Freda Evans

Freda Evans, age 83, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Wyndstone Assisted Living in Billings. Freda was born to Oswald and Otille Hennig in Borowo, Poland, and immigrated to Germany at age 7. Her courage and determination saw her through the hardships endured living in war-torn Germany. The family then immigrated to Canada when she was 15. The move to Canada was not without hardship, as she spoke no English. She was placed in third grade after taking English with other immigrants. Education was very important to her and she advanced quickly. She immigrated to the United States after marrying Seigfried Neumann in the spring of 1954. They ranched and made their home in Geyser, Montana, raising their four children until Seigfried passed away in 1969. Freda then moved to Stanford, Montana, after marrying Tom Evans in 1971. She continued to help with ranching chores while maintaining an immaculate house and large garden.

Freda was a very hard worker who sewed for her children and grandchildren. She later enjoyed building quilts for her family. Freda was also an excellent cook, and was always on the hunt for a new recipe to ensure her family always had an incredible home-cooked meal. Celebrating her religion was also something close to her heart and she was always willing to volunteer, serving and making food for events. She could always turn a meal for two into a banquet for a hundred and two. She was a very loving and caring mother and grandmother, cherished by her children and grandchildren, who benefited from her love and discipline. As a testament to her commitment to education, she encouraged all of her children and grandchildren through college, with some earning multiple and advanced degrees.

Freda is survived by her children, Gordon (Reba) Neumann of Worland, Wyoming, Bruce (Sue) Neumann of Geyser, Montana, Sharon (Kelly) Dubbs of Billings, Montana, and Karen (Mike) Latka of Helena, Montana. She is also survived by her siblings Horst (Alice) Hennig and Trudy (Henry) Blanke of Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Canada; and sister-in-law Marie Hennig. Her grandchildren include Michelle, Christine, Deidre, Ryan, Matt, Cassie, Mandy, Mikaela, Anthony, and six great-grandchildren, with one on the way. She is also survived by 17 nieces and 18 nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oswald and Otille; her brothers, Harry and Senno; and her spouses, Seigfried and Tom.   

Her service will be held at noon on Friday, April 8, at St. Ann’s Cathedral in Great Falls, with a lunch following at Haute Hive, 721 Central Ave. Her ashes will be interred at a later date on the family ranch. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the American Cancer Society or Montana Alzheimer's Association in her name.

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