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Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Avenue, Billings, MT (2025)

11/26/2025

Daniel Wayne Cole

Daniel Wayne Cole, 28, of Billings, Montana, left the earthly world to make a home in heaven on November 24, 2025.

Daniel was born to parents Sheila Blanton-Cole and Robert Wayne Cole, in their home state of New York, on July 22, 1997. He spent most of his childhood in Northeast Tennessee, alongside his three younger brothers Aiden Graham Cole, Logan Chayne Cole, and Ryder James Cole, who he was an incredible example and support for as they grew up together. The family relocated to Laurel, Montana in September 2014, where he met the love of his life, Abigail Ruth Peterson of Laurel, daughter of Michael and Rebecca Peterson.

Daniel worked for American Airlines out of Logan International Airport in Billings, where he had a shining reputation with his superiors and co-workers alike. He was entrusted to fill many shoes at work and helped in an instant when he discovered he was needed. Some of his roles included a baggage service office agent, ground security coordinator, internal controls agent, and station trainer. He took great pride in and enjoyed his work life, and was highly respected and appreciated by his superiors. For this, he will be remembered for his amazing and relentless work ethic.

Daniel was deeply beloved by his friends and peers both near and far, and all were considered family to him. A tabletop role-playing hobbyist and video game enthusiast, Daniel enjoyed online simulators in the military genre and sharing many gaming sessions with close friends, building countless powerful friendships through his love of the craft. He will be remembered for his family loyalty, intense patriotism, and phenomenal wit, but paramount to all was Daniel’s generosity of spirit. He would never want anyone to be left out, left alone, or left behind, and made sure that whenever he was needed, he would lend a hand. His legacy of caring for others inspires us to share as much of ourselves we are able to spare, because this world is nothing without humanity for one another.

Daniel will be interred at Rosebud Cemetery in Absarokee, Montana. If anyone wants to send flowers, his family requests that they be sent to Michelotti-Sawyers Funeral Home in Billings, Montana for Saturday’s service, or donations in his honor can be sent to 988lifeline.org/donate for Su***de Prevention efforts.

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11/21/2025

Ruth Francis Schatz

With her loving family at her side, Ruth Schatz, 89, went to be with the Lord on November 20, 2025. Ruth was born in Wurzburg, Germany. She survived her childhood through the hardships and horrors of WWII. In 1953, she met Ray Schatz, a young American service member stationed in Germany. They fell in love! Ruth immigrated to the United States in 1954 to marry Ray. Theirs was a whirlwind romance that blossomed into 42 years of marriage, raising their three sons and two daughters in Billings, Montana. Ray passed away in 1996.

Ruth was the embodiment of charity, compassion and others-centeredness. She was an active and involved mother to John, Rick, Jeff, Tammy & Michelle; she was also the most favorite neighborhood ‘go-to’ mom for all her kids’ friends! She was the one all the kids in the neighborhood came to. The house was always full and she baked dozens of cookies and always had treats for them to enjoy. Ruth was always driving kids to school (her kids, neighbor kids, kids she didn’t even know!); she was always at the center of her kid’s special events and her family’s recreational outings. She fried chicken and made potato salad for picnics in Red Lodge. She was an amazing cook and baker.

In the midst of all the action with her own family, Ruth managed to faithfully care for many other people: caring for their homes, their kids and their needs. Ruth routinely ran errands to the store, made hospital visits and provided meals for the many, many people she loved and cared for. On many occasions through the years, the local hospitals called on Ruth to run back-and forth to translate for German tourists who needed medical attention. On those occasions, Ruth was more than a bridge for medical assistance; she became a life-long friend and encourager, corresponding with those patients for years to come.

In one particularly challenging season, Ray and Ruth invited the wife of a hospitalized German tourist to stay in her home while, at the same time, she continued all of her other tasks and activities for her family and friends. Simply amazing!

Ruth never lost her German accent – it was a most charming and endearing characteristic that started countless conversations with strangers who would become friends. She was a warm, outgoing, joyful soul with eyes that sparkled and whose laughter was contagious.

