RAVALLI COUNTY OBITUARIES
Bl - By
NELLIE H. BLACK
January 38, 1877 - February 6, 1974
Mrs. Verne (Nellie) Black died Wednesday at the Valley
View Estates nursing home in Hamilton. Funeral rites are planned Saturday
at 2 pm at the Dowling Chapel here, with Rev. Eugene Bartels officiating.
Burial will be in Corvallis Cemetery.
She was born Nellie Hawthorne on January 30, 1877, at
Vinton, Iowa.
She married James LaVerne Black at Kearney, Nebraska on
June 27, 1909, and shortly afterward, moved to the Bitter Root. Her husband
farmed in the area for many years until his death in 1957.
Survivors are her son, James; are a sister, Mrs. Lillian
Stoufer of Bedford, Massachusetts; three grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republic, February 17, 1974
A telegram was received in this city
yesterday announcing the death at his Victor home of A. Sterns blake, to
whom belongs the distinction of being one of the first discoverers of gold
in Montana. Death was sudden and unexpected. Mr. Blake was one of the few
remaining pioneers who blazed the trailed into the gold fields of California
and Montana. He has many sincere friends wherever he was known and his passing
causes general sorrow throughout Montana.
Abraham Sterne Blake was born at New Haven, Conn. (this
is an error. He was born in New Haven, Addison County, Vermont)November
29, 1837. His forefathers had settled at Plymouth Rock. At the age of 18
years, Mr. Blake went to California, where he remained but a short time.
Joining his brother, Major L.L. Blake, he came to Montana, via portland,
oregon, and the Mullan road from Walla Walla, arriving at Fort Owen, near
Stevensville, in November, 1861. He located at Sweet Home (Sweathouse)Creek,
near Victor, in 1864.
Mr. Blake and P.W. McAdow set the first gold sluices on
God Creek in 1862, establishing there the first gold camp in this state.
He was also one of the original locators of the famous Curlew quartz mine
near Victor, which was a dividend payer for several years. The deceased was
a member from Missoula county of the first house of representatives in 1889,
and was re-elected to serve in the second house in 1891.
Mr. Blake was a member of the famous expedition to the
Yellowstone River country in April 1863, which expedition was made for the
purpose of discovering gold mines and securing town sites. James Stuart was
the captain of the company, and their members were Cyrus D. Watkins, John
Vanderbile, James N. York, Richard McCafferty, James Hauxhurst, Drewyer Underwood,
Samuel T. Hauser, Henry A. Bell, William Roach, A. Sterne Blake, George blake,
George H. Smith, Henry T. Geery, and Ephraim Bostwick. But few of these men
are now alive.
The deceased is survived by three daughters and two sons,
a sister residing in New York, and another sister at Portland, Maine.
Daily Missoulian, February 28, 1907
Contributed by Pat Close
EDWARD S. BLAKE
August 23, 1886 - April 2, 1972
Victor - Edward S. Blake, 85, lifelong resident of Victor and an early day
baseball star in the Bitter Root Valley, died Sunday following an automobile
accident.
Mr. Blake was born August 23, 1886 in Victor and lived here all of his life.
He was employed as a woodsworker for many years. Mr. Blake served in World
War I and was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
He is survived by a sister, Bertha Rowan of Victor. Funeral
services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Dowling Chapel. Burial
will be in the Victor Cemetery.
Contributed by Pat Close
JOHN ABRAHAM BLAKE
October 31, 1878 - March 28, 1961
Hamilton, Montana - March 28, 1961
John Abraham Blake, 82, died today at the home of a sister,
Mrs. Bertha Rowan, Victor. Funeral services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at
the Dowling Chapel, with burial in Victor Cemetery.
Mr. Blake is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Rowan and Mrs.
Anna Read, and a brother, Ed Blake, all of Victor. Mr. Blake's father, Abraham
Stearns Blake, came to the Victor area in 1871. He served in the territorial
legislature in 1889 and had a part in laying out the Victor townsite in 1881.
Contributed by Pat Close
EDITH CURRY BLAKESLEE
February 13, 1906 - August 12, 2000
BILLINGS - Edith Blakeslee, 94, died of natural causes Saturday, Aug. 12,
2000, at Rim Shadows Personal Care Home in Billings. She was born Feb. 13,
1906, in St. Joseph, Mo., to Clyde E. and Elizabeth Paschal Curry.
In 1938 Edith married George Blakeslee. They made their
home in Corvallis, where George was superintendent of schools and she his
faithful helper. In 1945 they moved to Missoula, where she was active various
community activities and organizations.
Survivors include her daughter Barbara Muir (Bob) of Billings;
grandchildren Mark Reed (Linda) of Dallas, Barbara Tindall (Bob) of Kenmore,
Wash., Leslie Muir (Art Crawford) of Boise, Idaho, Scott Muir (Jill) of Boise,
and Marcia Muir of Princeton, N.J.; and six great-grandchildren. She was
preceded in death by her husband, daughter Lee Reed, her parents and two
brothers.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be
10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at First Presbyterian Church in Missoula.
Abstract from The Missoulian, Tuesday, August 15, 2000
GEORGE BLAKESLEE
October 27, 1903 - January 27, 1992
Missoula - George Blakeslee, 88, a longtime Missoula resident, died of natural
causes Monday January 27 at the Village Health Care Center. He was born October
27, 1903 in Marshall, Minnesota, to Burton and Carolyn Blakeslee. He graduated
from high school in Brookings, SD, attended the Intermountain College in
Helena and later received a master's degree in education from the University
of Montana.
In 1935, he was preceded in death by his wife of one year,
Marjorie Beebe Blakeslee. He married Edith Curry in 1938. They recently moved
to the Village Senior Residence.
A brother, a sister and a daughter, Lee Reed, preceded
him in death. Survivors include his wife, Edith, Missoula; a daughter and
son-in-law, Barbara and Bob Muir, Billings; a sister, Helen faust, Pueblo,
Colorado; two grandsons, Mark Reed, San Antonio, Texas, and Scott Muir, Boise,
Idaho; three granddaughters, Bobbi Tindall, Bothell, Washington; Leslie Muir,
Boise, and Marcia Muir, Portland, Oregon; and four great grandchildren.
Cremation was under the direction of Squire Simmons &
Carr Funeral Home. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the First
Presbyterian Church.
