Occasionally a posting on here will trigger the memory of someone who is no longer with us. It doesn't seem fair, or even real, that these people have already left this life and I want to take the time to remember them here. Their life mattered and they are still remembered. Feel free to add anyone who you think about.

Mark Kosty- Class of '77

Dennis Shulz- Class of '76

...here's to you.

FH

Good Idea for a Forum!!!

Nancy Thorne- What a dazzling diamond she was.

Kim Stabio- A smile is always on my face when I think of Kim

CCHS Teachers Bob Southall, Don McLennan, Dr. Luther, Harold Boe

I apologize for possibly sounding uninformed but wasn't Nancy Thorne the art teacher at the CCHS for many years? If this is the Nancy Thorne you are speaking of I had no idea she had passed on. She was a wonderful teacher and such a nice nice woman!

Man it pains me to think of all the friends I have lost from Miles City class of "72" & "73". Just a few that come to mind Robin Rhoads, Bruce Baker, Tom Bart, Paul Grenz, Brenda Brown, Dan Phalan and many others I am forgetting now. Most of these where life long friends who will always have a place in my heart.

Each class reunion there are a few more on the list, and at hard as it is to find them gone the memories I have will remain with me as long as I live.

Two others that need to be remembered are Jeff Losett - '75 and Rick Jones - '76.

Nancy Kailey Thorne, 54, of Merlin, Oregon died Monday, August 9, 2004 at Three Rivers Community Hospital of complications from an automobile accident two weeks earlier. Nancy touched many, many students. She was also a great friend who is dearly missed.

Bo Laird was one of my favorite teachers in High School-I was so sad to hear he had passed.

Same with Larice Smith, one of my favorite people from the class of '80, who passed a little over a year ago.

I want to remember my dear friend Sheri Ziebarth (Marthaler)class of 1964. She is missed by many good friends.

Barb Gierke

Michael Douglas Worman

I'm sure many of you remember Howard Letke. He was a great history teacher and all three of my children developed a love of history from his classes.

I'm sure many of you remember Howard Letke. He was a great history teacher and all three of my children developed a love of history from his classes.

Marty Lemelin Jr. recently died from cancer. I'm sure a lot of people knew him and his family.

Is Marty the one who loved to ride his jet ski all the time?

Yes he is. You can read his obituary on milescitystar.com

In addition to Chuck's input for the class of '72, Skip Buflod, Connie Higgins, Julie Stewart, Nancy Nielson, Tom Ogdahl, Rod Geist, Dave Thiebault and one we lost while in school, Monte Moreno. There may be more but I am not aware of them. May they rest in peace.

Kacey, thanks for mentioning my sister Barb. She has been gone for ten years now and we still miss her upbeat attitude and good jokes!

Barb will always be remembered. I should also mention Katie Gierke. She had an infectious smile.

My sister, Mary Pelletier-Filiault(8/3/03). Miss her like crazy

I was remiss in not mentioning a good friend of mine who suffered from MS the last few years of her life but was an inspiration to us all, Kitty Bertrand who passed away in January. Kitty was from the class of '73.

Ruth Ann Sturtz from the class of 1975. I'll never forget her smile and laugh.

The fishing trips just aren't the same without my good buddy Rick Jones by my side. Class of 76, passed away in 96. I know I've never met a better man.

There are so many names showing up on this site. I am at a loss as to all the people that have passed on. Thank you to everyone who takes the time to remember someone special. It is sad to know they are gone, but it brings back wonderful memories of the time we spent together.

Rick Comer Class of 71
Marie Eddy Class of 72

SHHS Class of 1977

Calvin Huschka
Lori Jaeger
Celeste Reid

SHHS Class of 1978
Brian Birdwell

Ben Pius
Mark Fiechtner
Chris Kurkowski
Marty Etchemendy
Ben Herzog
Will Ferrin

Cathy Peterson
Laurie Grassmid-Kolka
Matt Zook

All class of 1988. All greatly missed.

Thanks for remembering them, Cory. "88"

from my class,

mark mathison
ben herzog

Both great guys who's life ended tragically.

Haley Wilkerson
Todd Bergerson
Russ Martin
Danny Phalen
Connie Anderson
Louise Kappes of the Melody Shop

Gary Biegalke--Class of 1968
Dorinda Biegalke

killed August 1972 by a drunk driver
Remembered always

Sometimes you need to remember and can't...

What was the name of the girl that was killed at the bottom of government hill coming back from the party in Woodruf park in 1978 or 79? I think she was a twin? I want to say her last name was Schultz or Wilson but I don't remember.


[This message has been edited by Richard Bonine, Jr (edited 8/9/2006).]

Laurie Wilson.

"Man it pains me to think of all the friends I have lost from Miles City class of "72" & "73". Just a few that come to mind Robin Rhoads, Bruce Baker, Tom Bart, Paul Grenz, Brenda Brown, Dan Phalan and many others I am forgetting now. Most of these where life long friends who will always have a place in my heart.

Each class reunion there are a few more on the list, and at hard as it is to find them gone the memories I have will remain with me as long as I live." - Chuck Schott

I remember a few of those names. My family was good friends with Robin Rhodes, and as little girl, I used to tell Robin that I was going to marry him when I grew up! Also, Bruce Baker was good friends with my family, and he gave me my first ride on a motorcycle. They will never be forgotten and were truly loved and now missed.
Heather M

It will be 20 years this September since my brother David was killed in an auto accident. There are so many from his class that are gone.

One of his favorite sayings: To Hell with Grant, To hell with Lee, Forget them all and Remember ME!!

In Loving Memory of my Brother David class of '76


Dana Jablinske
class of '81

Sadly, us "88"ers have recently lost another classmate and friend...Brian Kolka passed last week after a battle with cancer. Rest In Peace my friend...we will miss you.

Eric Paul Hawkinson
Eric Paul Hawkinson, age 48, of Billings, passed away on Friday, Sept. 1, 2006, at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minn., after a courageous battle with a rare blood disease.
Eric was born in Billings on July 12, 1958, to Jerry and Lauris (Collison) Hawkinson. He was raised in Kinsey, where he attended elementary school and attended high school at Custer County High in Miles City, where he graduated in 1976. He was married to Sandra Hewitt on Feb. 24, 1979, in Miles City. On Sept. 7, 1982, they had a daughter, Jennifer Lee Hawkinson. While in Miles City, Eric spent many years working for Cenex Co-op before starting up Hawkinson Air Supply, an Ultralight accessories business. Following the dissolution of his first marriage, he relocated to Billings.
In the spring of 1986, Eric met his wife and best friend of 20 years, Ellen (Pinnow) Hawkinson. Being an avid R/C enthusiast, Eric spent some time working with R/C airplanes for Al Coomber of Central Hobbies before he and Ellen decided to put everything they had into starting up their own R/C Helicopter business, Heliproz Inc. With the entrepreneurial skills Eric possessed, he was able to start from nothing and create the biggest and best R/C Heli shop on the planet!
Having been in the R/C industry since 1969, he was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the industry and was able to assist and excite numerous heli pilots all across the world.
As well as R/C Helicopters and Airplanes, Eric enjoyed spending time with his wife, daughter and seven weezos (cats). Eric was happiest when he was either spending time with fellow pilots and friends at the heli field, barbecuing steaks in the backyard with Ellen, Jennifer and the cats, and, of course, holidays and special occasions. He will be dearly missed.
Eric is survived by his wife, Ellen Hawkinson of Billings; one daughter, Jennifer Hawkinson of Billings; his father, Jerry Hawkinson of Gettysburg, S.D., and mother Lauris Hawkinson of Spearfish, S.D.; one brother, Lane Hawkinson and wife Jo of Spearfish; seven loving cats, Ashley, Lizzee, Lucy, Missy, Katie, Wooly and Gizmo.
Eric is preceded in death by his older brother, Michael Hawkinson of Phoenix; and a very special pet and friend, Kelly "Chowdernoogis."
Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, at the Billings Blade Benders Field, located directly behind Heliproz at 1728 Lampman Drive. Entrance to the field is located directly next to Supervalu.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to either the "Kelly Fund" at Grand Avenue Animal Hospital located at 2932 Grand Ave., or to the Last Chance Cat Sanctuary located at 2113 Walter Road.