Ruth was over-the-top devoted to her precious grandchildren; many crazy and wonderful adventures were had by various grandchildren when ‘Grams’ would load them into the car and blast off to whatever was next! As she did with her own sons, daughters and their spouses -Ruth had a way of bringing out the very best her in her grandkids. In the last several years, Ruth developed a special love, affection and bond with all of her great grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by husband Ray; brother Heinz Weigler.

Ruth is survived by her loving family: John, Rick (Brenda), Jeff (Barb), Tammy (Rob) Griggs, Michelle (James) Gerondale; her many grandchildren and great grandchildren; her brother Horst Weigler in Germany. A private family memorial service is to be held soon.

There is absolutely no way to begin to tell the countless stories of Ruth’s life, love, affection, sensitivity, influence and impact in the lives of her family, friends and community. It is deeply meaningful for her loved ones to know that she is now, of her own strong faith, in the presence of Jesus and many loved ones who have gone before her. God is good and He can be trusted!

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11/18/2025

Agnes E. Lindell

Agnes Elda “Aggie” Lindell, 88, of Jamestown, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, after a long and courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. A cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Agnes will be remembered for her unwavering determination, deep faith, and the love she poured into her family throughout her life.

Born on November 7, 1937, in Hazen, North Dakota, Agnes was the daughter of Edwin and Ida Schimke. She grew up on the prairie, where she learned the value of hard work, resilience, and strength. Her early years on the farm planted in her a love for the land that would remain a part of her heart throughout her life.

In July 1956, Agnes married Delton Morast. Together, they welcomed four children – Monte, Gerald, Randall, and Cynthia. Though life brought its challenges, including the loss of her son Gerald, Agnes’s strong will and steadfast belief in God carried her forward. In June 1968, she married Clarence Lindell, and together they shared many happy years and welcomed a son, Edwin, completing the family that would be the joy of her life. Clarence preceded her in death, but their love and companionship remain a lasting testament to their devotion.

Throughout her life, Agnes approached every role—with family, work, and community—with passion and purpose. She worked as a nursing assistant from 1975 to 1978, a position through which she offered compassion and dignity to others. Her caring heart and no-nonsense wisdom made her beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Those closest to her would often smile when she shared her famous “unsolicited advice”—a sure sign that you were loved by Aggie.

Agnes’s life was one of joy and fulfillment. She loved gardening, tending carefully to each plant as if it were a reflection of her nurturing spirit. Traveling brought her joy and provided chances to marvel and see many sights. Her kitchen was a gathering place for family and friends, filled with the scent of delicious meals and the warmth of laughter. Her greatest pride and passion were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, in whose lives her legacy of faith and love will continue.

Agnes was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Ida Schimke; her husband, Clarence Lindell; her son, Gerald Morast; her sister, Vila Blair; and her brothers, Raymond and Melton Schimke. She is survived by her children Monte Morast and his wife Connie, Randy Morast and his wife Jo, Cynthia Foster and her husband Michael, and Edwin Lindell; and by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at Mountainview Cemetery in Billings, Montana, on Monday, November 24, at 10:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend as we lay Agnes to rest and celebrate her remarkable life.

“Jesus said, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.’” — John 11:25–26

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11/18/2025

Harry Axline

Harry Axline, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Billings, Montana. He was born on March 9, 1936, in Miles City, Montana, to parents Edwin and Myrtle Axline, who preceded him in death.

Harry lived a life full of love and dedication, particularly exemplified by his enduring marriage to his beloved wife, Sara. Together, they celebrated 70 wonderful years, filling their lives with cherished memories and profound companionship. As a proud father, he took great joy in raising his daughters, Lindy Axline and Jeanne (Mike) Clausen, and his son, John (Lisa) Axline. His greatest blessings came in the form of five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom adored him and will carry forward the love and wisdom he imparted.

As we remember Harry, we celebrate a life well-lived, characterized by devotion, kindness, and the profound impact he made on those around him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all, especially his wife, Sara, and his children and grandchildren.

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11/14/2025

Verlin Koenig

Verlin Koenig passed away at home in Billings, Montana on November 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, near and far. He lived his life grounded in a sincere love for God, and walked in the path the Lord made for him, including his battle with cancer.