The Missoulian, January 28, 1992, page B3
MARJORIE BEEBE BLAKESLEE
Young Mother Dies
Mrs. G.L. Blakeslee, Former Hamilton Woman, Laid to Rest in Missoula Cemetery
Mrs. Marjorie Blakeslee, wife of George L. Blakeslee,
principal of the Corvallis schools, died Saturday afternoon at a Missoula
hospital following a six weeks illness. She was well known here, where her
husband served five years as coach and instructor at the high school. She
came to Hamilton as a bride and early became identified with Church and club
work and was a favorite in musical circles, often lending her voice to public
programs and choir work. She was 29 years of age and a native of Missoula.
In addition to her parents and the husband, Mrs. Blakeslee is survived by
her daughter, Barbara Jean, two sisters, Mrs. T.F. Mitchell of Helena and
Miss Merle Beebe of Marysville, Tennessee, and a brother, Edward Beebe, of
Missoula.
Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at the
Marsh & Powell chapel in Missoula, Rev. M.E. Van de Mark of the Methodist
church officiating. Burial was in the Missoula cemetery.
The Corvallis schools were closed yesterday in tribute
to Mrs. Blakeslee's memory and members of the teach staff and several high
school students journeyed to Missoula to attend the funeral. Mrs. Blakeslee
had endeared herself to the entire community during her brief residence there
because of her willingness to help in all worthwhile community affairs.
Ravalli Republican, January 24, 1935, page 1
NICHOLAS C. BLINDAUER
September 21, 1878 - May 8, 1909
Nick Blindauer of Hamilton, died Saturday morning at the
Sisters' hospital at Missoula, from heart failure, after a short illness.
Mr. Blindauer was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, 29 years ago and came to
Montana when only twelve years of age, and leaves a wife, two brothers, Val
and Peter, and two nephews, Nick Blindauer and Frank Green, all of Hamilton
to mourn his untimely taking away.
He was buried in St. Mary's cemetery, Stevensville, Monday
afternoon, Rev. Father Carr performing the funeral services. He was placed
beside the remains of his brother, Matt, who died three years ago, and Matt's
wife, who died 17 years ago. The sorrowing relatives have the heartfelt sympathy
of many friends.
Northwest Tribune, May 14, 1909
GEORGE L. BLODGETT
January 29, 1861 - January 2, 1935
BLODGETT RITES HELD. MONTANA OLD-TIMER BURIED IN FAMILY CEMETERY NEAR
WOODSIDE LAST FRIDAY AFTERNOON.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. R.H. Barrett Friday
afternoon in memory of George Blodgett, who died January 21 in Seattle. The
rites were held at the Dowling chapel and nephews of Mr. Blodgett served
as pallbearers. They were Edward and Glen Shults, Hugh and Herbert McKillop,
Theodore and Bernard Blodgett. Burial was in the Blodgett family cemetery.
Ravalli Republican, January 24, 1935
LYMAN JOHNSON BLODGETT
September 19, 1833 - May 12, 1908
AN AGED RESIDENT DEAD.
Lyman Blodgett, one of the best known residents of the
Bitter Root valley, died Tuesday morning at 1 o'clock at the home of his
daughter, Mrs. Victor Shultz, on the west side of the Bitter Root river at
the advanced age of 74 years, 6 months, and 27 days. He had been in poor
health since Thanksgiving, when he was stricken with paralysis, from which
he never fully recovered. He received the third stroke a few days ago, which
resulted in his death.
Mr. Blodgett was born in Bath, New Hampshire in 1833,
and came to the Bitter Root valley in 1868. He first located at Corvallis,
where he lived many years. Before coming here, he had joined the rush to
California and for a time lived in Utah. The deceased is survived by three
daughters and three sons. they are: Mrs. Charles MacRae, Mrs. Victor Shultz,
and Mrs. A McKillop, Joseph, George and Newman Blodgett.
The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock
at the Shultz home under the auspices of the Masonic lodge of Corvallis,
of which the deceased was a charter member, the sermon being delivered by
Rev. William Cobleigh of Corvallis. The body was interred in the Blodgett
family cemetery northwest of Hamilton. Many friends and acquaintances of
the family attended the obsequies, and it was one of the largest funerals
seen in the county.
Ravalli Republican
May 15, 1908
MARGARET ADAIR BLODGETT
March 1872 - March 25, 1943
Pioneer Matron Dies in Missoula
Mrs. Margaret Blodgett died Thursday night at the home
of her daughter, Mrs. William Sheridan, Missoula. Margaret was born in Marshfield,
Missouri in March 1872, Mr. and Mrs. Till Adair, and moved with her
parents to the valley in 1886. Funeral services were held in the Masonic
Temple and burial in the Blodgett Cemetery. Blodgett Canyon was named after
the father of her husband, Newman Blodgett, who died in 1928.
Survivors in addition to the daughter in Missoula include
two daughters, Mrs. Blanche Sheridan, Hamilton; Mrs. Ila Lovell, Missoula;
sons, Lawrence McNeal, Hamilton; Clyde McNeal, Butte; Harley Blodgett, Hamilton;
Bernard Blodgett, Great Falls; Ted, Allan and Lyman Blodgett, who are in
defense work in California; Arthur Blodgett, San Francisco, California, and
Max Blodgett, who is in the army; half sisters, Mrs. Walter St. Clair and
Mrs. Edna Clark, Hamilton, who are visiting on the coast; brothers, Tom Adair,
in eastern Montana, and Arthur Adair in Oregon.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republican, April 1, 1943
MARY ANN PARKER BLODGETT
February 8, 1841 - December 24, 1903
Mrs. Lyman Blodgett died at her home on Blodgett Creek
last Thursday evening after a lingering illness of cancer. The funeral was
held from the home last Saturday and was largely attended. Mrs. Blodgett
was among the first settlers in the Bitter Root valley and was highly esteemed
by all. She is survived by her husband, three daughters, and four sons: Mesdames
MacRae, McKillop, and Shultz, and George, Horace W., Neuman G., and Joseph.
The bereaved ones have the sympathy of the entire community.
The Western News, December 30, 1903
ANNA ADELAIDE BOWDEN
August 1867 - May 4, 1941
HOLD LAST RITES FOR MRS. BOWDEN
Anna Bowden died Sunday, May 4, at her Corvallis home.
Funeral services were held at the Dowling Chapel and burial was in Missoula.Pallbearers
were Ben L. Rowe, Thomas B. Fleming, Otto Quast, Del Brisbin, H.O. Boyer,
and R.D. Giese.
Mrs. Bowden, a native of Wincanton, England, was married
in Missoula in 1891 to Mr. Bowden and the newlyweds went to Corvallis where
Mr. Bowden managed a store for the Missoula Mercantile Company.