Published in the Billings Gazette from 9/5/2006 - 9/6/2006.

I'm sure many of us knew Eric, his older brother Michael and his ex Sandy Hewitt. Sympathies to the family who has now lost two sons.

Millie Hom- nurse and teacher, and the woman who helped raise me. She contributed so much to the nursing community and to the Scared Heart Parish and to Billings Central and other local community groups.

Mother--- Thank you, I miss you.

"Jumpin' Jim Love"
Jim is the reason that I became a paratrooper. A former POW, and (always will be) paratrooper/Jumpmaster icon, a great friend to the Hom family, and to those who he touched and helped with his role as a speech therapist.

Jim--- Airborne!! All the way!!

There is not enough room here or enough words to describe what these 2 people have done for me, not to mention countless others.

[This message has been edited by Matt Hom (edited 9/7/2006).]

Mr. Fretland has passed away. I'm sure many of you knew him as a spanish teacher.

Dear Kacey;

As the very proud parents of Todd Bergerson, it is with gratitude that we see his name remembered. Haley was also a dear friend of ours, especially of our daughter Becca's. How can they be gone? Thank you for remembering.

Mark and Vicki Waddington

Doug Muri

Todd was a wonderful boy who never had the chance to grow up and become the great man he could have been. Haley also was a wonderful young woman with such a bright future. Their lives were both cut way too short. One by illness, one by circumstances beyond his control. Being a parent is a hard job, losing a child is unimaginable. There are many who have lost children, too many to even list. My heart goes out to Todd's father Bob and his family. And the Wilkersons are always in my thoughts and prayers. For all the other families I haven't mentioned, you too are in my prayers.

I would like to remember a dear friend, Haley Wilkerson ('04). I will forever be changed by that girl, and those who knew her knew why! She was amazing beyond words...I will never be able to act in another play without thinking of her. A funny little story about Haley...

We were juniors at CCDHS and both in the play "Night of January 16th" by Ayn Rand. I was the Defense Attourney and Haley was my nemesis as Prosecuting Attourney. It was our last production and we were told to "have fun." Needless to say we got a little out of hand and began adding in random parts. Some spoke with accents, others developed stutters. Haley took on the task of adding the word "meow" to the end of as many lines as she could. In one particular scene, I was badgering her witness when Haley jumped up and yelled - with a straight face, mind you - "meow listen here, I object!" I was done - out of control laughter. I was supposed to jump up and begin arguing with her but was unable due to the fact that I was now crying with laughter......I miss that kid.

I knew many of these people who left us to soon. we also have lost quite a few teachers and others from the schools over the years that did their best to make positive influences on many of us.

Don MacClennan (Sp)
Bob Southhall
Carl Luther
Mary Shipley
Paula Compton

I can watch a Jeopordy episode and my wife knows why I can answer questions about English literature and classic novels.

Thank you for forcing me to learn

My sister Jaunita, I still think of her every day.

To my parents who I will miss

Russ Martin- June 19,2006
Deborah Landrie(Martin)- July 6th 2006

You will be deeply missed by your kids and grandkids

Calvin,Rob, and Brian Huschka
Mike Anderson
Cindy White
Dave Wagner

Frank Hasapis
Mosey (Lara) Lahn

Class of '75

Class of 1970:

Charlie Kegel
Bingo Caekart
Gayle Rolf
Mike Anderson
Bill Pauley
Stan Gall
Ron Turley
Christine Payne

Mark Brown - Class of 1969

tonight is the first Cowgirls game since Darby Nicholas passed. He loved the Cowgirls, and it will be weird being in the booth without him. We miss him greatly.

Slosh

Class of '76
Brent Babcock
Gloria Young
Rhonda Ryum
Dennis Schultz
Ed McMillan
David Jablinski
Rick Jones
Eric Hawkinson

too many

Dan Worlie[Griz]
Terry Stubblefield

both good friends that left us too early

To Barb Holcomb,

I would like to say THANK YOU for remembering my Brother, Ben - a short man with a severe Napoleon complex...and always the guts to back it up. His death was certainly a tragedy - 3 months after his wedding he was diagnosed with the cancer that eventually took his life - he fought hard and made the most of what he had left.

Others I would like to mention:

Scott Hathaway - my '86 SHHS classmate
Troy Atkinson - a good kid who was still just a kid when God took him
Stacy Elliott - epilepsy took her as a teenager
Cindy Kay - my KATL co-worker tragically murdered in Colorado
Steven Miller - a fellow radio person whose parachute failed on his last dive
Someone else mentioned the 3 Huschka brothers - my heart goes out to Clarence, Ann, and all their remaining children
Paul Hazelton and Kim Stabio (previously mentioned)- taken by cystic fibrosis

All of these and a few others remind me of one thing - cherish life while you have it. Rest in peace.

Can't forget Ron Halsey, Played with the Miles City Band Phoenix!! Great Guy!

One other one for now:

Pat Flaherty the firefighter.

...and a couple other youngsters:

Andy Hegel
Dawn Lopez

...OOPS!! Sorry -

I meant MICHELLE Lopez...
Dawn's sister - Dawn's still alive as far as I know.

The class of 68:

Along with the already mentioned Gary Begalkie:

Don Cory: Killed in an avalanch on new years day climbing a mountain. Don was one of the best men I ever knew, a good friend, and I will always miss him.

Jim Watson: Killed in a car wreck. Jim and I did not always get along but we were just before he died and he was an interesting guy and some part of the world is a little duller since his death.

Marc Richardson: Used to be City Manager.

Don Sprandle: Killed in a construction accident.

Jim Brushwein: Played in the band with him, not sure what happened to him just heard he was gone.

I know I have missed some mayby someone could fill some in. I thought it would be appropriate for a girl from my class to fill in the girls that may not be with us.

A few of the upper class guys I really miss are Gordie Nation from the class of 67. I also really miss my old buddy Frankie Thompson from the class of 66. Frankie taught me how to paint and perfatape and that made me a lot of money through the years.

A few of the underclass guys of course were Bruce Baker, Robin Rhoads, Paul Grenz, Danny Phallen, and of many more.

Leif Ronning class of 68

Thanks for remembering my uncle, Don Sprandel.

I would like to remember my grandparents, Thelma and Walt Sprandel, my aunt, Mary Lou Hampton and my cousin who recently passed, Brian Kolka.

Just wanted to remember my mother and grandfather at this time:

Karel "Sue" (Kosty) (Elliot) Rude died November 7, 2003 CCDHS class of 1961

Victor Kosty died May 14, 2004

I would like to remember
Will Ferrin-my good friend that just should still be here
Rod Green-one of the craziest guy I ever called my friend
Matt Zook-he always had time to talk and say hi
A.C. Ricket-just an all around great guy
and alot more that you all have already spoke of

When did Matt Zook pass away?

Matt died in 2000 in a car crash

Was he in your class or am I thinking of Mark? Or am I just completely wrong all the way around?

Esther Ulrich- she ran the Eagles club and did many benefits and weddings for many people, she is missed by all.

Steve Thuelsen- what a funny guy and is missed very much.

Reggie Arnold

I am sorry to hear about Larice, what happened?

Mark Brown and I were junior high sweethearts. I still remember as if it were yesterday. He and his family lived by Wibaux Park. We used to "practice kissing" I think it was new for both of us. I saw him at our 20 year reunion. He told me because of me he got into getting good grades because he didn't want his girlfriend to be smarter than him. It was good to talk to him and catch up. I still have a small red doll (those dwarfs that were popular then, I think they called them troll dolls) that he gave me. I think it was his sister's and I still wonder this many years if she misses it.

