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


    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


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


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


    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

Ore Boding Dies, Was Resident of Valley For Many Years, Rites Here
    Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon at Dowling chapel for Ore T. Boding, who died in Missoula Sunday, April 26 after a long illness. Death was due to cancer. The Hamilton Elks lodge, of which he was a charter member, conducted the rites at he chapel and interment was in Riverview cemetery. Pallbearers were Fritz Zoske, James Thompson, Robert Weber, Harley Rasmussen, Victor Lagerquist and Hugh Hennessey.
    Olaff Trygve Boding was born April 19, 1901 at Ashland, Wisconsin. He came to Montana with his parents when he was about six years old during the time the valley was noted for apple growing. He attended Corvallis and Hamilton schools and then the family moved to Missoula where his parents are at rest in a Missoula cemetery. Mr. Boding was married in Hamilton to Eva Ione Thompson February 9, 1927, with their attendants being Miss Mildred Martin and William R. Doak. Justice of the Peace E.C. Whaley united the couple in marriage.
    They moved to Kalispell in 1946 and to Anchorage, Alaska in 1950. Ore Boding was possessed of a friendly personality and a contagious humor. He was endowed with exceptional ability in many lines of endeavor. Not only was he proficient in apple packing and its related lines, he was competent as a cook and restaurant and tavern operator, operating in these capacities for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Boding operated the Model cafe in Hamilton for several years. Ore was a lover of nature and sports. Perhaps his chief delight was fishing and he was willing to undergo all sorts of hardships in order to find secluded lakes and streams where he could try his skill against game fish.
    Boding;s passing will be found untimely by a circle of friends which extended from the Bitter Root throughout western Montana into the Alaskan area.
    Surviving Mr. Boding are a son Keith of Seattle; daughters Mrs. Jack (Joyce) Stone, Las Vegas, Nevada, Mrs. Wesley (Phyllis) Gander, Missoula, Mrs. Joseph (Colleen) Dascoli, Kalispell; ten grandchildren; sisters Mrs. Robert (Inga) Matthews, Las Vegas, Mrs. Al (Ann) Boyer, Los Angeles; brother Chriss Boding, Missoula.
The Western News, April 30, 1959

    Charles R. Bohler, 85, passed away at his residence Thursday afternoon. He was born Sept 1, 1894 in Butte and moved with his family as a young boy to Corvallis where he was raised. In his adult years he ranched near Woodside. He married Clara E. Schults in Missoula on January 10, 1917.
    He was employed by the city of Hamilton from 1946 to 1959 and he was also employed at the Rocky Mountain Lab from 1942 until 1945. He moved from Woodside into Hamilton several years ago.
    Survivors include his wife Clara of Hamilton, one daughter, Charlotte Hughes, East Fork, two grandsons and a great granddaughter and one brother May Cole Bohler of Portland, Oregon. Masonic funeral services will be conducted Monday, 2 pm at the Dowling Funeral Home with the Corvallis Masons officiating. Interment will be at the Corvallis Cemetery.
Abstract from Ravalli Republic December 21, 1979

Theodore Boldt Died At His Roaring Lion Area Home
Funeral services were held this afternoon at Dowling chapel for Theodore Boldt, 76, Roaring Lion district who died unexpectedly at his home Saturday evening. Rev. Elmore Blaine officiated and interment was in Riverview Cemetery.
    Mr. Boldt was born May 1, 1900 in Detroit Lakes, Minn. He was educated in Minnesota and was a mechanic. He moved to Harlowton in 1938 and had a car dealership, He married Felsie Decker December 30, 1940 in Billings. They moved to west of Hamilton in 1941 and ranched. In 1956, he went to work at the Davison Service Station until 1966 when he returned to ranching. He was a member of the Methodist church.
    Surviving beside the widow is a son, Ted J, Hamilton; brother Martin in Arkansas; Roosevelt in Minnesota and Ed in Washington. His parents, two sisters and six brothers preceded him in death.
    Pallbearers were Al Houston, Bob Davison, Scott Stewart, V.C. Hollingsworth, Douglas Galbraith and Willis Bolin.
The Western News, March 31, 1976