Verlin was born in eastern Montana to Edwin and Ida, and grew up on farms near Marsh and later in Sidney, developing a lifelong connection to ranching, agriculture, and rural community life. Though he faced loss early on (his mom and sister Jeanne), he developed a profound sense of family connection as Ed remarried Emma, gaining him a mom, two younger sisters and a brother. As the years went on, the family grew with five more brothers for him to be the elder to.

After graduating from high school, he served in the Army National Guard and worked at Holly Sugar while also farming with his dad for a few years. It was at that time that he met Diana. They were married within a year. Verlin pursued an education and earned degrees from Dawson Junior College and Montana State University, where he became a proud MSU Bobcat.

He began his career as a Vo-Ag/Shop teacher and FFA advisor in Chinook. Those eight years were full of family, community, and service. He was active in the Jaycees and developed a reputation as a committed educator. In 1980, he moved his family to Glasgow to become the Valley County Ag Agent, a role that would become his life’s calling. For nearly 30 years, Verlin poured his energy into organizing livestock judging contests, training many 4-H youth and leaders, providing agricultural programs, immersing himself in county fairs, and maintaining nearly three decades of dry land and irrigated test plots that helped shape farming decisions across the region. He was proud of those plots and the farmers who used the results to make better decisions for their operations.

Verlin's interests included hunting, woodworking, rodeos, auctioneering and even drag racing. He loved tinkering on classic muscle cars, a-Ooga! He had a fondness for tractors, windmills, and giving directions. He was the resident teller of dad jokes, puns, and one-liners. He grew roses, with his favorite being the fragrant “Mr. Lincoln.” When he wasn't sanding a deck or washing a vehicle, you might find him in contorted positions trying to snap your photo, or falling fast asleep at the start of a show. He had a sentimental streak and collected memories among many other items - carefully, intentionally, and with joy. After their retirements, Verlin and Diana relocated to Billings to be closer to family and grandchildren. He loved his family and was proud of them and found deep joy in their accomplishments and personalities.

Verlin is survived by his wife, Diana; son Camrin Koenig (Jennifer) and daughter Nancy Senitte. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kensley Koenig, Will Matlock, Caden Senitte (Renee), Ryan Senitte, and Dean Senitte. He is survived by his remaining brothers and their wives: Arley Koenig, Francis Koenig, Kim (Kim Ann) Koenig, and Orrin (Mary) Koenig. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Janice Sand and Mary Beth Helgeson; and his Helgeson brothers-in-law: Tom (Linda), Rich (Mary), and Stan (Mary Jane). He was predeceased by his parents and in-laws, his older sister Jeanne, and two younger sisters Judy and Betty and a younger brother Richard.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at Mission Ridge Chapel on the St. John’s campus with a luncheon afterwards. Interment will follow at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch or the charity of your choice.

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11/13/2025

Ernest "Ernie" Icopini

In Loving Memory of Ernest (Ernie) Lewis Icopini, 1931-2025

After ensuring another beet harvest was successfully completed, our beloved patriarch, Ernest (Ernie) Lewis Icopini, of Hysham, departed this world on November 6, 2025, at the age of 94 following a series of falls and medical complications.

Ernie was born in Billings, Montana on October 14, 1931, to Ernest and Anna (Bogunovich) Icopini and grew up in Big Horn, Montana with his younger sister, Marj. The son of Italian and Croatian immigrants, he began building his American Dream at an early age. At just five years old, he delivered the Billings Gazette by bicycle, keeping careful records of every subscription and payment. By age 12, he traded that bicycle for the family Studebaker wagon, becoming a “bus driver” by picking up local kids along Tullock Creek and driving them to school. Growing up during the Great Depression taught him thrift, resilience, and an unshakable work ethic that would shape his life.

After graduating from Custer High School in 1949, Ernie and his family moved to Hysham, where he and his dad leased a few hundred acres of farm land. This modest start would eventually grow into a large family farm. Farming wasn’t just his occupation; it was his calling. His happiest place on earth was in the seat of a tractor working the land he loved. When he first began sugar beet farming, beets were dug with a single row digger, and each beet had to be hand-topped and tossed into the truck. This fall, during his final beet harvest, he watched his farm’s new self-propelled beet harvester do it all and expressed how he wished he could have been riding in it.