Bev Harris (McDowell) sent me his obituary when he passed. He will always have a spot in my heart

I want to thank you Bill for remembering my mom Chris Payne.
Let's also remember my grandfather Pastor Leslie H. Payne.

[This message has been edited by Tara (edited 12/19/2006).]

Sally Magnuson

Les Payne was a co-worker of mine for several years, I went to his bible school when I was a kid, and he preformed the service when I married my first wife. Les was a great guy with a good since of humor and he has been missed. I also knew hs daughter Chris for years and had forgotten she had died.

Thanks to my class mate Mike Moeller for reminding of few I had forgotten from the class of 68:

Mary Dunbar
Curt Luft: Died in Missoula several years ago, I used to hand out with him in Missoula and we had a lot of good times.

Mark Trafton: Also died a few years ago in Missoula. I attended his funeral and he had a good turn out. Mark was a special friend who always brightened things up.

Mike wanted to add the names of some Miles City Guys who died in Vietnam:

Herman Baer
Ronald Derenburger
George Mattocks
Tracey Murrey
Alex Neibaur: I went from the first grade through high school with Alex.
John Yarger

Lets not forget these brave men's contributions!

Leif Ronning class of 68!

John David Friend--Class of '92. Especially keep his family in our prayers during this holiday season.

Monte Moreno

Maria Hasapis

My sis Mary Jo Bonogofsky
Jim Bonogofsky
Mer & Frunk Hasapis : ) Good kids. Tragic
Deb Morel
Billy Rogers
Randy?Carter
Robert??? His sister Carol is married to Blackie Schneider
Brucy Baker
The Grizz He was such a nice guy.
Mr and Mrs Weyerbacuer
Grandma Luke
And MANY MANY more........
Life goes on.

Robert Meyer That was Carol's Brother

I'd like to remember:
Jacque and Richard Hostman
Betty and Jack Pulse
Guy Pulse
Liz Freitas
Randy Olson
Becky Pyle
Richard Marchewitz
Kenith Emeline
Katlynn Erickson
Donald Austin

[This message has been edited by jessiker (edited 1/7/2007).]

Tootz,
Who is Grandma Luke? Just wondering if she is the same person I knew.

Grandma Luke, in years gone by, ran a boarding house near the Millwakee Railroad Station on the 800 block of North Cottage. I think she was 102 when she passed, give or take a year or two.
Wonderful woman. Her son lives in the house now, Harold Luke. He is quite the guy. Very interesting. The last I knew he still goes sking in Bozeman every year, must be in his 80's. Is this the same lady you knew?

Same lady....I sent you an email with further details.

Could somebody tell me what happened to Michelle Lopez? I'm pretty sure I went to Washington Middle School with her in 86-87. While I didn't know her all that well, she was a classmate.

Recognize a few names on that list and it's really quite sad.

Michelle died after a long battle with cancer.

That's correct on Michelle, Kasey;

Specifically, what happened was this: Michelle was in a car accident. She was okay, but her leg was hurt. When they X-rayed her leg they found the cancer - she evidently never knew she had it before then. She was treated for the cancer, but it was apparantly too far-advanced for the treatment or even amputation to save her...that was a sad turn of events.

As long as this thread has been refreshed, I'd like to add a couple more names of cancer victims I'd like to offer my respects for:

Lloyd Wolff: I know Arby, Tammy and others in the family still think about him often. He was a good guy.

Anthony Cruise: none of you knew him, but he was my father-in-law. He just passed in January and he was a good man, as well.

I am not sure of these dates when they happened but I heard it.

Jack Kope
Monte Tredway


Greg Olson?
I went to school with Greg
Class of 78

Mary Wallick
Class of 1981. Passed away April 3rd '07, cancer.

Bob (Robert) Koehler
Class of 1980. Passed away in February 28th '07, cancer.

Mary Wallick... The world became dimmer today.

Bee Bee died?? (mary, you always kept us honest) I will miss her. Wally Hedge and Charlie Hall....we started first grade together. My good friend and neighbor, Ron Halsey. Edith (his mom) just passed recently in Billings. Howard L, I have a strong feeling our paths will cross again some day and something tells me you'll have a pole in your hands. I have much to thank you for.....my kids will NEVER gross me out!! Lets not forget Duncan's folks either; you handled that with grace, my friend......and yes, it was hand spun. Thanks people....it is good to remember....yes it is.

Our classmates gone now from Class of 74:

Jerry Lund, Paula Carlson, Mark Niedge, Bryan Clark, Michelle Green,
Juanita Jones, Mike Hawkinson, Larry MacKenzie, Lonnie Knopp, Terry Stubblefield, Jim Peterson, Marilyn Schied, Bonnie Mendenhall, Lee Keller, Bobbi Kercheval, Tommy Crandall, Terry Feist, Tim Taylor.

Too many gone........

A special place in my heart for Lana Smith "Lana Bannana" died from Breast Cancer 1996. Class of '84.

Let's all take a minute to remember all the people killed recently while serving our country! Amen to those people!

Mary Wallick's funeral will be Monday 4/9 in Kansas City. Stuart Brown will be the speaker for Mary's 'Celebration of Life'. I saw your post Chris Peterson remembering 'Bee Bee'. If you or anyone else has any memories for Stuart that would be great. If anyone is interested in coming we'd love to see you.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Is there an obituary posted somewhere? Or a guest book to sign?

Charla Johnston died April 4th from kidney failure.

Mary's obituaries and guest books are not set up yet. An obituary is sent in to the Miles City Star and will probably in the paper today. As soon as I have the info/guest books for the Kansas City and Minneapolis papers I will post it. Mary and Eddie lived and met in Mpls. and Mom, Paul, Mike, Susan and I live in Mpls. Bill is in MC. Mary resided in Kansas City and has 2 children Sophie and John. She previously had 2 daughters die of cancer. It is so sad. To give a memory to Stuart look at the posting above from scb and click on scb to send him a private e*mail. Sorry Stu if you were going incognito.

If you would like to view/sign Mary Wallick Connor's guest book, here is the website for the obituary which was in the Kansas City Star.
http://www.legacy.com/kansascity/DeathNotices.asp

If you have trouble, go to kansascity.com and click on obituaries.

Go to search options (3rd box). Search by last name. Connor.
She is the 3rd one down, Mary Catherine Connor.

Thanks to all for the private messages, flowers, and cards. Miles City is a caring place.

Nancy, I have so many childhood memories of Mary, as does my whole family. My sisters still think of her as "little Mary." Two weeks ago when we were home sorting through boxes at Dad's, I found my elementary school scrapbook and Mary was on every page. I am so glad I knew her and thankful that I crossed paths with her and Ed as adults in Kansas. Time goes so fast, and losses like this make us realize how significant all the little moments are...like having mudfights across the back fence with Stuart Brown and using Mrs. Wallick's spoons as grenade launchers...trying to keep up with Mary for the short time I thought I'd be on the golf and tennis teams...sharing laughs in Econ and other CCDHS classes...I wish she was here now to reminisce. She definitely made the class of 1981 a better place. To you, Paul, Bill, Mike and your Mom...please know she will remain an important part of Miles City memories for me and for all those who were lucky enough to know her.
Mimi (Mathers) Meredith