Survivors include her widower and son, Dudley, Corvallis,
and a sister, Mrs. F.E. Acutt, Melbourne, Australia.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republican, May 8, 1941
HENRY ALPHEUS BRIGGS
December 16, 1864 - January 29, 1952
Henry Briggs passed away at a hospital at Deer Lodge,
January 29. Funeral services will be held at the Victor Community church
at two o'clock Friday Rev. A.J. House of Connor will officiate at the
services, after which burial will be made in Victor cemetery where the wife
of Mr. Briggs is at rest. Pallbearers will be Joe Hackett, Ralph Powell,
Lawrence Watters, Everett Babbitt, W.E. Brown, and Arthur McCulloch.
Henry A. Briggs was born December 16, 1864 at Columbus,
Nebraska and came to the Bitter Root from Phillipsburg in 1897. He had been
married in the Granite county mining camp, December 28, 1895 to Etta May
Dresser. Mrs. Briggs passed away August 8, 1932.
Those who survive Mr. Briggs are five children, 11 grandchildren,
and 7 great grandchildren. The children are: Jay A. Briggs, Victor; Elma
A. Briggs, Butte; Mrs. Ray (Una) Lord, Conner; Mrs. F.M. Durfee, Drummond;
Ian of Boulder City, Nevada. Mrs. Frank Compton of Portland, Oregon is a
surviving sister.
Abstract from: The Western News, January 31, 1952
WINIFRED (Winnie) FROGGE BRISBIN
January 24, 1902 - April 4, 1976
Mrs. Brisbin funeral set on Thursday
Funeral services for Mrs. Del (Winifred) Brisbin will be
held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Dowling Chapel, with burial to follow in Corvallis
Cemetery. Mrs. Brisbin died at her home east of Woodside Sunday evening.
She was born January 24, 1902 in Hamilton, daughter of
early day residents, Mr. and Mrs. Drewry Frogge. She attended schools at Corvallis
and received a teaching degree from Western Montana College at Dillon. Later,
teaching at Florence, Grantsdale, and Corvallis. She married Lewis Adelbert
Brisbin on January 15, 1928 in Townsend. They lived in Hamilton for several
years, then the couple moved to Toppenish, Washington, where she served as
music supervisor in Toppenish schools for some 15 years prior to her husband's
death on September 27, 1960. She lived in Spokane, then returned to the Bitter
Root in early 1975
Survivors include two nephews, Orion Cobb of Inglewood,
California, and LaVerne Cobb of Ojai, California, and two nieces, Arlene Modeen
in California and Beryl Price of Spokane, along with several cousins.
Abstract from the Ravalli Republic, April 6, 1976
Mrs. Del Brisbin Taken By Death; Was Former Corvallis Teacher
A loved teacher of years ago at Corvallis, "Winnie" Brisbin,
died peacefully at her home east of Woodside bridge early Sunday evening.
She had not been ill and death was a shock to family and friends. Funeral
services will be held on Thursday at two o'clock. at the Dowling Chapel. Interment
will be in the Corvallis cemetery. Pallbearers will be Lee Lear, Donald Holloron,
James Pile, William Engler, Robert Glenn, and Tom Dunbar, Jr. Rev. Monroe
Wilcox will officiate and the ritual of the OES will be given by members
of the Corvallis Chapter No. 59.
WinifredFrogge was born January 24, 1902 near Corvallis,
daughter of Drewry and Amy Myers Frogge. The parents came to the Willow Creek
district east of Corvallis in 1890. Mr. Frogge was an early day teacher in
the valley,. Winnie attended school at Corvallis, being graduated in 1921,
and normal college at Dillon. taught school Florence-Carlton, then at Grantsdale,
and then Corvallis. On January 15, 1928, she married Lewis Adelbert Brisbin
in Townsend. They made their home in Corvallis for many years while he had
the Chevrolet agency. Later, they moved to Toppenish, Washington. Del died
there September 27, 1960. After returning to the Bitter Root valley in 1975,
he made her home with her second cousin, Loyce Teller and husband, Leighton,
until moving into her new home a month ago.
Mrs. Brisbin's father died in 1926 and her mother April
20, 1950. A sister, Mrs. Dean (Froncie) Cobb, died July 24, 1966. Mrs. Brisbin
was a longtime member of the Corvallis Order of the Eastern Star and was matron
in 1946. She also was pianist for the chapter for three years.
She is survived by nephews, Orion Cobb, Inglewood, California;
LaVerne Cob, Ojai, California; nieces, Arlene Modeen, California, and Beryl
Price, Spokane; sister-in-law, Beulh Brisbin, Helena, and by many friends
who will remember her with fondness.
Abstract from The Western News, April 7, 1976
CECIL I. BROOKS
February 28, 1897 - April 19, 1936
Cecil I. Brooks, Former Resident of the Valley, Is Taken By Death
Cecil Brooks died in a Seattle hospital April 19 and funeral
services will be held at the Dowling Chapel in Hamilton at two o'clock Friday
afternoon. Rev. James Hastings will officiate at the rites after which interment
will be made in the family plot in Riverview Cemetery beside the grave of
his wife, the former Elsie Kress Brooks, who died here February 3, 1936.
Pallbearers will be John Downing, Clark Gray, Frank Seis, John Freeze, Bill
McFee, and Ralph Hobbs.
Cecil Irvin Brooks was born February 28,1897 in Kansas.
He came to the Bitter Root in 1900 with his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs.
John Brooks.
He married Elsie Kress in Hamilton by Rev. Wm. L. Deming May 14, 1917. They
became parents of 5 children all of whom survive their parents. The surviving
children are Robert Brooks and Mrs. Marie Martin, Seattle; John and Mrs.
Shirley Gierlick, Portland; and Glenn who is in the Navy. All the children
will be here for the last rites. Other survivors include a brother, L.D.
Brooks of Portland, who will come to Hamilton for the funeral services. He
will be accompanied by his wife and their daughter, Mrs. Carol Porter, Spokane.
Frank Burks of Hamilton is a cousin. There are surviving three grandchildren:
Bobbie and Jerry Martin and Diane Gierlick.
Abstract from: The Western News, April 22, 1954, page 1
ELSIE KRESS BROOKS
BROOKS RITES TODAY
Funeral Services will Take Place at Christian Church and Burial Will
Be in Riverview.
Mrs. Cecil Brooks passed away Monday morning at the Daly
Hospital where she had been receiving treatment for Pneumonia for several
days, and funeral services are to be held this afternoon at the Christian
Church at 2 o'clock. Rev. Frank Van Doren will be in charge and interment
will be in Riverview Cemetery. Fred Carpenter, Clark Gray, John Freeze, Arthur
Thomas, Roy Mayberry, and Malcolm Sizer will be the pallbearers.
