JoAnn Stein

Anita JoAnn Stein

June 28, 1937 – May 14, 2025

Anita JoAnn Stein, born in Kidder County, ND, on June 28, 1937, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 87 on May 14, 2025.

JoAnn was raised on the family farm in Tuttle, North Dakota, alongside her sister Lila and parents Mabel and Calvin Knutson. She attended Tuttle High School, where she excelled in girls basketball and contributed to the high school newspaper, graduating with honors. At 17, JoAnn met the love of her life, Adam Stein, while roller skating in Tuttle. They married on July 19, 1954, and moved to Mineral Wells, Texas, where Adam was stationed in the Army. JoAnn actively supported servicemen by repairing, laundering, and pressing their uniforms.

JoAnn and Adam welcomed their first son, Audie, in 1956 before Adam's discharge from the Army. The family then moved to Billings, Montana, where JoAnn waitressed at the Skyline Club while Adam worked at the Sugar Factory and drove a water truck. JoAnn became a full-time mother and homemaker with the birth of their second son, Randie, in 1960, followed by their third son, Peter, in 1964. She was deeply involved in her sons' lives, serving as classroom mother for both Randie and Pete’s classes, and was known for her dedication and protective nature. She was known as a mother bear.

Later, JoAnn became a full-time babysitter to her grandchildren, Katie and Luke. After several years, she worked as a seamstress at Spic and Span Dry Cleaners before retiring to care for her great-grandchild, Haley, who brought immense joy to her life. JoAnn cherished her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

An excellent cook, JoAnn shared many beloved recipes and enjoyed seam stressing, crocheting, gardening, fishing, and camping with her family. She took pride in her gardens, processing all the vegetables they raised, and passed her love of gardening onto her sons.

JoAnn is survived by her husband Adam; her three sons, Audie (Diana), Randie, and Pete (Toni); six grandchildren, Katie, Neal, Matt, Justin, Luke, and Kevin; and eight great-grandchildren.

The family invites those who wish to share a story about JoAnn to send it to dstein737@gmail.com or bring it to the service. Stories will be read aloud for those who prefer not to speak in public or cannot attend.

Funeral services will be held at Michelotti-Sawyers, 1001 Alderson Ave., Billings, MT, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 11 am. Graveside service will follow at Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel, MT, at 1:00 pm. A luncheon will be held at the FOE Eagles Club, 526 Laurie Lane, Billings, MT.