Gordon C. Brandes
Gordon C. Brandes passed away peacefully on June 10, 2019, at the age of 93. Gordie was preceded in [...]
Bonnie Yurko
A beautiful baby girl was born to Fred and Carrie Pierce on a warm summer night on Aug. 14, 1927. She entered this world with a kick and a smile and remained a precious and gentle soul until her last breath. A lifelong Billings resident, she went to McKinley Elementary, Billings Senior High, and then on to the University of Montana, where she met her husband Jack. After a few cold and harsh winters in eastern Montana, where Jack was employed as a geologist, they returned to Billings to raise their three sons Jeffery, Eric and Chad.
An avid bridge player to the end. “Mom, what are you doing this week ?” “Well, I have bridge Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.” In her later years, she enthusiastically cheered for the Montana Grizzlies, although the rules of the game occasionally escaped her. “Tell me again how many points for a touchdown.”
We will forever cherish our mother “in every leaf that trembles, in every grain of sand,” in the true colors of her flower garden, in the fragile legs of a newborn colt, and in the eclectic collection of antiques she gathered over a lifetime.
Bonnie is survived by her two sons, Chad and Jeffery; her daughter- in- law Diana Bjorgen (whom she adored and lovingly incorporated in to the family); her loyal kitty, Heide; and so, so many friendships that will endure through all space and time. She was preceded in death by her husband Jack and her son Eric, of whom she was so enormously proud.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at Mayflower Congregational Church, 2940 Poly Drive.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to ZooMontana or a charity of your choice.
Our deepest condolences to Jeff and Chad. We were saddened too see that Bonnie had passed. She was definitely one of our favorites, of mom and dad’s friends for sure. She was always so nice and fun to talk to, she will be missed.
It is with heavy heart that I read Bonnies Obit. Thought distance has always separated us she has always held a special place in my heart. She is the reason George, my husband and I met. She and I were roommates at the U. of Mont. for two years George called Bonnie to ask for a date and she told him she had a date with Jack but her roommate did not. That is how George and I met. In July we celebrated our 67 anniversary. You could not help but love Bonnie. She had a quiet loving nature. Our friendship goes back 74 years. and my do the memories abound. Our prayers are for her glorious journey to heaven. This remembrance is to Chad , Jeffery and Diana.
George and Helen (Merrill) Fox
Naples, Florida.+
Dearest Jeff, Chad and Diane:
Please accept my deepest condolences. I was greatly saddened to hear of your mother’s passing. In our younger days your mother and I enjoyed visiting with each other often even if only by phone. My love and thoughts go out to you all. I will miss her immensely. Keith sends his love and prayers too.
I am so sorry to read about Bonnie’s passing. She was a dear and true friend of my mother’s. I know she will be very missed.
Christie ( Hansen) Arnold