Darrell Walter Bonner, 51, of Corvallis died Thursday, December 12, 1996 in Missoula. He was born on November 20, 1945 in Glendive, Montana to Walter A. and Betty L. Bacon Bonner.
    Survivors include his parents of Corvallis; one sister, Nancy, and brother-in-law John Gonzalez of Corvallis; two daughters, Cindy Bonner of Glendive and Charman Bonner in Minot, North Dakota; one son, Walter Bonner in Indiana; five grandchildren and numerous aunts and uncles.
    Cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time. Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville is in charge of arrangements.
Abstract from the Bitter Root Star, December 18, 1996, page 12


    Ruth M. Bonner, 76, of Stevensville died Sunday, June 4, 1995 at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in Hamilton. She was born February 17, 1919 in Meade County, Kansas, the daughter of Lloyd and Jessie Schell.
    On November 28, 1941, she married Eldredge S. Bonner in Leoti, Kansas. They lived in Leoti, Kansas and moved to Colorado in 1964.
    Surviving are three sons, Gene Bonner, of Stevensville, Bill Bonner, of Marinette, Wisconsin, and Robert Bonner of El Paso, Texas; a daughter, Janet Dierks, of Leoti; three sisters, Dorothy Foos of Gove, Kansas, Jessie Wallace of Agate, Colorado, and Esther of Plains, Kansas; a brother, John Schell of Plains, Kansas; 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband n 1982 as well as a sister, Lena, and a brother, Roy.
    Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Fairview Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Local arrangements are by the Dowling Funeral Home.
Abstract from the Ravalli Republic, June 6, 1995

    Samuel J. Boscarino, 69, a longtime businessman in Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley, died Friday in Stevensville. He took his own life after fighting terminal cancer for 18 months.
    He was born December 29, 1917 in Fresno, Calif., to Paul and Lucy Boscarino who had emigrated from Palermo, Italy in 1905. Educated at the St. Alphonse School in Fresno, he began his career at the age of 6 at the Fresno Hotel. He later went on to work at the Hollywood Plaza and the Hollywood Alexander in Los Angeles. In 1940, he moved to Missoula to help open the new Florence Hotel.
    He enlisted in the US Marines in September 1942 and served with Carson�s 3rd Raider Battalion for 33 months in New Caledonia, Guam, Okinawa and Japan, until the Japanese surrender. After the war, he joined the Missoula Mercantile staff as display director, a position he held
Ravalli Republic, June 1, 1987

HOLD LAST RITES FOR MRS. BOWDEN
    A large crowd paid tribute to the memory of Mrs. Joseph Bowden, who died Sunday of asthma at her Corvallis home, at funeral services from Dowling's Chapel yesterday afternoon. The Rev. Thomas Bennett, Missoula, officiated and interment 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. After about two years, they went back to Missoula and then in about two years' time again returned to Corvallis, Mr. Bowden purchasing the store he now owns from the M.M. in about 1897 or 1898.
    Mrs. Bowden, who was buyer for the dry good department for many years, spent her winters in California, returning only recently from there. She was a life-long member of the Church of England and was a member of the Episcopal church here.
    Survivors include her widower and son, Dudley, Corvallis, and a sister, Mrs. F.E. Acutt, Melbourne, Australia.
Ravalli Republican, May 8, 1941 

Dudley F. Bowden Rites To Be Held Saturday At The Dowling Chapel
    Funeral services will be held at the Dowling chapel Saturday at 2 o`clock in the afternoon for Dudley Bowden; 75, longtime Corvallis merchant who died this morning at about 2 o`clock at the community hospital in Missoula after an extended illness death was due to cancer which afflicted him 4 years ago. Interment will be in Corvallis cemetery beside the grave of a son.
    Dudley Francis Bowden was born June 21, 1893 in Corvallis a son of Joseph and Ann Summers Bowden. The elder Bowden came to Corvallis in 1890 and operated a store for the Missoula merc. Later established his own hardware store and implement store in Corvallis. He died in January 1942 and Miss Bowden died in May 1941. They were buried in Missoula cemetery.
     �Dud� Bowden attended school in Corvallis, attended the college Montana in Deer Lodge, and served in the air force in World War 1 and returned home to go into business with his father. He married Clara Dell Shriver  at her home in Missoula. The couple became the parents of a son and a daughter. The son, at the age of 12 on Oct. 30, 1943, accidentally met his death from gunshot wound. Mr. Bowden sold the business and retired several years ago. He survived by his widow, by the daughter. Mrs. James (Diane) Stoner, grandson Eric and the son-in-law who live in Missoula.
�Dud� Bowden is also survived by many friends. He was a good husband, a congenial businessman and a good citizen.
Abstract from Ravalli Republic, Wednesday, August 14, 1968