Mrs. Brooks was a native of the Hamilton community and
a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Kress, long time orchardists of the west side
section. Besides her parents and her husband, she is survived by five children:
Glenn, John, Robert, Shirley, and Elsie. In addition, there is a sister,
Mrs. Jessie Applebury of Hamilton, and two brothers, Herbert Kress of Hamilton
and Ben Kress Jr who lives in Los Angeles, California. Mrs. Brooks was 37
years of age. She had been in poor health for an extended period.
Ravalli Republican, Thursday, February 6, 1936, page 8
FRANK BROOKS
April 15, 1868 - February 12, 1952
FRANK BROOKS TAKEN BY DEATH TUESDAY, RITES WERE HELD TODAY.
Frank Brooks passed away at Daly hospital on Tuesday,
February 12. Funeral services were conducted this afternoon at the Dowling
chapel in Hamilton interment was made in Riverview cemetery. Those who served
as pallbearers were: Grant Bergren, Louis Buck, Alvin Butler, Joseph Haigh,
Lee Brown, and Ralph Wanderer.
Frank Brooks was a native of Ontario, Canada where he
was born April 15, 1868. He came to the United States with his parents when
he was but three months of age. They settled at Brush Creek, Iowa. At the
age of 23 years, he was married to Lillian Boots. To this union were born
six children, two of whom survive. His wife passed away in 1927 in Kansas
City and Mr. Brooks returned to Montana to again engage in farming. He marriedMary
Arkle at Sidney, Montana about 20 years ago.
Those who survive Mr. Brooks are his widow, Mary; two
daughters, Mrs. Henry Oppegaard of Hamilton's west side district, and Ethel
Brooks, Oelwein, Iowa; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Also surviving is a sister, Mary Weston of Strawberry Point, Iowa; a step-daughter,
Mrs. Hazel Metzel, Paulsbo, Washington and her daughter, Mrs. Elton Thorn,
Salem, Oregon.
Abstract from: The Western News, February 14, 1952
JOHN BROOKS
August 14, 1873 - September 29, 1950
JOHN BROOKS TAKEN BY DEATH. LIVED IN VALLEY HALF A CENTURY
John Brooks died Friday, September 29 at Daly hospital
in Hamilton and funeral services were held at the Dowling Chapel in Hamilton
Monday afternoon. Rev. Roger Robison officiated at the services following
which burial was made in Riverview Cemetery. The pallbearers were John Downing,
Anfin Anfinson, Wilbur See, Clark Gray, John Freeze, and Russell Iman. Mr.
Brooks was laid to rest beside the grave of this first wife, the late Nan
Brooks, who passed away October 31, 1930.
Mr. Brooks was born August 14, 1873 at Milton, Iowa and
came to the valley while a young man and raised his family here. Those who
survive Mr. Brooks are his widow, Ada, and two sons, L.D. Brooks and Cecil
Brooks, both of Portland, Oregon, a brother, five grandchildren and two great
grandchildren.
Abstract from: The Western News, October 5, 1950, page 1
NANCY BARNETT BROOKS
1877 - October 31, 1930
MRS. JOHN BROOKS CALLED TO REST
Mrs. John Brooks died Friday night, following a protracted
illness. The funeral was held Monday afternoon from the Dowling Chapel. Interment
was made in Riverview Cemetery. Rev. H.H. Longnecker conducted the services.
The deceased was 52 years of age and a native of Kansas.
She came to Hamilton about 30 years ago. In her immediate family she is survived
by the husband and two sons, Cecil, who resides here, and L.D. Brooks of
Portland, Oregon. Also by her father, J.F. Barnett of Hamilton, brothers
J.G. Barnett, Park Rapids, Washington, and L.F. Barnett of Burlington, Washington,
and sister, Mrs. O.A. Blackburn of Tacoma.
The Western News, November 6, 1930, page 1
INEZ E. BROOKS
January 3, 1903 - January 31, 1950
FINAL TRIBUTE TO INEZ E. BROOKS AT FUNERAL RITES THIS AFTERNOON
Miss Inez Brooks died January 31 at her home in Corvallis.
Funeral services conducted this afternoon at 2 o'clock in the Dowling chapel
by the Rev. Jesse Dove. Burial was in the family plot in the Corvallis cemetery
and pallbearers were Dudley Bowden, Earl Hall, Mason Simmons, William Rasmussen,
Robert Bay, and Joseph Ploharz.
Miss Brooks was born January 3, 1903, on a ranch three
miles north of Corvallis. During her high school years, she showed outstanding
ability and was graduated from Corvallis High School in 1921 as the valedictorian
of her class.
Survivors include her mother, Mrs. Lulu Brooks; three
sisters and brothers-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. R.D. Giesy, Mr. and Mrs. Hector
Rasmussen, and Mr. and Mrs. Carl Swanson, all of Corvallis; and two nephews
and a niece-in-law, Jimmie Swanson of Corvallis, and Mr. and Mrs. Russell
Giesy of Hysham. Her father, Louis N. Brooks, preceded her in death three
years ago. Mr. Giesy arrived from Hysham by plane yesterday to join other
family members for the rites.
Abstract from: The Western News, February 2, 1950
LULA BELLE WOOD BROOKS
March 26, 1882 - February 2, 1958
BELOVED CORVALLIS MATRON TAKEN BY DEATH, HER MEALS WON NATIONAL FAME.
Lula Belle Brooks died at her Corvallis home, February
2. She had operated the Brooks hotel with her daughters until her death.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Gerald Meyer at Dowling Chapel in
Hamilton Wednesday afternoon. Interment was made in Corvallis cemetery. Those
who served as pallbearers were Dudley Bowden, Alfred Simmons, Roy Thomas,
Ed Bay, Dr. J.W. Kilpatrick, and Gilbert Chaffin.
Born at Corvallis March 26, 1882, a daughter of pioneer
parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. John F. Wood who had come from Missouri to
the Bitter Root in 1876, Lula Belle Wood grew up in Corvallis and was wed
at Victor October 15, 1898 to Lewis Newton Brooks. The couple made their
home on a farm north of Corvallis until 1914 when they moved to Corvallis
where they acquired the former T.J. Hefling residence which became nationally
known as the Brooks Hotel.
Those who survive Mrs. Brooks are her daughters: Mrs.
R.D. Giesy, Mrs. Hector Rasmussen, Mrs. Carl Swanson, all of Corvallis; a
sister, Mrs. Andrew Sherry of Helena; a brother, A.R. Wood, Corvallis. There
are also three grandsons, Russell D. Giesy, Whitefish and Jimmy and Charles
Swanson, Corvallis. Great grandsons are Russell Dean and Roger Giesy, Whitefish.
