Emeliene (Em) Kolstad

November 1, 1913 - October 23, 2007

In April of 1913, a father leaves Belgium and immigrates to American to prepare the way for his family (wife with child and two children).

In 1914 a War breaks out in Europe, travel to America is banned, and for 6 long years the father helps build the Trans-Canadian railroad while a family of four (wife and 3 children) endure the wars invasions and family separated.

Then in 1919 the European hostilities end, the Canadian Pacific railroad construction joins north of Montana and the father finds work in the Coal Mines of Bearcreek Montana.

A mother, two daughters and a son boarded a steamer ship for a long journey across the ocean, docking at Ellis Island. They then traveled by train to be re- united with the father at the Billings Depot.

The youngest of the 3 children Em Kolstad, 6 years old at the time, sees her Father for the first time in 1919 and goes on to become Valedictorian of her class in Bearcreek Montana and then settles in Billings were she married, raised a family, and touched so many many people with her dignity, wisdom, faith, and understanding.

Emeliene Estelle Verhaeghe Kolstad was born in Meulebeke, Belgium Nov. 1, 1913. She passed away Tuesday Oct 23, 2007, just one week away from her 94th Birthday., knowing the comfort and love provided by her family, special friends, and the caregivers at Billings Clinic Aspen Meadows.

She was Married to Laif Kolstad at St. Patrick's Church in 1937 and they enjoyed 56 years of married life. Building the family home at 2217 Poly Drive, Billings, Montana.

Em was preceded in death by her mother and father, Marie and Cyriel Verhaeghe, husband Laif, infant son Ron, son Ken, daughter-in-law Rosie, and two brothers Marcel and Art Verhagehe.

She is survived by: her son Gene Kolstad (Dot), sister Madeline Weldy, grandchildren: Darlene (Bob), Renee (Joel), Kim, & Kristin, sister-in-law Elsie, great-grandchildren: Jarrett, Cassie, Shane, Tray, Kelsey, Kayla, Arik, Zak, Koby, & Nickolas, her many friends, nieces and nephews.

Em provided many with the comfort of trusting conversations. She loved it, and would sparkle, when you asked her a question. We suppose because she generally knew the answer or could offer advice that was to the point and backed with sound reasoning. Her words of assurance, belief in confidentiality, and simple advice, will always be remembered

She was expert at, and taught classes in fiber arts including; spinning, knitting, weaving , bobbin lace, crochet, and needle point.

She was an active member of: St Thomas Parish, Billings Weavers Guild, Prairie Hand-spinners, Thread-benders and Birthday Club.

Em exhibited at, or performed fiber art demonstrations at: Yellowstone County Fair, Western Heritage Center, Red Lodge festival of Nations, and towns across Montana.

She was selected by the Ellis Island National Historical Archive group to be one of 4 Montanans whose voice and recollection of travel thru Ellis Island as an immigrant, is recorded as a forever exhibit to be listened to by those who visit the Historic Monument.

Her teachings and advice will live on thru the many who knew her, and we all are better people because of the knowledge she passed along and her dignity as a person. She seldom complained, regardless of the situation, and will always be an inspiration. She loved the world around her, and it loved her in return. If she was not already an angel, it is likely that she was, for sure she is by now.

Cremation has taken place. The Rosary will be said 4pm Sunday at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Funeral mass will be 11am Monday at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Billings Clinic Foundation or the charity of one’s choice.