Veronica Shrader

Veronica Metcalf was born to Charles and Margaret Metcalf in Preston, Lancashire, England on December 22, 1929. She immigrated to the United States in 1954 and settled in Wolf Point, Montana, joining her two sisters. She met her future husband, Wayne Shrader, in Wolf Point. They were married on March 17, 1956 . Together they raised four children: James (Jim), Patricia (Trish), Kevin, and Ann. In 1973 the family moved to Billings.

Vera, as she was known to her family and friends, poured herself into being the best wife and mother that she could. Her life was one of care and service for others. She was always actively involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren. Vera volunteered in their church regularly. She also volunteered with the Billings Studio Theatre assisting with costumes and sewing.

Vera is remembered fondly by her family for her very British sense of humor and for her stories about her childhood, particularly during World War II.

Vera died on November 14, 2006 after a brief battle with an aggressive brain tumor. She left this world surrounded by her husband, her children, and their spouses in her home.

Vera is survived by her husband, Wayne Shrader of Billings; her son Jim Shrader (Debbie) of Richland, Washington; her daughter Trish Loken (Duane) of Billings; her son, Kevin Shrader (Kathleen) of Oregon, Wisconsin; her daughter, Ann Christiaens (Dean) of Billings; her sister, Catherine Wolf of St. Paul, Minnesota; her brother, Jim Metcalf of Auckland, New Zealand; her grandchildren Rodney Shrader, Amanda Burnett (Wade), Zachary Shrader, Charlie, Andrew, and David Loken, Emily and Chris Shrader, Kevin Alan, Ben, Seth, Sara, and Hannah Christiaens; and her great grandson Jacob Burnett.

The vigil will be at 7:00 pm on Thursday, November 16 at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 on Friday, November 17 at St. Pius X Catholic Church of Billings.

Memorials can be made to Big Sky Hospice or to St. Pius X Catholic Church.