In addition, there are many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews,
and world of friends.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republic, February 3, 1958
ALBERT BROWN
December 22, 1920 - October 28, 1947
Albert Brown Dies in Highway Wreck. Funeral Will Be
Held Here Friday
Albert Brown died Tuesday, October 28, from injuries sustaned
in a highway wreck of the school bus on which he was riding. He was the assistant
coach of the Washougal Junior High School football team in Oregon. Funeral
services will be held at two o'clock Friday afternoon at the Dowling Chapel
in Hamilton. Rev. Edward Ferguson will officiate at the rites and interment
will be made in Corvallis Cemetery. Friends who will serve as pallbearers
will be Everett Felix, Stanley Eggers, Robert Bay, Vance Bay, Dick Bryson,
and Gene Sperry.
Albert Brown was born December 22, 1920 at Chasely, North
Dakota and came to the Bitter Root with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Brown,
and other members of the family in 1933. He graduated from Corvallis High
School in 1940 and Whitworth College in 1945.
Survivors include the parents and the following sisters
and brothers: Reuben, William, George, Mrs. Esther Hogue and Misses Barbara
and Laura Brown, all of Corvallis.
Abstract from: The Western News, October 30, 1947, page 1
ANNE REBECCA
EVERLY BROWN
1841 - June 3, 1923
Pioneer Valley Lady Died Last Sunday
Mrs. Anne Rebecca Brown, pioneer and long resident of
the Bitter Root valley, died Sunday evening, June 3, following an illness
of more than three years duration.
Mrs. Brown was born in Wheeling, Virginia in 1841 but
moved to Iowa as a child. She was married to Samuel Brown in 1857 at Belleview,
Iowa. To this union were born four children: William Allen Brown of Alberta,
Canada, Mrs. Z.C. Pringey of Grantsdale, Mrs. Granville Stuart of Butte and
Lewis Calvin Brown, all of whom except the latter are now living. She also
leaves six grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Mrs. Brown came to Montana in 1879 and in 1886, moved
to the Bitter Root where she resided until the time of her death. In 1914,
on May 18, her husband, Samuel Brown, died following a short illness. For
the past three years, Mrs. Brown was an invalid and although confined, bore
the burden patiently until death released her. She will be mourned by the
many from the Grantsdale church. Interment being made in the Riverview cemetery,
Rev. Ramsey officiating. The church was beautifully decorated with lilacs,
bleeding hearts, and iris. A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. E. Bryson,
Mr. J. Bryson, and Miss Willa Hull with Mrs. Custer See for accompanist,
rendered beautiful music at the church. The pallbearers were H.H. Spaulding,
Henry Gilmore, Robert Smith, Lewis Kincaid, John A. Taylor, and J.O. Allen.
Ravalli Republican, June 7, 1923
JAMES WILLIAM BROWN
April 25, 1894 - September 4, 1972
J.W. Brown, 78, Claimed by Death from Heart Attack
There will be graveside services at Lone Pine Cemetery
in Darby Thursday at 11 a.m. to honor J.W. Brown of that city who died Monday
at his home. He had gone out to his pasture to turn in a head of water and
suffered a heart attack and expired. Bishop Donald Blodgett will officiate
at the services. Dowling Funeral Home has charge of the rites.
James William Brown was born April 25, 1894 at Comstock,
Nebraska, a son of William and Belle Petet Brown. He served in the army in
WWI. Mr. Brown married Geneva Henderson of Darby 1922. Mr. Brown was a member
of Medicine Tree Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Surviving beside the widow are sons Lyle and Don of Darby;
daughter, Mrs. James (Arvilla) Ruark, Hamilton; 12 grandchildren and seven
great grandchildren; sisters and brothers.
Abstract from The Western News, Wednesday, September 6, 1972, page 1
LUELLA J. BROWN
March 15, 1863 - January 2, 1928
MRS. J.C. BROWN DEAD. PASSED AWAY MONDAY AND FUNERAL WAS HELD AT BAPTIST
CHURCH YESTERDAY AFTERNOON.
Mrs. J.C. Brown, for many years a resident of the Bitter
Root valley, died Monday evening at 7 o'clock of heart trouble, with which
she had been suffering about six weeks. She had been a resident of the Bitter
Root valley 40 years. She was aged 66 years, nine months, and 26 days, and
was born in Georgia. When she first came to Montana, she and her husband
located at Stevensville.
She was the mother of three children. They are Robert
L. Brown and Mrs. Ethel Mendenhall of Hamilton, and Mrs. C.E. Hood of Santa
Rose, California, who came here last month on account of the illness of her
mother.
The funeral was held at the Baptist church yesterday afternoon
at 2 o'clock by Rev. H.H. Longenecker and interment was in Riverview Cemetery.
Ravalli Republican, January 5, 1928
MARY ALICE
BROWN
- June 23, 1900
Mrs. Mary Brown, wife of W.A. Brown, died last Monday
at the home of Samuel Brown, at Grantsdale, the funeral being held Tuesday
from the Presbyterian church there. The remains of this estimable woman were
laid to rest in Riverview cemetery, and the large number who followed them
to the grave gave token of the respect in which the deceased had been held.
Mrs. Brown leaves a husband and five children, the youngest being about seven
years old, to morn her demise.
Ravalli Republican, June 27, 1900
SAMUEL BROWN
December 28, 1836 - May 18, 1914
Samuel Brown Dead; Pioneer Resident of the Valley Died Monday Morning and
Was Buried Tuesday
Samuel Brown died Monday morning at his home near Grantsdale.
The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Presbyterian
church at Grantsdale. Rev. J.C. Irvin of this city conducting the services.
The remains were buried in Riverview cemetery. The pallbearers were R.W.
Nicol, C.W. Harvey, A. Vance, C.B. Hart, and Samuel Hall. The funeral was
largely attended by friends of the deceased.
Samuel Brown was born in Pennsylvania December 28, 1836.
He was married to Ann Everly about 55 years ago, coming to Montana in 1879
and located at Phillipsburg. In 1886, he came to the Bitter Root valley, locating
at Grantsdale. Mr. Brown followed farming and fruit raising near that town
until his death.
The deceased is survived by his wife, one son, W.A. Brown
of Alberta, and two daughters, Mrs. Graville Stuart of Butte and Mrs. Ida
Pringey of this city. He also leaves five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
He was a man of exemplary habits and sterling character, one respected and
loved by all who knew him.