Ernie received the High Ten Great Western Sugar Beet Grower award multiple times, an honor for the top producers in the region. Always forward-thinking, he embraced innovation. From installing sprinklers and adopting no-till/strip-farming methods to operating the first RTK GPS tractor in Montana, he stayed on the cutting edge of progressive farming practices. Yet he never forgot his roots: The first corn planter he ever used at the age of 10 was pulled by a team of horses and still sits in front of their farmhouse as a reminder of how far he (and farming) had come.

A successful farming operation of this size wouldn’t have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Marian (Kimball) Icopini. The two married on July 24, 1954, and enjoyed 69 years together before she passed away in 2024. They both loved children, and when they were planning to marry, Ernie told Marian that he wanted six kids. After their fourth was born, he said, “This isn’t so many; maybe we should have ten.” And they did. Ernie instilled his strong work ethic in his kids: As soon as they could hold a hoe (which he cut to size), they were out working in the fields.

Ernie believed in doing things the right way (i.e., his way) – whether it was planting crops, playing cards, or demonstrating how to vacuum or wash the table in straight rows “like planting a field.” He could be stern when it mattered, but behind that seriousness was a playful, good-humored spirit. From playing Pitch with family, hosting Poker games for friends, or beating the grandkids at Canasta, he was a tough competitor but always with a twinkle in his eye. With such a large family, things could get lively when everyone gathered, but he loved having all his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in the house together: The louder it was, the better his afternoon nap in the living room!

Beyond his farm and family, Ernie was a devoted Catholic and started every week by attending Sunday Mass. He also dedicated himself to his community. He served Treasure County as a County Commissioner for 18 years and was an active member of the Ditch Board for more than 40 years. He was instrumental in securing grants and funding for many projects that the community still benefits from today.

A dedicated family man and farmer, Ernie was a strong, steady presence in his family and community. His love of the land, his devotion to those he cared for, and his legacy of hard work and love will live on in all who knew him.

He is survived by his 10 children: Perry, Nancy, Lori (Terrance) Casey, Dana (Paul) Sievers, Brent (Brenda), Dale (Amber), Todd, Gary (Pat), Bart (Amber), and Dean; 25 grandchildren: Ryan (Jodi), Ginny (John) Layshock, Tiffany; Gina (Tom) Tarnacki, Jacole Douglas, Angela (Miles) Babcock, Mitch (Chelsea) Douglas; Erin (Sean) Leistritz, Donovan (Kate) Casey; Bridget (Andy) Merry, Jayme (Patrick) Nelson; Kaitlyn, Joe; Eric, Nick (Tara), Matt, step-granddaughter Taylor (Beau) Bromenshenk; Lewis, Tom; Harper, Morgan, Nolan, Kaleb; Shayna Welch, Sam, and Rose; and 31 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by Marian, his wife of 69 years; his parents; his sister, Marj Criswell; brother-in-law Bob Criswell; daughter-in-law, Barbara; granddaughter, Sara Casey; step-grandson, Shad Schaak; and great-granddaughter, Chezni.

The Rosary service will be Sunday, Nov. 16 at 5 p.m. at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary Chapel. Mass will be Monday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hysham.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Church, P.O. Box 226, Hysham, MT 59038 or to a charity of your choice.

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11/12/2025

Debra Diane Wilk

Debra Diane Wilk, 65, of Powell, Wyoming passed away unexpectedly on November 6, 2025 in Billings, Montana.

Deb was born on July 15th, 1960 in Billings, Montana to Darlene and Donald Gossett. She graduated from Powell High School in 1978 and went on to pursue her passion as a CNA, dedicating a good portion of her life to helping the elderly.

She married the love of her life Aaron Wilk in 1989, and together they had many adventures from Nascar races, scenic drives all over Wyoming and many concerts. She loved reading her romance novels, and taking in the beloved state she lived in.