Linda Lee Montgomery Class of 1981

Linda Lee Montgomery-Seitz
MISSOULA - Linda Lee Montgomery-Seitz, 44, passed away of natural causes Friday, April 6, 2007, at Community Medical Center, Missoula, after a short illness.
She was born Dec. 14, 1962, in Gulfport, Miss., to Ted and Fern Montgomery. Linda grew up in Lakeside, Laurel, Havre and Kinsey. She spent much of her time in 4-H, and enjoyed sewing, cooking and her sheep projects. She played clarinet and sang in choir in both high school and college, traveling throughout Montana. She graduated from Custer County District High School in 1981. She majored in history and political science and got her BA from Rocky Mountain College in Billings in 1986.
In 1988, she moved to Missoula, where she met her husband, Michael. They were married July 9, 1994, and had their child, Chester, on Jan. 8, 1997. She loved her family; they were most precious to her in her life.
Linda volunteered at the Missoula Public Library and then was employed with a Missoula food distributor before beginning employment with Missoula County at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula. She enjoyed her time working there and also worked as a volunteer.
Linda worked as a clerk at Justice Court from 2000 until her untimely passing. She was a very private person, but on occasion her wry sense of humor would come through at the most unexpected yet appropriate time. She was stubborn, smart and spoke her mind and let others speak their minds too.
Linda was active in the Society for Creative Anachronism and was engaged in making candles, knitting, sewing and other crafts. She also enjoyed music and solitude.
She is survived by her loving husband, Michael, and son Chester Seitz, both of Missoula; her parents, Ted and Fern Montgomery of the family home in Kinsey; sister Rosalie (Rory) Richoux, niece Kelsey and nephew Kyle of LaPlace, La.; brother Daniel Montgomery of Miles City; sister Nancy (Rich) Whipple and nephews Jeremy and Collin of Norfolk, Va.; and half-brother Richard Peterson, nephew Alex and niece Rebecca of Billings.
Services were held April 10 and remains were interred at the Missoula City Cemetery.

Kathie....

What happened to Monte Tredway?

jessiker please email me

Jaclyn Boyle aka Lyn Helton...died November, 1971 at the Childrens Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Jackie left behind her 18 month old daughter, Jennifer. Jennifer never had the opportunity to know the beautiful person her mother was. The book by Norma Klein, "Sunshine" whose title is all one needs to know to understand Jackie. I spent three years with Jackie Boyle being her best friend while she was a student at CCHS. We parted when Jackie moved to Walden, Colorado but exchanged letters until she was stricken with osteo sarcoma.

I was living in Oceanside, California when I discovered Jackie had passed away. Something told me to buy the Sunday LA Times and I did. In it I found the article about her death. Similar occurrences happened with the Woman's Day and Reader's Digest magazines, all of which carried articles about her death and a picture of Jennifer sitting on Jackie's lap. I never purchased those magazines until something told me to. After the first incident with the LA Times, I realized who was telling me to buy them. Years later I found out that Jennifer has not been told who her mother really was. Jackie's family has informed me that Jennifer was led to believe things about her mother that are certainly untrue and need to be rectified. When I was told about this I quickly realized the purpose in buying the magazines showing pictures of mother and daughter. A daughter who meant so much to Jackie that she spent the last year of her life spending five to six hours a day writing letters to Jennifer and worrying about what will happen to her little girl after she is gone. Jennifer has been estranged from Jackie's entire family until the last two years. The purpose will soon unfold!

Antonia

Wow-I loved the movie "Sunshine (cried buckets of tears and probably still have the book somewhere)-and I didn't know it was about someone who grew up in Miles City! Just for more background (I was so young when that movie came out) I googled some information about Lyn Boyle Helton (brings back memories)

http://imdb.com/title/tt0...ercomments

Video available of an interview with her: http://openweb.tvnews.van...BS-17.html

http://www.google.com/sea...lyn+helton

Jackie grew up in Colorado. Her step father was a ranch hand for a rancher at Tongue River. The family moved here in the 1960's. Some still live in Miles City.

My Mother and A great Nurse
grandmother, friend, sister, mother
We will always remember:

Linda Stoldorf Worrell 10-03-2000

I too remember watching "Sunshine" as a child. It must have affected me deeply since I never forgot about this movie. Sometimes I wondered if I just imagined the story since haven't seen it since. I did remember "'Sunshine on my Shoulders" was the theme, I thought it might be the title of the movie as welll. Anyway, for those of you interested in obtaining a copy, I think I found a good link
http://www.jdvds1994.com/...mowch.html

Shawn Myran and AC Rickett--two people from my class (of '93) that passed on too soon. Both a little wild, but very sweet guys.

Paula Sand
Shelly Nelson
Kelly Mason

Unfortunately,

I just found out about Nicki Dean and his car accident. My prayers go out to his family.

Amy,

What happened to John Friend?

[This message has been edited by Jeremy Orthman (edited 5/2/2007).]

Yes, blessings to the Dean family.

I was friends with Greg (his older brother) throughout a lot of our boyhood days in school. Nikki was a fun and delightful little guy to have around us. No doubt he became a fine and good man.

Although I have never lived in nor have had the please to visit Miles City I would like to remember four people who were (and still are) the conerstone of my world and who did live in Miles City.

My Grandfather John George Beeler Jr., his wife Monica P. Brath and her sisters Maree and Polly.

Sadly I never was able to ask them about thier time in Miles City but I've found out (thanks to many nice people here on this board) quite a bit about them and the city they lived in.

Kyle

I know this is a sad thread, but I had to refresh it...

First of all, to Jeremy;

Encase nobody else emailed you about this: info I was given on John Friend was that he died in a household accident - a fall down a set of stairs. I was deeply saddened by the news...when I was the sports director at KATL in the early-90's I watched John and his cousin Tooke play both football and basketball together while I called the play-by-play.

There are a couple others not yet mentioned who deserve respects even though I wasn't too close to most of them:

Cliff Sisko - a fellow 1986 graduate who died suddenly and tragically at home. I wish to thank his sister, Lori, for discussing that with me recently even though I know it's still not easy for her to deal with.

Eddie Derrig Sr. - he was full of p and v, but Sacred Heart could not have asked for a better fan.

Mrs. Makelky - I was her gazette paper boy for a couple years, and she was always kind, and never seemed to have a bad thing to say about anybody.

Agnes Munsell - I never heard a bad thing said about her.

Dan Farias and Tracy Lohoff - though I never knew them, my association with them is as an "alum" of KATL - they had worked together there before my time and they "hit it off" and eventually got married, had kids, and then one day they died together in a car accident in the Bozeman area where they had been living. I was working with Cindy Kay Lehman at the time, and she was particularly devistated by that news as well as the murder of another friend of hers: Marie Sparks - which happened at around the same time. As I mentioned earlier in this thread; Cindy was eventually murdered herself...why this has to happen at all, I don't know, and I wish it didn't.

Roy and Clara Milligan - they were my next-door neighbors and served as surrogate grandparents to me and my siblings since we lived too far from our real grandparents to spend much time with them. Clara always had cookies and milk ready for us whenever we came by and she was a really sweet lady. God bless her.

A couple other Sacred Heart students who died in tragic accidents during junior high: Rick Kearns, and Renee Machika.

I will echo the question asked by "deer slayer": I wonder what happened to Monte Treadway, myself. He was several grades below me but still a schoolmate for a couple years back then...anyone know what happened?

That's it for now...may all our departed loved ones rest in peace.

It was 11 years ago today that we had the funeral for my grandpa Buren Bonine. In some ways it seems like it was just yesterday, in other ways it seems like it was much longer. Minutes before he died, he was in another world, his lips were moving as though he was talking to someone. And then he "came too" said "I am going fishing" and closed his eyes and passed from this life to the next. Sometimes I need to slow down and remember....

[This message has been edited by Richard Bonine, Jr (edited 5/17/2007).]

Shelly Nelson? From the class of '82? I didn't know she had passed.

Shelley Nelson was from the class of 1985 and passed away in 1995.

Dan Sterling
Bryon Hushka
They didn't make it through high school. I don't think we will ever understand the burdens they carried.

Bryon Huschka did make it through high school, he passed away in Sept. of 1997.