    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

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

Jessie A. Bright Dies
Early-Day East Fork Homesteader Buried in Riverview Cemetery; West Side Farmer Since 1920
    Jesse Alonzo Bright, a resident of the west side district since 1920, died at the Daly hospital during Friday night after an extended illness. Born on November 5, 1867 at Independence, Iowa, Mr. Bright was in his 73rd year. He first came to the Bitter Root valley as a young man, homesteading land in the East Fork section in the 80�s. In later years, he moved to coast states, returning to the valley in 1920. A son, Everett resides here. Logan and Lawrence Bright of Hamilton are nephews.
    Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Earl Saladen at the Dowling chapel Tuesday afternoon and interment was in Riverview cemetery. Those ot serve as pallbearers were George C. Downing, Herman Swearinger, Mitchell Leptich, Ben Nichols and George and lloyd Raymond. Mr. Bright was a typical western character with many friends among the old-time residents. He was  farmer by occupation.
Ravalli Republican, April 25, 1940

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

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 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
John Brooks, 77, Dies Here Friday
    John Brooks died in Daly Hospital Friday morning. Mr. Brooks was born in Iowa, August 14, 1873, came to the Bitter Root in 1900, and settled on a farm near Corvallis. Preceding him in death were his first wife and a daughter. He was married to Ada Gunter in Hamilton in 1943. Survivors include the widow; two sons, L.S. and Cecil, both of Portland, Oregon; a sister, Mrs. George West, Spokane, Washington; two brothers, William, Aurora, Nebraska, and Elva, Caney, Kansas. Burial will be in Riverview cemetery and the funeral his been tentatively set for Monday afternoon. Arrangements are pending the arrival of the sons.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republican, September 29, 1950

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

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

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 
MONTANA PIONEER, AMOS BUCK PASSED AWAY AT STEVENSVILLE HOME
One of the Last Survivors of the Big Hold Battle and an Early Day Horticulturist
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
   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

Death of Mrs. Buck
    Death has again visited a Stevensville household, and this time has taken away a beloved wife and devoted mother.  Mrs. Henry Buck died shortly after noon on Monday, of pleuro-pneumonia.  Mrs. Buck was taken ill on Tuesday of last week with an attack of la grippe, which quickly turned to pneumonia, and the disease made rapid progress in a not over strong constitution.  All the remedies that science could bring to bear seemed to have no effect, and early this week it was seen that the end was but a matter of hours.     
    The funeral was held from the family residence this afternoon, the services being conducted by Rev. D. B. Price, who came down from Hamilton to officiate for one whom he had appreciated as a woman and a friend.  A very large concourse of friends attended to evidence the esteem in which deceased was held, and many were the expressions of sorrow and of sympathy for the bereaved husband and children.
    Mrs. Buck, whose maiden name was Clara E. Elliott, was born Jan. 9, 1858, at Jefferson City, Iowa, and was consequently a little more than 39 years old.  She was married at Skalkaho, just above Grantsdale, to Henry Buck, one of Stevensville�s leading businessmen, on April 2d, 1878, nineteen years ago on the 2d of next month. 
    She leaves two children: Freddie, 13 years old, and Clarence, 6 years old.  Deceased was a very loving and affectionate mother, and had a warm place in her heart for all motherless children, having adopted, about two years ago, the infant daughter of Mrs. Hickey, but which died only a few months ago, sincerely mourned as one of her own by the kind heart that supplied a mother�s place.  The sympathy of the whole community goes out to the husband and children.
The Ravalli Republican, Stevensville, MT, Wednesday, Mar. 31, 1897, p. 3, c. 3
Contributed by Laurance B. VanMeter