Deb is survived by her husband of 36 years, Aaron; her son Alex (Lorena) Wilk of Billings, Montana; her only grandchild Kobie Wilk; her brother Dan (Sherry) Gossett of Columbus, Montana; her sister Deanna (Jeff) Paige of Lapine, Oregon; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of Deb’s life will be announced at a later date with details.

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11/06/2025

Leonard Ellis Staton

Leonard Ellis Staton, 87 of Billings Montana passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025 at Laurel Health and Rehab.

Len was born on October 7th, 1938, to Edwin Staton and LuElla Galloway in Rossman, North Carolina. Len served in both the US Army and the Air Force. His Hobbies included art (drawing), Hunting, and fishing.

Len is proceeded in death by his wife Jolene Staton and his son Mark Staton. He is survived by his daughter Andrea Schultz, brothers Cecil and Eugene Staton and sister Sandra Staton.

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11/06/2025

Jerald E. Berve

Jerald E. Berve was born in Williston, North Dakota on April 30, 1935 during a dust storm. He grew up on the farm, where he learned his strong work ethic. Three years after graduating high school in Alamo, ND, he decided he didn’t want to be a farmer. He went to Minot, ND Business College where he met June Nyreen from Portal, ND. They were married June 30, 1957 in Columbus, ND.

His career with Sherwin-Williams Paint Company began as credit manager in Minot, ND. After three years he was transferred to Austin, MN as store manager. Another three years and he was transferred to Billings, MT in 1964. He really liked our city and refused any more transfers. He worked his way up to district manager. He excelled in sales and received much recognition, awards, and trips that he and June took together. He retired after 38 years with Sherwin-Williams. He and June had taken several cruises, travels in their motor home, and spent 14 years as snowbirds in Arizona. In 2014 they moved to Mission Ridge on the St. John’s United campus.

Jerald was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church. He coached Little League baseball, volunteered for SCORE and Christikon Bible Camp. He was a member of the Elks and served on the St. John’s Board of Directors for four years. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, card games, and especially playing pool. A lifelong Christian, Jerry was fond of saying, “The Good Lord has blessed me all of my life."

He was blessed with four children; Jerilyn (Keith) Dukart, James (Julie Jensen) Berve, Jon Berve, Jeffrey (Amy Freitag) Berve; seven grandchildren, Brian Dukart, Jake (Megan Salo) Dukart, Melissa Dukart (Ben) Livesay, Stacie Berve (Colton) Tipton, Mike (Alicia Caddell) Berve, Tasia Berve, Kyler (Kimberli) Berve; thirteen great-grandchildren, Jamey Wood-Dukart, Aubree Dukart, Peyton and Griffin Tipton, Bryar and Luke Berve, Ember Berve, Owen, Kaden and Nolan Livesay, Lia, Rheya, and Ruth Berve.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Viola (Bilquist) Berve; his only sibling, Clarice Berve Anderson; and an infant son.

Jerald is survived by his wife of 68 years, June; his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and two nephews, Randall (Jennifer) Anderson of Maine, and Reid (and family) Anderson of Germany.

Visitation will be 2:00-4:00pm on Friday, November 14 at Michelotti Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Avenue, Billings. Funeral will be at 10:00am on Saturday, November 15 at Peace Lutheran Church, 1301 Avenue D, Billings. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. John’s United Spiritual Care Fund or Peace Lutheran Church Food Pantry.

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11/05/2025

Judie Rae Manuel

Judie Rae King Manuel

December 1, 1951 – November 3, 2025

Judie Rae King Manuel, 73, of Floresville, Texas, passed away on November 3, 2025, in Dallas, Texas with her family at her side. She was born on December 1, 1951, in Livingston, Montana, to Wayne and Joan King.

Judie’s younger years were spent traveling with her parents as they worked all over the country, living in places such as Pray, Montana; Tiber Dam, Montana; Sugar Land, Texas; Rapid City, South Dakota; and Sheridan, Wyoming, before finally settling in Billings, Montana. She graduated from Billings Senior High School and was very active in 4-H, where she proudly showed her prize Shorthorn cattle.