Dan died first at Easter. He didn't make to graduation.

My apologies on the error regarding Bryon graduating.

still trying to find out about Monte Tredway?????

I could be totally wrong about this, but I think that Monte was killed in an accident in or near the underpass in Miles City.

Monte Tredway was killed in a car accident on his way to work in Wy. Jack Kope was killed in wreck at the under pass with Monte as his rider.

It has been a year since Jennifer and Hayley Martin died, daughter and granddaughter to Steve Harris.

Many of us carry many burdons on our shoulders and sometimes the weight is too much too bare.
My condolences go out to the family of:
Christopher Maze(2003)
and his mother,
Pandora Millerbernd(2005)!

Today is June 4th and it is a day I will remember the rest of my life --- today is the 30th anniversary of the death of my friend Laurie Wilson........ she is with me still and I think of her soooooo often.. I pray for her sister Linda and the family when I think of her...She was such a hoot to hang with back in the 70's- Here's to you Laurie ---- RIP I miss you.

Will Hampton was killed in a car accident on July 4th. See Stevenson and Son's web site for obituary.

Today's my birthday and I want to remember the woman who made that event possible - in memory of my Mom, Jane Hammond who died from cancer February '06. Mom was the Sacred Heart Elem secretary for many years.

Hey Curt!

Happy birthday to you and my belated condolences on the loss of your mom...yes, as a Sacred Heart alum myself, I do remember her well. Sorry for your loss, but I hope you manage to enjoy your day despite that. She was a good-hearted lady, indeed.

By the way, I'm also sorry to hear about Will Hampton...I didn't know him real well, but I do remember that I played little guy hockey with him one year as a kid...he was one of the better players on my team. May he rest in peace.

Thanks Shu
And my condolences to you on the loss of Ben, I wasn't aware of his death and it really made me sad - I have some great memories of him when we were buds in grade school and spending time at your house. Please give my belated condolences to your family and take care.

Curt,
Do you have a brother named Mark? Corvallis?

What a shock to look up Stevenson and Sons and see Will's name there. I didnt find out about it until the day before the funeral or I would have been there. I feel for Bill. I grew up with Will and have spent the last few days regaling my daughter with the stories of my youth of which he was a large part.

Wow, I didn't realize Mrs. Hammond (as I always knew her) had passed on. She was a great person - one of my best memories at Sacred Heart was going to get copies from Mrs. Hammond in the office!! (and I'm actually old enough to remember the purple copies - mimeographs?)

She definitely touched a lot of lives at the school and will always be fondly remembered.

Dick Kolka died last week of a heart attach. RIP Dick. Between the Kolkas, Sprandels and the Hathaways it has been a tough year. Keep your heads up guys and God Bless. See ya soon, Kirby.

I just recently came across this website. I didn't actually know it existed until very recently. This discussion is about remembering classmates and fellow teachers that have passed on. I would like to tell you about one incredible individual who taught a couple of generations of families in Miles City. He was a junior high social studies, english, and spanish teacher. He was larger than life. He always had a funny story to tell. He loved kids. He was always for the underdog. He was a generous, compassionate, and loving person. He didn't care about money, status, or prestige. He just loved people. He never met a stranger. He genuinely cared about people. He treated you like gold the first time he met you and in every encounter thereafter. He had the most beautiful smile. He lit up the room. He never had a bad day. He was the supreme optimist. He was never down or sad. He achieved greatness in his life. He did this by just being himself. I got to know him very well. He was my seventh grade social studies teacher. Mr. Fretland was my teacher and he was my father. I am his daughter Elin. I thought I should write and let people who might otherwise not know that he passed away on September 28, 2006. He was just three weeks shy of his 81st birthday. He was in great health. He didn't look or act 80 years old. He was working on a screen play at the time of his death. He passed away at home from a heart attack. It looks like he died instantly. He went the way he would've wanted to. What I want to say about my father is that he had a great impact on kids and so many people in Miles City. When he passed away, many people were shocked and devastated. It was so hard to lose him. I'm not just saying this for myself but for so many other people in the community as well. He touched so many people's lives. If we all encounter one person like my dad, we are so lucky and blessed. He was the most amazing person I've ever known in my life. Well, my husband comes in a close second. I would like to hear from anyone who had my father as a teacher. If you have any stories you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you. I've started collecting stories from people that I'm going to compile and put in book form to honor him. I don't live in Miles City and so it's hard for me to get stories from people. I feel this is one of the best ways to get the word out. If my father told a funny story that you remember or he did something funny in his classes, please do get in touch with me to share it. It is so wonderful for me to hear from people who had my dad for a teacher and have a story to tell. Thanks for your time.
Elin Ahmadpour
Al Ain, The United Arab Emirates
e-mail: [email protected]

Elin,
My strongest memory of your father was in 8th grade. He heard I wasn't going to take Spanish in high school and was very upset with me. By then he had taught me well and I was very fluent. When I told him I was going to take Latin with Inga Hanson he then conceded that it might be ok, but to not stop with my spanish. I often wished I had stopped by to tell him that I aced ten credits of spanish in college. To say thank you. But time and life fly by. You have my sympathies on your loss. I also believe you lost a daughter right before your father died. Again, you were and are in my thoughts and prayers.

The two things that come to mind when I think of Mr. Fretland are:

1.) A fantastic teacher and human being
2.) Lemon pepper steaks

My greatest sympathy for you and your Mom, Elin. He is truly missed! Denise.

Kacey:
Thank you for your wonderful message and memories of my father. You're right that my husband and I lost a daughter last year. We come back to Miles City every summer for two months to visit. We live overseas and only come back in the summers. We were here last summer visiting and my pregnancy went terribly wrong. The university that I teach at in The United Arab Emirates gave me a two month maternity leave from the end of August until the end of October. Normally, my husband and I are here from June until August. It's amazing how things work in this world. If I hadn't been granted that maternity leave I wouldn't have been in Miles City when my dad passed away. I'm really glad I wasn't half way around the world when he passed. By the way, I had never really seen my dad cry until we had the funeral for our infant daughter. He was so looking forward to having another grandchild. However, I'm comforted by the fact that he had four wonderful months last year to play and hang out with our six-year-old son. I miss him terribly. He was an outstanding human being. It really is a great loss for the community of Miles City.

Gerald Stewart passed away yesterday.

He was a wonderfully kind man.

Antonia,
I would like to find out more info on Lyn Helton. I have searched the internet over and I am not finding much. I would like to see a picture of her and find out what happened to her husband Tom? Does her daughter know who her mother was? Any info you have would be greatly appreciated. I was and still am effected by her life and story.

JodyK

I was shocked to see Gerald Stewarts' obit and attended his funeral yesterday. Gerald was my first friend here in Miles City.
I'll miss him dearly.

[This message has been edited by Tony Ackerman (edited 7/29/2007).]

Hi all!

Been a long time since I've talked to most of you. I just got word from Carol that Dion Huber (Class of '88) passed away today after a long battle with cancer. Most anyone knows her or her family. She was one of the most courageous people I ever met! She always had a smile, a joke, and usually a witty comeback for everyone. Proof positive that dynamite comes in small packages! She will be sorely missed by all who had the good fortune to have her in their lives.

Her family and friends are in my prayers and I know that she's in a better place now.

Amen, to that Kevin! Dion was an awesome fighter for all the health issues she has had to face her entire life. She definately could outwit anyone she met...I'm sure the Good Lord has His hands full with her!!! We'll miss her here but she is finally at peace!

Oh, man...I'm bummed to hear about Dion's passing
I remember her from the high school days - she was 2 years behind and, yes, she had health issues back then, too. All the Hubers are good people...my sincere best wishes to them all as well as condolences.

