Erma Vandegenachte
Erma Vandegenachte, 83, lifelong
resident of Billings, passed away on Monday, August 30, 2010.
Erma suffered a debilitating stroke in mid August.
She was born September 11, 1926 in Huntley, the oldest of four
daughters of Mary and Herman Sian. Erma left the family farm to
marry Charles E. Vandegenachte and became an Army
wife. After tours of duty in Texas and New Jersey, Erma and
Charles returned to Billings to start civilian life.
Erma was a housewife dedicated to raising her son Robert,
maintaining a happy home for Charles and participating in
many family events. Erma and Charles loved to dance, play
cards and socialize with family and friends.
Erma believed strongly in her faith and was a devoted member
of St. Pius X Catholic Church.
Erma was a strong woman even as her body grew frail in later
life. She survived a major automobile accident, heart
surgery, and two years ago two surgeries to her back. Each
time, she came back with more resolve and a stronger will to
live. She is at peace now.
Erma was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years,
Charles, her sister Evelyn and her mother and father.
Erma is survived by her son Robert (Sue) of Billings,
grandchildren Jeff (Susan), Willow (Rock), Erin (Shane) and
great grandchildren Elizabeth, Kayci, Kaleb and Matthew,
sisters Violet (Cal) and Mary Jean (Arnold), sister-in-law
Erma and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Erma was admired for her strong will and happy disposition.
She will be missed by all who touched her life.
Visitation for Erma will be at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary
on Thursday, September 2nd from 3:00pm-8:00pm. Rosary will
be at 7:00pm Thursday at Michelotti-Sawyers. Funeral Mass
will be at 11:00am on Friday, September 3rd at St. Pius X
Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.
A reception will follow at the Church.
Memorials may be made to the American Legion, Yellowstone Post 4.
Remembrances
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Dear Bob
and family,
I went to school with you at the University of Montana in Missoula. We
were saddened to learn of your mother's passing. Never easy to loose a
parent, no matter what the age. We send our prayers and condolences to
you all.
We moved back to Montana about a year ago and are building a new home
just outside Columbus. Hope the rest of your family is well.
Barb (Brensdal) and Corky Kem
Columbus, MT
Bob,
I am sorry to hear about your mother's passing. I always enjoyed
visiting with her and your dad as we grew up at West High and at U
of M. It has sure been a long time ago. I lost my mother 3 1/2 years
ago. It is a sad time but to have them released from their pain is a
positive thing.
Donna and I live in southern Missouri near Branson and have for the
last 7 1/2 years. We like it down here and it is a lot closer to our
daughters and their families than if we lived in Billings. I haven't
been back to Billings since shortly after Mom died. I had a hard
time moving here after living in Billings 57 years. Not sure I want
to open those feelings again, at least not at this time. Write if
you have a chance or a call would -be great too.
Dale