Ravalli Republican, Friday, May 22, 1914
AMOS BUCK
1844 - 1930
MONTANA PIONEER, AMOS BUCK PASSED AWAY AT STEVENSVILLE HOME
Stevensville, September 10, 1930 - Amos Buck, pioneer, one of the last survivors
of the big Hold battle with the Nez Perce Indians, early day merchant and
early day horticulturist, died at his home here Saturday night at the age
of 86 years, following an extended illness. While he had been in ill health
for years, he was able to be up and around, but for the last three weeks
his condition became worse and he has been up and down from his bed.
Mr. Buck, a native of Ohio, was born in that state in
1844. He arrived at the Virginia City gold camp in 1864, where he following
mining. In the seventies, Mr. Buck located in the Bitter Root valley, where,
with his brothers, he engaged in the mercantile business, in which he was
actively engaged until about 20 years ago when he retired. Mr. Buck devoted
much attention to mining and horticulture and planted the first McIntosh
apple trees in Montana at Stevensville.
He was an ardent friend of Father Ravalli, early day priest
in Montana, and was one of those instrumental in having Ravalli county named
after the priest. He was always active in community affairs and politics.
At one time, he represented Ravalli county in the state legislature. Mr.
Buck served on the town council, school board, and was for many years, a
trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church.
He was one of the organizers of two of the water canal
systems for irrigation in the Bitter Root valley and was considered a pioneer
in irrigation. He was prominent in Masonic and Odd Fellow circles and, at
various times, was the presiding officer of both of the local lodges.
Mr. Buck is survived by his wife and a son, Charles A.
Buck, Stevensville merchant. Fred Buck, his last surviving brother, died
here more than a year ago. Funeral services were held at the Federated Methodist
Church Monday afternoon by Rev. H.B. Ricketts and the last rites at the grave
were conducted by the Masonic and Odd Fellow lodges.
Ravalli Republican, September 11, 1930
BLANCHE MAY LORD BUCK
May 10, 1889 - January 19, 1974
Mrs. Louis Buck, 84, longtime valley resident, who died January
19 at Daly Hospital and funeral services were held yesterday at Dowling chapel.
Rev. Allen Adams of Choteau officiated and interment was at Riverview Cemetery.
Pallbearers were John Bruce, Frank Gonsion, James Langley, Grundy Nichols,
Howard Robinson, and Mac Tilton. Honorary pallbearers were Everett Babbit,
Bern Beavers, and Donald Snow.
Blanche May Lord was born March 10, 1889 at Livingston
Manor, N.Y. and moved with her family to Medicine Hot Springs, south of Darby,
in 1892. Her parents were George and Sally Ann Smith Lord. Mr. Lord built
the original hotel at the Springs and helped contribute much to the early
history of the valley. Most of Mrs. Buck's family, including pioneer uncle,
Bertie Lord, preceded her in death.
Miss Lord married Harvey L. Cummings, April 29, 1906 in
Hamilton with Justice of the Peace, E.C. Wahley, officiating. On January
5, 1927, she married Louis Clinton Buck.
Mr. Buck died here March 26, 1972 and her daughter, Mrs.
Herbert (Dorothy) Marshall came from California to live with her mother so
she could remain in the home she had lived in for 17 years.
Survivors are the daughter, Mrs. Marshall; sons, Harvey
Cummings, Stockton, California; Fay Buck, Choteau; 21 grandchildren which
includes grandson, Dr. Fred Stout, Missoula; 30 great grandchildren; cousins,
Ray Gilbert and Oliver Lord and Jane Smith. Harvey Cummings came to be with
his family last weekend and other family members here are Fay Buck and Dr.
Fred, and members of other families.
Abstract from: The Western News, January 23, 1974
MAUDE MARY NICHOLS BUCKRIDGE
March 9, 1901 - October 16, 1988
Maud Mary Buckridge, 87, longtime Corvallis resident,
died of natural causes, Sunday October 16 in Missoula. She was born March
9, 1901, in Butte to Eliza and Henry Nichols. The family moved to Corvallis
where she graduated from Corvallis High School.
On May 19, 1920 she married David Winston Buckridge in
Deer Lodge. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a
brother, Henry Nichols. Survivors include two nephews, Don Hamilton of Bigfork
and Terry Buckridge of Marysville, Washington; a niece, June Fullerton of
Missoula.
Eastern Star funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday,
October 19, at the Dowling Chapel with Lodge No. 59 officiating. Burial will
be in the Corvallis Cemetery.
Abstract from Ravalli Republic, October 18, 1988
AGNES HESSLING BURGESS
YOUNG MOTHER DEAD.
Funeral Services for Mrs. Harvey Burgess to Be Held this Afternoon at Dowling
Chapel.
Mrs. Agnes Hessling Burgess died at 2:30 o'clock Tuesday
morning at the Daly Hospital, where she was taken the previous day suffering
from an attack of pneumonia. Mrs. Burgess was a native of Hamilton and was
31 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Harvey Burgess; three children,
William, Earl, and Helen; her father, William Hessling; two sisters, Mrs.
Rose M. Murray of Stevensville and Mrs. Louis Wheatley of Missoula; two brothers,
William and George, who reside in California.
Funeral services will be held this afternoon at the Dowling
funeral home by Rev. C.E. Miller of the Presbyterian church. Burial will
be in Riverview Cemetery. The death of Mrs. Burgess came as a shock to many
friends who had known here since babyhood. She was known as a quiet home
loving woman.
Ravalli Republican, May 11, 1933
HENRY FRANK BURKS
March 5, 1897 - September 19, 1970
H. FRANK BURKS, LONGTIME VALLEY MAN, TAKEN BY DEATH
SEPTEMBER 19.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday at the Dowling Chapel
for Frank Burks, 73, who died at his home in Stevensville September 19. Rev.
Kenneth Loge officiated and interment was in the family plot in Corvallis
Cemetery. Pallbearers were Luther Hill, W.W. Brown, Virgil Honeycutt, Delbert
Bragg, Martin Jones, and Harry Witheral.
Henry Frank Burks was born March 5, 1897 at Yates Center,
Kansas and the family moved to the valley in 1900. He married Loyie E. Jones
September 17, 1918 with Rev. J.C. Irwin officiating.
Surviving beside the widow and son are grandchildren,
Leonard and Charles Burks, all of Stevensville.
Abstract from: The Western News, September 23, 1970, page 1
JOEL HENLEY BURKS
September 6, 1866 - May 28, 1933
J.H. BURKS DEAD
Was Resident of Corvallis Nearly Thirty Years
Three Daughters and Son Survive Father, Who Reared Family After Mother's
Death
Corvallis, May 31 - J.H. Burks, 67, a respected citizen of Corvallis for
nearly 30 years, died early Sunday morning at the Daly Hospital in Hamilton.