    Eugene F. Buckallew, 74, died Tuesday, October 18, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. He was born October 3, 1914 in Green River, MO, to Willy and Ollie Ledford Buckallew. He married Sarilda Kimmel on November 26, 1938 in Missoula. He worked at the sugar beet factory filing knives and worked for Leonard Leese in a potato factory. He played the guitar and entertained at rest homes. He fought forest fires and was a member of the Three Mile Volunteer Fire Department.
    He is survived by his wife, Sarilda of Stevensville, two daughters, Ella Stroud and Daisy Jones of Stevensville, two sons, Del of Stevensville and Roy of Three Forks, one brother, Raymond of Lancaster, MO, two half-brothers, Edward of Lancaster, MO, and Glen of Kahoka, MO, six half-sisters, Lorean Davis, Nadine Anders, Delpine Owens, Ilene Anders, Phillis Marrow and Wineve Haws, all of Missouri, eleven grandchildren, four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a grandson
    Graveside funeral service will be Friday, October 21, at 2 p.m. at the Sunnyside Cemetery at Three Mile with the Rev. Lester Keller officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from noon to 9 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Whitesitt Chapel in Stevensville.
Abstract from Ravalli Republic, October 20, 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

Death At Woodside
William Harvey Buckridge Passed Away Wednesday and Will Be Buried at Victor Today
Corvallis, May 23 - William Harvey Buckridge died at his home near Woodside Wednesday evening from valvular disease of the heart, from which he had been troubled for several years.
    He was a native of Missouri, being born in Gentry County, April 10, 1867. He came to the Bitter Root valley in the spring of 1888, and he was married 10 years later to Miss Dora Van Blaricom. Since his marriage, he worked at the blacksmith trade. He first worked at Victor, then three years in Washing and the remainder of the time at Woodside. he owned a ranch north of Woodside.
    The deceased is survived by a widow and three children, David, Nora, and Harvey Buckridge; two sisters, Mrs. Peter Elliott and Mrs. William Gunter of Woodside, and Mrs. Rose Kline, who came here from Missouri to be at her nephew�s bedside. He was a man of the highest integrity and he is mourned by many friends.
    The funeral was held at Victor this (Friday) morning under the auspices of the Masons and the interment was in the Victor cemetery, beside the grave of his infant son.
Ravalli Republican, May 23, 1919

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

    Martha Anne Burke, who was 1956 national Mother of the Year, a pro-live activist and newspaper correspondent for the Ravalli Republic and the Bitterroot Star, died Friday in Stevensville. She was 77.
    She was born Martha Anna Immele on November 1, 1913 in Pilot Grove, MO. In 1937, she graduated from the St. Louis University School of Nursing with a bachelor�s degree, and took a position with Butte�s St. James Hospital School of Nursing as an instructor. She married William J. Burke in 1939 in Butte and the couple resided there until 1973. They lived in Missoula for six years, they moved to Stevensville in 1979. She was the mother of 12 children and was very active in the pro-life movement and the promotion of motherhood as a profession, was involved in politics, serving as vice chairman of the Democratic Central Committee in Butte and the president of the Democratic Women�s Club in Missoula.
    Survivors include her husband, William J. Burke of Stevensville; seven sons William of Chapel Hill, NC, Patrick and Daniel, both of Seattle, Martin and Kevin, both of Missoula, Denis of Helena and Maurice of Bozeman; five daughters, Bernadette Johnson of Colorado Springs, CO, Catherine McNellis and Marcell Hanson, both of Helena, Clarita of Tucson, AZ, and Maureen McNulty of Stevensville. Also surviving are two sisters, Isabelle Kempf of Boonville, MO and Anastasia Stewart of Brunswick, MO; a brother, Leonard Immele of Kansas City, MO; 22 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and several other relatives.
    Rosary will be recited today at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary�s Catholic Church, Mass of Christian Burial will be at the church at noon Tuesday with the Rev. William Gannon and the Rev Thomas Gannon officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary�s Cemetery in Stevensville under the direction of the Whitesitt Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials to the church, to the Ravalli County chapter of Right to Life or to Loyola-Sacred Heart High School in Missoula.
Abstract from: Ravalli Republic, January 7, 1991

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

    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

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
    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 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, 1926, 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

Rites Held For James Burton, 83, Florence
Stevensville - Funeral services for James Burton, 83, Florence resident who died at a local rest home Friday, were held at the Whitesitt chapel Monday afternoon. Rev. A.L. Swarens officiated. Graveside rites at Maplewood cemetery were conducted by Garden Valley Lodge No. 14, I.O.O.F. Mr. Burton was born in Bolivar, MO and moved to Florence 55 years ago to take up farming. He is survived by a sister, Martha Schaffer, Florence, and several nieces and nephews.
Ravalli Republican, March 17, 1952

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

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           
                                  

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