linden Plant and Larry "Cowboy" Old Horn. Albert
Clifford Paul
Dad was born on November 28, 1922 to Anna Boyer and Dorila "Doc" Paul in the Frenchtown Valley. When he was 12 they moved by horse and wagon to a farm in Arlee. He married his high school sweetheart, Doris Christopher in 1961 and they moved to Portland, Or., where he worked in the shipyards. They later moved back to Montana and worked on the Glory B Ranch in St. Ignatius, where he trained horses and Missoula at the sawmill. In 1952 they moved with us three girls to Dixon where they owned and operated the Dixon Mercantile until they retired in 1970 to move to Yuma Az., to rock hound and square dance. They would come back summers to check on the grandchildren. Dad returned to his mountains four years ago when his health started to fail. He lived at Clark Fork Riverside Apts. where he made many friends, and also at Riverside Health Care. He was proceeded in death by his parents; wife Doris; daughter Esther Fowler; brother Willis; grandson Rob; and great-grandson Azure. He is survived by his sisters, Burnedette Dufour of Lakeside and Cora (Ralph) Brackett of Great Falls; daughters Barbara (Carl) Erlandson of Evaro and Sharon Mitchell of Arlee and son-in-law Ken Fowler (Marcia) of Burlington, WA and Yuma, Az; seven grandchildren: Scott and Bruce Fowler of Burlington, WA.; Kim (Wayne) Kanenen of Helena; Adam Erlandson of Las Vegas, NV; Louise Mitchell of St. Ignatius; Rene Mitchell of Arlee; and Rhonda Hernandez of Ronan; and nine great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. He wished to be cremated. A service will be held at a later time. Hildegarde
A. Firestone
A descendant of Chief Victor, Hildegard was a Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal member. She was born in Evaro on August 9, 1927 and educated at the Urselines School in St. Ignatius. Hildegarde became a devout Catholic and was active in the St. Ignatius and Jocko Parishes as well as the Kateri Tekakwitha Ministry. A very private person, she and her friend Dorothy would often conduct Mass at Jocko and helped serve communion whenever asked. She had many close friends and was also involved in the Senior Citizens and with the Jocko Cemetery Board. She liked the outdoors and would snowmobile, garden, pick huckleberries and fish. She also enjoyed flying with her husband Jack in their little plane. Her husband Jack Firestone always joked that he followed a set of moccasin tracks to find Hildegarde and it must of really worked for they made a wonderful life together in the Jocko Valley running many businesses there for many years. She is preceded in death by her husband Jack Firestone; her parents Laughing Louis Adams and Mary Pellew Adams; stepfather John Peone; and brothers Ed and George Adams and Tony Pellew Adams. She leaves behind her children Mary (Brad) Habermahl of Warden WA; Michael Hatch of False Pass, AK; Ron Hatch of Tukwila, WA; and Connie Cok of Bozeman; grandson Ronnie Hatch of Olympia WA; a special nephew Shawn Dumont as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews and cousins including Scotty Gardipe and Charlene SiJohn who she was raised with.. A visitation was held on Sunday at the Foster Funeral Home in St. Ignatius with the Rosary being recited at 7 p.m. Mass was celebrated on Monday in the St. Ignatius Catholic Church with Interment following the Jocko Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made in her name to the Katerie Tekakwitha Ministry or to the St. John Berchmann’s Catholic Church (Jocko) restoration fund. Virginia
Lee Poole Bartholomew
Virginia was born on August 22, 1924 in Seattle, WA. She lived with her mother, Laura Lee Sanders and stepfather, Errol Sanders in California for 23 years. Virginia later moved to Spokane, WA and met Walter Bartholomew. She became his wife on October 24, 1947. Together they had four children, Tom, Jim, Peggy and Lori. Their family lived for many years in Spokane, WA and later in Paradise, MT. Virginia recently celebrated 61 years of marriage with her loving husband, Walt. As a young mother, she spent her time canning, cooking, sewing and raising her four children. She was the mother that always added a homemade touch. Before meeting Walt, Virginia worked at the Spokane Telephone Company. After many years together in Spokane, the family moved to Paradise, MT. There, Walt and Virginia bought the Nip & Sip Café, which she operated while he worked for the railroad. Virginia enjoyed golfing and participated in several tournaments over the years. She also enjoyed bingo, playing cards, bowling and knitting. Virginia expressed her creative personality through her paintings. She was always a supportive wife to her husband, as he donated much of his time to the Masons and Shriners. As the years went on, Walt and Virginia became snow birds, traveling each winter to Yuma, Arizona. They were always accompanied by their loyal canine companions, Hilde and Heidi. In 1991, they decided to settle down in St. Ignatius, MT and enjoy a more peaceful time near the mountains. Virginia is preceded in death by her mother, Laura L. Sanders, her stepfather, Errol Sanders and her husband, Walter Eugene Bartholomew. Virginia is survived by her children, Walter T. Bartholomew (Cindy) of Spokane, James L. Bartholomew (Sue) of Plains, Peggy A. Marrinan (Michael) of Hot Springs, and Lori D. Charette (Babe) of St. Ignatius. She is survived by 10 grandchildren, Mark Bartholomew (Becky), Brian Bartholomew, Derek Bartholomew (Carrie), Erek Bartholomew (Toni) all of Spokane, Bobbi Jore (Matt) of Ronan, Bill Mitchell (Jennifer) of St. Ignatius, Sarah Marrinan (Jeremy) of Spokane, John Marrinan (Elena) of Camas Prairie, Matthew Marrinan of Whitefish and Annie Marrinan of Kalispell and 12 great-grandchildren. Virginia will be remembered with love every day. Virginia and Walt were always together and on this day, too, they will be laid to rest with each other. Services to be held at 1pm January 10th at Manito Masonic Temple, 2715 S. Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA. Graveside service to follow at Spokane Memorial Gardens. Kellie
Lynn Ducharme
Kellie was the daughter of Harold the late Leslie Ducharme from Polson. She was born on November 14, 1965 in Boise, Idaho. She lived in Polson for the past nine years. Kellie is survived by her dad, Harold "Bud" Ducharme in Polson; her brother Bill (Ellen) Dorman of Salt Lake City, UT and her sister Rachael (Jim) Jardine and nephews Jack and Grey of Shelley, ID; her uncle Ray and Aunt Phyllis Lewin of Salt Lake City, UT and several relatives in Boise, ID. Kellie also has several aunts, uncles and cousins in the Ducharme family. Kellie enjoyed being with family, shopping and liked her pet cats. She also liked to pick huckleberries and morel mushrooms. Kellie loved to spend time at the family cabin in the Boise National Forest. Kellie graduated from Borah High School, Boise, ID in 1983. She attended Boise State University for two years. Kellie was employed at several Best Western Hotels in Boise and later moved to Skagway, Alaska and worked as a tour guide for the White Pass Yukon Railroad. Services will be held Friday at 1 pm in the Foster Funeral Home in St. Ignatius with a meal following in the Longhouse. |