Another classmate from the CCDHS class of 81 has passed:

Diane (Flower) Fisher
Visitation: Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City with family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m
Funeral Service: will be held on Monday, August 20, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. in the LDS Chapel, 825 Moorehead in Miles City
Interment: will follow in the Custer County Cemetery

Diane Marisa Flower Fisher passed away in her sleep on August 14, 2007. Born April 5, 1963 in Madrid, Spain, she was adopted as an infant and lived in Spain for a year before returning to the U.S. with her family and spent most of her growing-up years in Miles City, Montana.

Diane graduated from Custer County High School in 1981 and then moved to Denver, Colorado, where she met and later married David Fisher. They have two sons: Brandon, 21; and Bryce, 15; who reside in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Diane loved craft-making, gardening, cooking-baking-canning, and her beloved pets. She enjoyed singing with her special friend of many years, Herron Nelson. She especially loved her boys and was so proud of them. Plagued by illness throughout her life, she spent her final years confined to a wheelchair while living in Spokane, Washington, hoping for the day she might walk again. We believe she is walking now, surrounded by loved ones who have gone on before her.

Diane is survived by her parents, Judson and Juanita Flower, long-time residents of Miles City now living in Billings; her sons Brandon and Bryce; her sister, Joan Rudd of Bellingham, Washington; and two brothers: Thomas, currently working and living with his family in Kuwait; and Benjamin of Snoqualmie, Washington. Diane will be buried in the family plot in Custer County Cemetery, Miles City, Montana.

Visitation will begin on Sunday, August 19, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City with family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 20, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. in the LDS Chapel, 825 Moorehead in Miles City.

Willie King. A good man and a hero to his country.

You've got that right Mike. Willie was an all around nice guy and a good friend of mine for many years. He will be missed.

Joan,
I also remember that day. Karrie Venn, Laurie Wilson, David, all died in that Pinto coming off the hill. The survivors and friends think of them often. I hope she is in good place and you never saw one set of twins without the other set of twins.

Sharon O'Connor

I had Mr. Letke in 1976,77, and 78. He was the teacher you wanted to have for History. He would dress up in a costume and he had that little finger that would stick out. He also had that crazy mustache. I enjoyed his classes, and you never fell asleep in them.

There were two girls killed in that car wreck. One was Laurie Wilson and the other was Kerrie Venn. There surviving twins are Linda Wilson and Sherry Venn. Also I am trying to think of David's last name. He also died in that car wreck. Cindy Stein was thrown from the car and spent a long time in Holy Rosary Hospital. I want to think Cindy Gunther was in the car but I am not sure. She is still alive as far a I know. They had 6 or 7 people crammed into that Pinto when they were coming down the hill. They lost control and I do not remember who was thrown and I do know that the guy was decapitated. May God Bless there Souls I was in there class of 78

When did Greg pass away. He used to run with Mike Swope.

Linda Wilson November 5 2007
God Bless Her

To the best of my recollection, Kerri Venn wasn't killed in that fateful car accident in '77. We lost Laurie Wilson and David Wegner that night. As far as I know Kerri is still alive, however, she lost her twin sister, Sherri in 2005 from cancer. My sister Yvonne still has memories of coming from behind the accident scene. Laurie Wilson and now her twin sister, Linda are gone and so very missed. Always missed and never forgotten. Also, I lost my sweet brother, Bob this year and life will never be the same without his smile.

[This message has been edited by Debbie Koehler-Jurad (edited 11/9/2007).]

Also, I wanted to separately pay tribute to one of my best high school friends, Cindy White Cameron. Her death in a car accident in 98' was the most shocking event in my life. She kept me smiling, laughing and always appreciating life.

Who were the Venns who lived in a pink house over by the Holy Rosary hospital (that was just demolished)?

For the record. The kids in the car were Laurie Wilson, Linda Wilson, Sherri Venn, Cindy Stein, Charlie Hall and Dave Wagner. Laurie Wilson and Dave Wagner were killed in the accident. Linda wilson spent about a month in St. Vincents in Billings.

Sherri Venn died of cancer in Oregon in 2005.


Off the record.

Laurie was driving

Charlie Hall supposedly died of an overdose in the 1980's?

It could be said tha the last victim, Linda Wilson died on Monday.

Hi Debbie,
Yes, It is very sad about Linda. When I was home this summer I spent a hour visiting with her and her daughter. She was trying to get her life back in order. I also visited with her brother Tim who is very sick with brain cancer. My heart goes out to their mom Connie.

I was so sorry to here about your brother, God bless.

Are you still in Nv?

Tammy Brenenr (Walterson)

Elin,

My condolences on the recent passing of your mother. Mrs. Fretland. I remember my study hall class with her at Washington School in the early 80s. She had me so scared to talk that first week I think I was afraid to ask to go to the bathroom. But in reality I think she was a little bit of a softy if you followed her rules. By the end of the semester i remember being allowed to play checkers if you had your homework done.

I've mentioned previously to you the many times in 7th grade geography at Washington when we could get your father to go off the book's subject and talk about growing up on a farm with his father and the way things were "back then." He would talk about the big draft horses and horse team and all the paraphenalia they used to pull with them and the various tack. He was usually smiling and always encouraging.

Some other Miles Citians I would like to remember that i haven't seen mentioned previously...

*Danny Sterling who I used to babysit and his many shenanigans with my brother victor with fireworks and other explosives.
*His mom Linda Sterling Coates who was librarian at CCDHS for many years from 80s-90s and had a great passion for the disenfranchised.
*Kevin Holmlund who left too early.
*Mary Milmine who mothered many teens here in MC including myself.
*Edith Combs longtime resident who made me laugh, her son Bill who warmed my heart, and her daughter Marion Willson aka Ducko (sp?) who recently passed with great courage.
*Irene Wilson who always had a smile and baked amazing rolls.
*Ethel Bender with her quiet smile and who enhanced her jello casserole at church potlucks with chopped celery or sour cream or carrot gratings.
*Vera Young who could never celebrate a birthday enough times and loved children so much.
*Bernie Bowman who always wore a hat with style and had a kind word. Her husband Lloyd who always had a smile and left too soon.
*Chris kirkowski who I didn't know personally but took his father's heart when he died (our class watched it happen).
*Roberta Ellerd, our neighbor and friend for so many years.
*Al Honstain and his love of Hobo Stew fun.
*Anna Rumph, wearer of purple hats.
*Jane Jones and her laughter and understanding of "shenanigans" and children.
*Dennis Blunt who struggled for so long, but always was someone you could count on.

and so many more that I'll remember after I logoff. I guess celebrating All Saints Day has started me remembering back when...

-sincerely, christina vosen ostendorf

Hi everyone!
I'm Andre Luiz, from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.I'm 33 y.o., and I'm a Psychology student in my city.I found your virtual forum,when searched for some piece of information about Mrs. Jacquelyn Helton,the young lady who has inspired "Sunshine" movie, in november 9th, 1973 (16 days before I was born!). It was a great surprise, to find out she had lived in your nice city, because there is no info about her on net,as you possibly know. I've read Mrs. Klein's post (april, 22nd 2007),talking about her friendship with Jacquelyn,when they were students in Custer County High School.She showed caress and respect for Lyn's memory,and worry about possible untrue things that Lyn's daghter,Jennifer,was led to believe about her mother.
You may ask:"hey,why this man, from a very distant place, would be interested in this case?"
I explain: as millions of people,I saw "Sunshine" when I was a boy, in 1984, just one time,and from that day, I never forgot this sweet and touching story.But, only this year,I decided to search information about Heltons in internet,'cause after my graduation on College,on next 2008 August,I intend to work with terminal patients, and I think it's a "Sunshine" inspiration,because in all of my life, I tried in some way to help people who had lost people.And I think Jacquelyn gave a lovely example of love and strength, that many of us maybe could not give. So, as a tribute to her memory, I have created a virtual memorial on Findagrave site.You all are friendly invited to visit it, if you want to leave some words of respect and caress for her. And if someone can help me, by adding information about her life, as her birth date and place (she wasn't from Montana,I guess),I'll be very greatful.She was a Miles City resident, and I think this would be a fair attitude,wouldn't it?
I apreciate very much the american way to honor her beloved ones who passed on.Your graveyards are very beautyful, they transmit peace and respect.Wish we could do the same here.
Wel, I made a direct link, so you don't need to make any search on site, but if you want to do it, by safety,feel free.
I thank everyone for visiting, and for any information adds to the memorial.
And if you want to visit a blog made by a friend of mine, in honor to Jacquelyn's and our beloved John Denver's memories, feel free, it's gonna be a pleasure for us. She made some vídeos, with phtos of "Sunshine" and Rockies. Unfortunatelly, the texts are only in portuguese, but we intend to translate them to our american friends.