Funeral services were held at the Methodist Church this afternoon.
Joel Henley Burks was born in Indiana September 6, 1866.
He was married in Kansas 31 years ago and the family came to the Bitter Root
valley, locating at Florence, then moved to Corvallis and the same year Mrs.
Burks died, leaving four small children. Mr. Burks managed to keep the children
with him until they were grown. All of them, with four grandchildren survive.
The children are Frank of Corvallis, Mrs. W.C. Phelps of Stevensville, Mrs.
Henry McCann of Missoula, and Mrs. Elsie Landon, who made her home with her
father.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republican, Thursday, June 1, 1933
ADDIE BURRELL
March 15, 1862 - August 24, 1926
Mrs. Ada Burrell, wife of A.E. Burrell, died at her home
west of Hamilton Tuesday evening at 8 o'clock of dropsy. She had been ill
about a year and death was not unexpected. She was 64 years of age and was
born in Cedar County, Iowa, March 15, 1862. She came to the Bitter Root valley
in 1902 and had lived here ever since.
Besides her husband, she is survived by an only son, Fay
Burrell, employed in the First National Bank; a sister, Mrs. Ben Severns
and a brother in Iowa. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, which
organization had charge of the services at the grave.
The funeral was held yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock
by Dr. J.E. Parker and interment was in the cemetery near Corvallis.
Ravalli Republican, August 27, 1926
Contributed by Karolyn Simpson
ALBERT E. BURRELL
March 1, 1855 - April 29, 1941
A.E. BURRELL GORED BY BULL, DIES FROM SHOCK; HAD LIVED IN VALLEY SINCE
1902
Funeral rites were held this afternoon at two o'clock
from the chapel of the Dowling Funeral home for Albert E. Burrell, Rev. C.J.
Taber officiated. Music was offered at the service by Mrs. Zelma Taylor.
Pallbearers were Edward F. Mills, John Parker, Henry Nichols, Dan S. Willey,
N.H. Olson, and Russell Iman.
Death came to A.E. Burrell in a tragic fashion, Tuesday.
In Spite of his 86 years, he was quite active and was accustomed to take
walks about the ranch property which he acquired when he came to the Bitter
Root valley to make his home in 1902. On that ranch, where he lived during
recent years with his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. Burrell did light chores
and often crossed the fields for various reasons. Early Tuesday afternoon,
John Roberts, who was cultivating in a nearby field, noticed a commotion
in the adjoining field. Calling it to the attention of Henry Nichols and
Elmer Olson, who were pulling trees nearby, the men investigated and they
found a Holstein bull had attacked Mr. Burrell and, although it had not gored
him badly, it had shocked him severely. He was rushed to the Daly hospital
in Hamilton where he lapsed into unconsciousness and died the same afternoon.
Albert Burrell was born March 1, 1855 at Columbus, Ohio.
Since coming to the Bitter Root valley, after years spent in Wyoming, Nebraska,
and Iowa, he has continuously engaged in farming, operating a large apple
orchard, raising cattle and sheep and dairy stock. He always maintained an
active interest in public affairs and was ever willing to sacrifice his personal
time and efforts for the public good. His only surviving relative in the
Bitter Root is his son, F.O. Burrell, county treasurer for Ravalli County.
He is also survived by a sister, Miss Elsie Burrell of Kansas City, Missouri,
and three brothers, Dick and George of Oklahoma, and Sam, who was last heard
from while serving the Canadian government at Fort Simpson, Canada.
The Western News, May 1, 1941
Contributed by Karolyn Simpson
FAY O. BURRELL
June 13, 1894 - October 28, 1981
F.O. Burrell, 87, a former Ravalli County Sheriff, state
prison warden and legislator, died Wednesday morning at St. Patrick Hospital
in Missoula.
Burrell was born June 13, 1894 in Sand Hills, Nebraska,
to Albert E. and Addie Burrell. He attended Fairplay Grade School near Dutch
Hill and graduated from Corvallis High School. After attending Montana State
University briefly, Burrell joined the Navy in 1917. After the Armistice
was signed, he served on a mine sweeper before receiving an honorable discharge
in 1921.
Burrell married Helen Quast in Spokane, Washington on
February 22, 1926. He ranched west of Woodside and worked as a cashier at
the First State Bank in Hamilton for several years. He was country treasurer
for two terms before being elected county sheriff for three terms.
Midway into his third term as sheriff, Burrell was appointed
warden of the Montana State Prison at Deer Lodge. Later he was appointed
liquor inspector of Montana. He also served one term in the Montana Legislature,
after which he ranched until his retirement, then moved to Hamilton.
Burrell was a 50 year member of the Corvallis Masonic
Lodge #39 and of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is survived by his wife,
Helen, and several cousins.
Funeral services will be conducted by the Corvallis Masonic
Lodge at 10 a.m. Friday at the Dowling Funeral Home in Hamilton. The American
Legion Honor Guard will participate in graveside rites at the Corvallis cemetery.
Ravalli Republic, October 29, 1981
Contributed by Karolyn Simpson
HELEN K. QUAST BURRELL
August 2, 1897 - May 31, 1986
Helen Quast Burrell, 88, of Hamilton, died Saturday morning
from natural causes at Valley View Nursing Home in Hamilton. She was born
August 2, 1897 in Missoula, the daughter of Otto and Helen Ziesing Quast,
Sr. In 1915, the family moved to the Corvallis area where they ranched. She
graduated from Corvallis High School in 1918. She then attended the Presbyterian
Nursing School in Chicago, where she graduated and became a registered nurse.
She returned to Montana and worked at Marcus Daly Memorial
Hospital in Hamilton. On February 22, 1916, she married Fay Burrell in Spokane.
They made their home on a ranch west of Woodside. Mr. Burrell died
in 1981. Mrs. Burrell was a member of the Corvallis Chapter No. 59 Order
of Eastern Star, Owego Garden Club, and the Corvallis Garden Club.
She is survived by a brother, Otto Quast, of Corvallis;
a sister, Cora McCormick of Stevensville, and three nieces and one nephew.
Private funeral services will be held with Pastor Rex Applebury officiating.
Interment will be in Corvallis cemetery.
Visitation will be held Monday evening from 7 to 9 p.m.
at Dowling Funeral Home in Hamilton. Memorials may be made to a charity of
the donor's choice.