Judie spent most of her life in Montana, where she married her husband and love of her life, Walter Manuel, on June 3, 1972. Together they raised two sons, Brian and Greg. She loved her years on the ranch, where she took pride in the ranch and their cattle, and the life she built there with her family.

Judie would always proclaim that Winnett was her home and the place she loved the most. The group of friends Judie amassed all over this country, from her dogs to cattle organizations, as well as always having an open door to all her acquaintances—was immense. Her generosity was unmatched.

Judie was extremely proud of her three grandsons—Grady, Jhett, and Hazen Manuel—and was always excited to hear about their sporting events and how they were doing in school. She also had a deep love for her Australian Shepherd dogs and took extraordinary pride in the many awards they earned over the years.

Judie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Henry and Elsie King, and Thomas and Esther Skillman; her parents, Wayne and Joan King; her brother, Timothy King; Special Aunt Donna King; her father in-law Carroll Manuel and her soulmate and husband, Walter Manuel.

She is survived by her sons, Brian Manuel and Greg (Jason) Manuel; grandsons, Grady, Jhett, and Hazen; her brother, Mitch (Holly) King; sisters-in-law, Louise King and Betty Kuhry (Tony); brothers-in-law, Tom Manuel (Marcella) and Victor Manuel (Bonnie); her mother-in-law, Marval Manuel; Compadre Linda Palmer; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 15, 2025, at the Petroleum County Community Center in Winnett, Montana, followed by Graveside Services at the Winnett Cemetery with a light lunch provided after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Petroleum County Community Center. https://www.pcccwinnett.org/donate

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11/05/2025

Mavis Shotwell

Mavis Rae Freburg Shotwell

On October 24, 2025, the most loving, generous, kind, patient, and nurturing wife, mom, and grandma left this world to join her heavenly family on the same day as her father’s birthday and father and first mother’s anniversary.

Mavis was born to Ethel Curtis Freburg and Ernest Freburg on October 27, 1937. She tragically lost her mother Ethel at only two years of age. Ernest later met and married Ruth Hodges Freburg which provided Mavis the enormous blessing of a wonderful second mother. She grew up in the idyllic setting of the home nestled below the rimrocks in Winnett, Montana, where she helped with the family dairy, learned to care for many animals, and developed a strong work ethic. She was brought up and lived by the teachings of the United Methodist Church. After finishing high school in Winnett, Mavis completed nursing school in Billings and Bozeman, becoming a Registered Nurse working at Deaconess Hospital in Billings.

During nursing school, she was introduced to her roommate’s cousin, Bob Shotwell, who became the love of her life. They celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on October 8, 2025. Bob and Mavis raised their three kids in Billings, with Mavis setting aside her career to be a full-time mom. Later, she returned to her nursing vocation at Valley Nursing Home for 10 years, dedicating many extra hours to her work and residents there. She then continued her role of consummate caregiver by spending many, many hours caring for her 5 beloved grandchildren.

Mavis was a natural-born nurse. She never shined more brightly than when she was caring for someone who was ill. She always knew just what was needed to make her patient feel better, whether she was expertly and lovingly caring for her sick child, her hospital and nursing home patients, or her sister battling cancer.

Mavis also loved stitching, sewing clothes and making stuffed animals for her kids, flower gardening, reading, baking, and caring for countless rescued cats and dogs. Her cats, including her little sweetheart Miss Kitty, were by her side throughout her final days.

Mavis was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel Freburg, Ernest Freburg, and Ruth Freburg; sister, Nancy Freburg; and baby son, Mark Alan Shotwell. She is survived by her husband, Robert Shotwell; daughter, Melanie (Chris) Munson; son, David Shotwell; daughter, Laurie (Jason) Robinson (She always said her sons-in-law were just like sons.); grandkids Connor (Sally) Robinson, Aidan Robinson, Kyra Munson, Brennan Robinson (Kim Just), and Alyssa Munson (Doug Mowat); as well as many cherished feline and canine family members.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers (which the cats would likely just eat), please consider honoring Mavis’ generosity with a donation to a local animal rescue such as Billings Animal Rescue Kare, Shiloh United Methodist Church, or RiverStone Health Foundation whose hospice team provided wonderful support to our family.

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