Leona M. Steffan Jovanovich

1931 - 2007

Leona Jovanovich of Billings passed away peacefully in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho, Monday, September 10, 2007, from a brain aneurysm while visiting family with her husband. "Onie" was born on a farm near Edgar, Montana, on April 13, 1931, the daughter of Mike and Rose Steffan. Leona graduated from Edgar High School in 1949.

On November 28, 1957, Leona was united in marriage to George Jovanovich in Billings, Montana. They lived in Billings throughout their married life where their home was always open to family and friends. They hosted Christmas and New Year celebrations for many years. She enjoyed forty years of employment prior to her retirement.

Leona dearly loved to shop and always had special purchases in shopping bags set aside to give others, especially the little ones. Her niece and constant sidekick, Melanie, was always nearby. Leona and George were inseparable. They enjoyed all sporting events, dancing, eating out, going for drives, and especially time spent with family and friends. Leona was a kind and generous person. She cared deeply about children and the concerns of others, often by lighting a candle, which she kept in a special place. Leona walked many miles at West Park Plaza. She had wonderful memories of each annual 'Sister Trip' that took place over the past ten years with her four sisters.

Leona was greeted in Heaven by her mom and dad, her brothers Donnie and Wally, great niece Jessey and many other loved ones. She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 50 years, George; her brothers Jim (Minnie) Steffan, Grand Junction, CO, Monte (Judy) Steffan, Bridger, MT, Bruce (pat) Steffan, Naturita, CO, and Mike (Audrey) Steffan, Parker, CO; her sisters Alice (Bill) Richey, Powell, WY, Gloria (Bob) Thiel, Bridger, MT, Carol (Ken) Jenkins, Columbus, MT, Penny (Jim) Breen, Baker City, OR; and her sister-in-law, Janie Steffan, Billings, MT. Also surviving are Joe (Janet) Jovanovich, Coeur d' Alene, ID, Pete (Jalienne) Jovanovich, Anaconda, MT, Millie Clark, Olga (Ron) May, Jim Swain of Billings, MT, and Thelma Bischoff, Red Lodge, MT. Aunt Onie, a favorite aunt, is also survived by a multitude of precious nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews. Leona will be fondly remembered by her many additional relatives and countless friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.rn. on Friday, September 14. 2007, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary and Crematory, 1001 Alderson Avenue, Billings, MT. Internment will follow at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park. A reception will be held at the Elk's Lodge #394,934 Lewis Avenue, Billings.

Memorials may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the American Cancer Society or a charity of one's choice.

Remembrances

 

 

 

Dear George & Family, Onie was such a bright star in the neighborhood. Her beautiful smile and sweet voice will truly be missed. She was a special "Lady" and may you find some comfort in knowing how many lives she touched. We share in your sadness at the loss of a wonderful neighbor of seventeen years. Our deepest sympathy.

Bob & Darlene Wanner, Cassie, Shane, Kelsey & Kayla

Dear George and family: We were so sorry to learn about Onie. Although we didn't know her well, she was obviously a very special person. Please accept our sincere condolences.

Jim & Louise Jenkins

 

 

 

 

  
My dearest George,

You and Leona have been such an important part of our lives since we moved across the street over forty years ago. You have been ever present in all the joys and sorrows of growing up, getting married, having children, leaving, and more recently saying "Good-bye" to Mom and Dad. Your and Oni's love and support have always been a calming respite among often tumultuous times. Thank you both for your constant love - you have been angels right here on earth! You will always remain in our thoughts and prayers. We pray you may somehow find comfort in this time of sorrow.

Blessings and love always,

Dave and Bridget (B-Ann) Nutting and family

    

           

 Please leave your name and remembrances in this public guest book so we can share your thoughts with other visitors.

 

Add Your Remembrances

 



After your submission is reviewed it will be posted to this page.

 
 

Heading 3

insert content here

Our Commitment

To serve your family in the ways
you prefer -

with honesty, dignity, fairness
and trust ....

to provide the quiet, reassuring comfort

of knowing you chose the right people

to care for your family.

Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park

Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park was established by Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in the summer of 1998. It is our hope that we have created a place family’s may find peace and comfort for generations to come.