Ravalli Republic, June 2, 1986
Contributed by Karolyn Simpson
JOSIAH BUSH
November 15, 1844 - June 27, 1929
JOSIAH BUSH, VALLEY PIONEER DIED THURSDAY
Josiah Bush, pioneer settler of the Bitter Root Valley
and known to practically everyone from Hamilton to the Big Hole, died at
his home here Thursday night after but a short illness. Mr. bush had, however,
been in poor health for many years. He would have been 85 years of age November
15th.
The deceased was born in Barren County, Kentucky. There
he married George Ann Landrum and the couple went to Colorado where they
lived until the wife died. To this union, three children were born. They
are D.T. Bush of Colorado, J.L. Bush of Ross Hole, and Mrs. Jennie Gorham
of Missoula. The father later married again, in Colorado, but his union,
too, was dissolved by death of the wife. The Bush family left Colorado returning
to Kentucky where Mr. Bush married Emma Kirtley at Horse Cave. They then
came to Montana, locating first at Grantsdale and later in Ross Hole. They
arrived here in 1890.
Funeral services were held Monday from Dowling's Mortuary
chapel. Rev. H.H. Longnecker was in charge. Interment was made in Riverview
Cemetery. Pallbearers were W.A. McElroy, Clarence Smithey, Sam Reynolds,
Hugh Centers, J.J. Fitzbottom, and Arthur Baker.
Besides his wife, the deceased is survived by four children:
T.L. Bush, J.L. Bush, Jennie Gorham, and Edith Hilton; five grandchildren,
and one great grandchild.
Joe Bush was a remarkable character, one who made an indelible
impression upon all who acquainted themselves with him. He was a keen observer
of life and somewhat of a philosopher. He owned the ability to tuck apt descriptions
on persons and things and he possessed a will power which made convictions,
once arrived upon, ironbound and unyielding. He was a staunch Democrat in
politics, and activity in which he took great interest.
He possessed a strong love for his home and family, was
self-sacrificing, and always thoughtful of others. He will be mourned by
scores who knew him.
The Western News, July 4, 1929
CALPURNIA DOROTHY BUTLER
September 24, 1895 - June 9, 1919
DEATH OF YOUNG LADY. Miss Calpurnia Butler Passed Peacefully Away Monday
Morning at Five O'clock.
Death claimed Miss Calpurnia Dorothy Butler Monday Morning.
She passed peacefully away at the home of her sister, Mrs. J.M. Flugstad,
in Pine Grove addition at 5 o'clock. Death was not unexpected, as she had
been gradually sinking for several months. She came here with her mother
from Simms several weeks ago.
Miss Butter was a Bitter Root girl. She was born just
west of Hamilton and had lived in this section nearly all her life. She was
nearly 24 years old, being born September 24, 1895. Her school days were
spent in Hamilton, graduating from the high school in 1913. On the sixth
anniversary of her graduation, she was laid away for the long sweet sleep
of eternity. She decided to fit herself as a teacher and graduated from the
state normal school at Dillon. Moving with her parents to Simms, she was
employed as a teacher in the school of that place and was a favorite with
scholars and parents.
The deceased was the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
H.M. Butler, and besides her sister, Mrs. J.M. Flugstad, is survived by a
brother, Donald Butler. The funeral was held at the Flugstad residence Wednesday
afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. J.C. Irwin of the Presbyterian Church officiated
and vocal music was provided by Mrs. G.A. Gordon and Mrs. J.C. Conkey. Many
floral offerings testified to the popularity of the young lady. The body
was interred in the Corvallis Cemetery, where rest several of her relatives.
Ravalli Republican, June 13, 1919
HORATIO M. BUTLER
July 1852 - January 20, 1934
Early Day Forest Ranger Buried at Corvallis
Old-time Republican Central Committeeman Active to Last Day of Eighty-two
Years.
Horatio M. Butler, resident of the Bitter Root Valley
for most of the years since 1886, died at his home near Charlos Heights early
Saturday morning following a brief illness. He had been in Hamilton the previous
day attending to business matters and chatting with friends. Paralytic attacks
suffered during the night were responsible for his death at 6:30 o'clock.
He was 82 years of age.
Mr. Butler was a native of Plattville, Wisconsin, born
in 1852. His childhood and early life were spent in that state and in Illinois.
His father was a steamboat captain on the Mississippi river for several years
and when the son was about 18 years of age, the family moved to Springfield,
Missouri. From that state the younger man came to the Bitter Root valley,
following his marriage to Sarah Calpernia Wan. Mr. Butler possessed an unusual
memory and incidents of his early life, marked by first-hand knowledge of
Abraham lincoln and General U.S. Grant, were often recounted in most interesting
fashion to his friends. Such memorable items of history as the Lincoln-Douglas
debate at Galena, Illinois, were among the incidents of his youth. In Missouri,
he knew "Wild Bill" Hickock.
Always keenly interested in politics, Mr. Butler was an
ardent Republican and for several years served as Republican central committee
chairman for Ravalli County. Again the choice of his party in 1932, he declined
to serve and named as his successor, N.E. Wilkerson, his friend and fellow
ranger in the days when the forest service was first established. Mr. Butler
was one of the first rangers appointed on the Bitter Root forest.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.C. Irwin at
the home Monday afternoon and burial was in the Corvallis Cemetery beside
the grave of a daughter who died in 1919 when the family lived at Great Falls.
Nephews of Mrs. Butler served as pallbearers. They were S.M. Ward, C.W..
Ward, Ray, Dan, and Lester Morris and Max Stanley. Relatives to survive Mr.
Butler are his wife, Sarah, a daughter, Mrs. J.M. (Meda) Flugstad of Bozeman,
and a son. Donald W. Butler of Harrah, Washington. They, with the latter's
son, Donald, were present at the last rites. William and Ben Butler, brothers
of the dead man, live at St. Louis, Missouri.
Ravalli Republican, January 23, 1934
ELIZABETH BUXTON
LAST RITES HELD FOR MRS. BUXTON TUESDAY
Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon for Mrs.
Elizabeth Buxton at Helmville from the Methodist Church there with Rev. Earl
Saladen officiating. Interment was made in Helmville Cemetery. The Dowling
Funeral home of Hamilton conducted the funeral.
Mrs. Buxton, who was born in Michigan 79 years ago, had
resided in the Bitter Root only about three months when death came at the
home of her daughter, Mrs. George Hall, west of Corvallis, Sunday May 12.
She came to the valley from Helmville where she had lived for many years.
Daughters surviving the deceased are Mrs. Henry Weber,
Florence, Montana; Mrs. Ethel Seter of Helmville, and Mrs. Hall. A surviving
son is Edward Buxton of Deer Lodge.
The Western News, May 16, 1940, page 1