The links are:
-Jacquelyn Marie "Lyn" Helton Memorial


http://www.findagrave.com...=22809811&

-Maquina do Tempo (time machine)

http://makinadotempo.blogspot.com

With much respect, and greatfulness
Andre

Wow,I just spent almost an hour reading this thread. I'm in shock as to how many people I know/knew have passed away. Many I did know about, but several I didn't. A great way to keep people informed..

We should all count our blessings for every day we have in this life.

Andre,

Thank you for sharing and providing a tribute to Jackie. I am not surprised Jackie's influence has reached you so far away. If you only knew her strength, convictions and devotion to her daughter, her friends and her family. When Jackie and I were together she influenced me and continues to do so more than thirty five years after her passing. If it were not for her proding any self confidence or self esteem I carry today would not exist. The lesson to be learned in part from our friendship applies to everyone. You just never know when you have entertained angels unaware.

Peace,

Antonia

Hello, everyone!

It is a nice pleasure to have found this forum, and I thank my friend Andre for that! I am Marianna, from Brazil.

When I was a child I was deeply touched by a wonderful film called "Sunshine" - the Jacquelyn Helton's life story. Since then, I spent many years searching news about Jacquelyn Helton. Her story worked as an unexpected good surprise in my life, and I always felt the impulse of trying to find out more about her. This year many things happened concerning that wish and a virtual tribute to Jacquelyn Helton could be built just like being guided by some kind of magic.

I believe it is very important to recognize the whole importance of such a beautiful existence, a so young lady that could teach important lessons of love, power, courage, wisdom and respect for life.

I also had read Mrs. Klein's notes and I thank her for those. It is possible to note her respect for Jacquelyn Helton's memories and some kind of worry about Jennifer beliefs concerning her mother. Anyway, I believe it is important to try to light up memories about Jacquelyn Helton and I agree with Mrs. Klein in her note posted on 4/22/2007, it is also important to try to rectify every kind of mistake that maybe could have been done.

I reinforce the invitation made by my friend Andre and ask you, please, to visit those indicated virtual places created as a tribute of respect.

Thank you so much! My best regards to all.

[This message has been edited by Marianna Pessoa (edited 11/15/2007).]

[This message has been edited by Marianna Pessoa (edited 11/15/2007).]

Could someone tell me what happened to Chris Kurkowski? Was he the one his dad, George, called "Bear?" I really loved George as a teacher; he made you think. I do remember him talking about a son named "Bear". Thanks.

Chris was a 1982 graduate of Custer County District High School and a 1986 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He was among 10 soldiers who died from injuries in an Army helicopter crash in Texas in February 1988.

Yes, I believe George did refer to him as 'Bear'. I had forgotten about that.

Thanks so much, Katherine...Chris' family must have been so proud of him graduating West Point. So sorry to hear of his loss.

I am a little fuzzy on the details so this may not be 100% accurate. I aplogoze for anything that isnt accurate. As I recall, there was an in flight fire on the helicopter
which made an emergency landing in a field near Fort Worth. I beleive there were survivors. Something makes me think Chris was flown to the Burn Unit at Brook Army Hospital in San Antonio where he subcumbed to his injuries.

Chris' death was very sad. George was never the same. He was another of those teachers you could get off topic by a simple question about his kids. He sure did know his stuff about gov't. the Kurkowski's are a great family and I have enjoyed knowing all of them.

Correct me if I am wrong but I think Bear is actually the nickname for his other son Tom

Oh I think you are right Allison! The son whom George referred to as 'Bear' is Tom who has since named his son after Chris.

What happened with Linda Wilson? It seemed that things were going ok for her. The obit doesn't list a cause of death.

Kuhlmeyer -

Please reference following link to story in The Billings Gazette...

http://billingsgazette.ne...inmate.txt

[This message has been edited by Katherine D. Akiti (edited 11/19/2007).]

[This message has been edited by Katherine D. Akiti (edited 11/19/2007).]

Hi Kitten. You got me there for a second when you knew my name. Good to see you.
Yes Tom does have two sons and I am sure one is named son named Christopher K also.

How tragically depressing. Thanks Katherine.

A tragedy which began over 30 years ago on a hot, sultry night, June 4, 1977 has now taken another victim.

Dear Cory,
Thank you so much for the kind words you wrote about Chris. I don't know if you have been back to Miles City lately, but Tom does have 2 sons and his oldest is Chris. Peg and I wish you a blessed holiday season. It doesn't seem possible that it will be 20 years next February that Chris died. It is so nice of you and the others to remember him.
George Kurkowski

My deepest sympathies to Gary Meidinger and his family for the loss of LeAnn. I am thinking of you all in this very tough time.

Christina, its been too long, I hope all is well with you and Mark. Dan and I are in Iowa now and both very home sick.

Thanks for mentioning Mary:
Mary Milmine who mothered many teens here in MC including myself

She was my foster mother and I couldnt have been luckier. She and Waine were always there for me even after I grew up and moved out. They treated me as if I was one of their own children and Waine and I are still in contact quite often.

Lisa Tracy (class of 82)died from Breast Cancer in 2000.

Janelle Chapman (Class of 80) passed away in Feb 2008, colon cancer.


http://www.legacy.com/tuc...=103315747

Is Lisa Tracy the daughter of Ray Tracy, the teacher?

Yes Lisa's Dad was the teacher.

[This message has been edited by Chuck South Jr (edited 2/21/2008).]

Caroline Wetmore (Hay)and Tammy Yankoff. Best friends of mine that couldn't stand each other. They would tolerate each other at a together but you didn't want to get between them - you could get hit with one of them sparks!! I love and miss you both terribly and wish I'd stayed in touch with you better.
-Heather McCracken (Frederick)

Are you just talking about missing your friends or are you saying they have died?

Bret Ellison. The kids and I miss him so much every day

I read that Buddy Wagoner recently passed away. He was the oldest brother of the Wagoner Roofing team, second oldest of all the four brothers.

Good guy, worked hard. I knew Tim and Steve, his younger brothers, and they're good lads, too. It gave me a chance to see Buddy from time to time and I always had great conversations with him and felt welcome whenever I visited.

Hmmmm -- "A penny for your thoughts" The infamous line of Dr. Luther.

I didn't Know Mr. Boe was gone -- I am sorry to hear that. I remember that he got really upset with me because I had been missing so much class and he asked if I would be good enough to grace the class with my presence from then on out and I said yes, but missed the next day.

His son, Bruce Boe, he was my coeditor with me at the Signal Butte. I loved his dry sense of humor.

I went to school with Robert Meyer. He had the most gorgeous blue eyes, I remember how upsetting it was when he passed away!! He was way too young!!

Good Grief Bobbi -- Our class of '74 has sure been hailed. I wanted to add Terry Anderson who left us not long after we graduated.

What Terry Anderson are you talking about?

His Dad was a teacher -- he drove a bright yellow Mach I or II and graduated in '74.

Wow....amazing. I just talked to that Terry Anderson last week. He is alive and well and living in Billings.

[This message has been edited by Kacey (edited 3/10/2008).]

Yes, just talked to Terry last week. He is doing great and plans to attend the reunion.

OH I was kinda freaking out about that too..... he had great parents!

What an awesome thread. Too bad people have let it go by the wayside.

Mr. Anderson (CCDHS teacher). My oldest son made the memorial placque that was presented to Mrs. Anderson at the huge memorial service at the school.
Michelle Lopez. I was her mom's "diaper" when she owned Lil' Darlin's Kitchen and was trying so valiantly to help Michelle fight her battle with cancer.
Shawn Myron. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing him long, but will always remember him as a gregarious, fun-loving young man who could have gone far.
Slim and Loretta Meckle. Knew them almost from the day I moved to Miles City. Rented from them the home I now own. Slim taught my boys their early farming skills. Loretta tried to teach me about gardening, but the garden failed (I still learned a lot from her).
Mr. and Mrs Mallot (lived across Haynes Ave. from the Fretlands). Knew them almost from the time we moved here. Gramma Mallot used to make home made butter, which my hubby just loved.
James Earl ?. Grandson of the Mallots. Loved his 4-H critters, loved to ride horses, and had a love of life beyond compare. I still remember his wonderful smile. I miss him.
Kenneth Emeline. A great, big hearted young man who left us too soon.
Sister Ruth. She was definitely one of a kind. I don't remember her having anything but a smile and kind word, no matter who you were.

I have run out of time, but will add more to this another day. Please let's keep this one going?

OK; I've thought of a few more whom I'd like to remember:
John Lopez: Michelle's father, Bonnie's husband, and a down to earth, quiet, yet funloving guy.
Zonda, Kenneth E's mom. You just had to love her.
Bonnie Winkley; I didn't know her well, but liked what I did know of her.

I'm rather ashamed to say that I can think of many other people, but for the life of me their names escape me. I hope He will forgive me that.

One omission I've noticed in the recent postings of those who have passed on, would have to be one of my favorite teachers, Paul Armstrong. I'm not sure of the exact tenure of his teaching years as CCDHS's shop, welding, and metal fabricating teachings, but his loss was definatly felt by many graduated classes of the 80's and 90's. He battled life head on whether it was a problematic student or personal demons that made for some terribly trying days I'm sure. The kind of teacher who was more like your Dad; patting your shoulder and telling you "good job" on one thing, and smacking you in the back of the head (not literally of course) and wondering "what the heck were you thinking" on the next. I wish I had the patience then that I have now... I'm sure I'd be a MUCH better welder... but no doubt I'm a much better person from being one of his students.

Also a thankyou to Mollie Ostendorf for the mention of my great grandmother and grandmother (Edith Combs and Marian Willson). Both loved to teach the children around them and did so every day of their lives.

Re -- Terry Anderson Sorry about that -- Well, after all these years, it is wonderful to find out that it isn't true!!! I can't remember who told me that he had passed away. Wow it will be great to see him. Thanks.

[This message has been edited by Belinda Maasch Cook (edited 3/10/2008).]

I would like to mention my mom and dad...Don and Janis Goff. I miss them horribly. Mom will have been gone 10 years in April and Dad will have been gone a year in May.

Chris, Thanks for that name. When I said "Mr. Anderson," It was Mr. Armstrong that I meant. Geeesh, what's wrong with my brain anymore??!!

Also I've remembered a couple more:
Donna May Hollowell
Ari Beach

I know Ari has been mentioned, but that's ok. He's worth mentioning over and over again.

Paul Armstrong hit ME in the back of the head on several occasions. My favorite memory of Mr. Armstrong was, on the first day of class my freshman year, he went over how he wanted our papers to be headed:

"Put your name in the upper right hand corner. If your name is '<REDACTED/> You', put '<REDACTED/> You' in the upper right hand corner. Otherwise, I don't want to see '<REDACTED/> You' scratched into any tables or desks"

I want to acknowledge two of my favorite family members who were both CCDHS graduates and have passed on to a better place.

Wes Wells, Jr - 1979 - DOD 1985

Diana Lynn Wells-Carlson - 1971 - DOD 2007

I knew my uncle but only childhood memories. I would appreciate it if someone who remembered my uncle Wes and would share some of their own memories of him. I remember one of his friends being named "Mark", he had blond hair and that's as far as I can remember. I remember one time going to the high school to watch him play basketball when my mom, sister and I came to visit grandma and grandpa.

My dearest aunt Diana. I love this woman very much. She taught my sister and I how to swim and appreciate the things we have, family. When I was a single mother, she was my godsend when it came to clothes with my oldest child. That tradition continued when my youngest was born too. It was heartbreaking to go to Grand Forks, ND for her funeral. My uncle James is doing well. I have fond memories or spending summers with my aunt and uncle here in Miles City and at other towns they lived in.

Just recently read of Mark Forman's fatal ranch accident and was remembering him from High School. I want to express my sadness for the loss to his friends and family, some who post frequently on MC.com. I am sure he will be greatly missed by many.

Dear Cory, are you related to my 1966 classmate Doug Cutting? He was a good friend of my family as my brothers were on the golf team and he and I were were many classes together and both graduated in the Top Ten of our class. The Cuttings also lived near us.

Sorry to learn of his passing several years ago.

Maryann Mahoney McDaniel

I was informed last week that longtime Miles City resident Gena Griswold passed away after a long battle with MS.

This transplanted lady from the South babysat my brothers and I a few times growing-up...she was great with kids and was also a teacher, active in church, and a politician. I have a couple memories of playing with her kids, especially Cheryl and Karl. Our families were good friends as her husband, Bob, was a fellow MCC teacher with my dad for quite a few years.

My condolences to the family on Gena's passing. RIP.

Uh, Maryann, Doug is still alive. As is my old father, at 93. But yes, Doug is my brother. He lives in Seattle now.

I think we need to start a forum....NOT DEAD....pass the word. It's disturbing when people talk about others having passed when they're alive and well.

Kacey,

I couldn't believe it when I read the post about Terry Anderson passing away not long after graduation. I was grateful you corrected that! I was very close to Terry in 1974. I met him when he bumped into the rear of my car with his motorcycle...on purpose. Someone mentioned he had a bright yellow Mach I but I remember it being white with blue racing stripes...unless he painted it. Terry is the absolute best! I remember when he worked at the gas station by the underpass. I am wondering if he plans to attend the All 70's reunion because I would love to see him again.

Antonia

I would like to remember Jane Ness who was a nurse when the clinic when it used to be down town. I believe she was Dr. Bock's nurse. She had a beautiful deep voice and was a great lady and a great nurse. I see she recently passed away and I like to send condolences to the family.
Also I like to remember my Dad and Mom, Nick(1994) and Monty (2003)Russiff and my Aunt Faye Russiff (2001). I sure miss you guys.

[This message has been edited by D Elwood (edited 4/3/2008).]

Antonia,
It was a mustard yellow colored Mach II I believe. I have a photo of us standing in front of his car somewhere in my archives. I will email it if I find it. I have talked to him about the reunion and believe he is going to try and make it. Maybe we should have a special catagory for attendees who have returned from the dead!

Believe me, if I hadn't known he was alive and well it would have upset me even more to read about his supposed death.

Kacey,

Ha! I wonder how many others are presumed deceased?

Terry once put a huge "Malibu" decal in my back window and was always putzing with my car inside and out. He cleaned the entire inside and lifted the hood to show me what appeared to be a sparkling engine. What a difference a mechanically inclined friend makes...

You can email me the pic to [email protected]. That is a 0 (zero. Thanks, Kacey.

Antonia

[This message has been edited by Antonia Klein (edited 4/3/2008).]

[This message has been edited by Antonia Klein (edited 4/3/2008).]

Thanks for info on Doug..will try to attend contact somehow in Washington