Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary

05/18/2026

Sherry Milburn

Sherry passed away peacefully at Billings Clinic on Saturday, May 16, 2026, surrounded by family. Sherry struggled with many health challenges throughout her life. Most recently she fought a long three-year battle with cancer and as of January 2026, was deemed cancer free. Unfortunately, medications that treat one condition can sometimes reveal other underlying issues.

Sherry was born in Billings, Montana on April 15, 1947, to Bernice and Solly Zeiler. Sherry attended Billings schools and graduated from West High School in 1965. She was a biology major at Eastern Montana College graduating in 1968. Sherry met the love of her life, Mike Milburn, in the summer of 1963. They married on April 24, 1965, and from their union, two sons were born.

They had many adventures in their married life.

Mike moved to Kettle Falls, Washington for work in 1966, while Sherry was still in college. She commuted to see him for those two years while finishing her schooling and having their first son, Regan. She and Regan joined Mike in Kettle Falls after she graduated and they moved to Wibaux, Montana later in 1968. While in Wibaux she was a secretary at a metal fabricating company and a mom to Regan and in 1973 a mom to Jason as well. While in Wibaux, they got into antiquing, and she acquired and refinished many valuable pieces. They moved to Dillon in 1975 where Sherry began her career with the National Forest Service, starting as a cartographer and then field analyst. She worked for them 13 years while in Dillon. In 1988 they returned to Billings where she transferred to the Custer National Forest Service until retiring in 1997.

Sherry had many hobbies that included raising sheep for wool and making her own yarn to weave on a loom. Sherry was a talented artist and along with drawing and painting, she designed two of the homes they built themselves and lived in. She dabbled in photography, sculpting and painting, loved gardening and was an advocate of all kinds of cat rescue. She loved to read stories of fairies and witchcraft and was a collector of many things. After Mike and Sherry both retired, they became snowbirds and went to Casa Grande, Arizona each year after the holidays until spring when they returned to Billings. While in Casa Grande, Sherry learned the art of pour painting and brought back many beautiful canvases she had poured during their time there.

Sherry was preceded in death by her parents Bernice and Solly and niece Darcee Zeiler. Sherry is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Mike, son Regan (Valeri) Milburn, grandchildren Zachary and Arielle; son Jason (Toni) Milburn, grandchildren Lliana and Arwynn; brother Ron (Sue) Zeiler; three nieces and one nephew; close family friend Terry Weyer and her two cats she loved so much, Aries and Baloo.

May you now be at peace and reunite with your beloved fur baby Jaquari and your family members that have gone before you.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a Celebration of Life later this summer.

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05/18/2026

Roxie Lee McClintock

Roxie McClintock (Hopkins) went to heaven while peacefully in her home in Lockwood, Montana, nine days before her seventy-first birthday on May 14, 2026. She passed from complications from receiving breast cancer radiation and having COPD.

Roxie was born in Watertown, South Dakota, on May 23, 1955. Roxie moved to California as a teenager and then to BIllings for high school, where she met her best friends Joni, Cindy, and Becki. Roxie was known for her adventurous spirit. After high school, Roxie, her sister Sheri, and Becki moved to Anchorage, Alaska. Roxie first worked as a waitress at the popular Garden of Eatin’. Roxie later crewed on a fishing boat in Alaska, though she didn’t catch any fish. She then crewed as a cook on a sailboat in California, though she wasn’t much of a chef. After that when Roxie was planning to go to travel school in Florida to become a travel agent, Joni encouraged her to come back to Billings and work at Pierce Packing. She met Donald Sullivan while working there and later moved to California to care for him after he was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident.

Roxie met her husband and love of her life, Gary, in Billings while working at Pierce Packing in the early eighties. In 1986, Gary and Roxie moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, helping build many of its most iconic hotels and resorts. Working in construction, She humbly challenged the status quo and was often the only woman on the job site. She never shied away from hard work and outworked many of her peers.

In 2001, Gary and Roxie decided to retire from their work in Vegas and moved back to Billings to be closer to family and to help care for her ailing mother. Roxie was a matriarch to the Hopkins clan. She always provided a safe and loving space for her family to come together. Many of the family’s joyous memories during the holidays can be attributed to her generosity.

Roxie loved her niece, nephews, great-niece, and great-nephew. She enjoyed learning about their hobbies, successes, and adventures. Though she kept close tabs on them through Facebook, she often traveled across the country and the state to enjoy their company the good ol’ fashioned way–in person. Roxie was always up for doing anything with them but especially loved relaxing and talking. She was an exceptional aunt and great-aunt and could be counted on for anything, anytime.

Roxie loved her Black Gold–coffee–drinking it from dawn ‘til dusk. She reveled in the thrill of standing in sub-zero temperatures waiting for doors to open on Black Friday to pick out the perfect gifts for her loved ones and to catch a deal. Roxie loved music. Seeing Jimmy Buffet in concert was one of her favorite memories, and she was looking forward to seeing Alison Krauss this summer. She was loyal to her friends and loved them like family. Roxie had a green thumb and enjoyed caring for her plants, finding a special joy in spring. She was a little dangerous behind the wheel. She could reliably be found sneaking dogs a little ham or steak during family visits.

Roxie loved the ocean. Her greatest joy of all was visiting the ocean with her husband, walking sandy beaches and listening to waves crash. She often dreamed of going back to Kauai, Hawaii, and looked forward to making another trip.

Roxie’s love was remarkable. As her friends and family remember her legacy, the kindness and compassion with which she led her life inspires us today and in the future to lead with an open heart.

Roxie is survived by her husband (Gary McClintock), sister (Vicky Thorpe), brothers (Gary Hopkins, Jerry Hopkins), niece (Karlee Davenport), nephews (Jesse Thorpe, Taylor Caekaert), great-niece (Katie Davenport), great-nephew (Graham Thorpe), and mother in-law (Claire Leland), sisters in-law (Barb Prestrud and her daughter Lindsey) and (Gayle Brakke and her children Brian, Jason, David, Kirstin, Stephanie, Daniel). Along with numerous other friends and family, you know who you are. She was preceded in death by her father (Clyde Hopkins), mother (Mildred “Millie” Hopkins), sisters (Sheri Hopkins, Connie Caekaert), and her beloved cat (Miss Kitty).

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05/18/2026

Richard James Ruff

Richard (Dick) J. Ruff - born 2/28/36 (just missing leap year)…passed to his eternal home, on 5/14/26, and had accepted Christ Jesus as Lord & Savior while hospitalized.

To most he was known as Dick. His inner circle affectionately called him: Dickie, Pa, Pop, Papa, Dad, ggpa, or gramps.

He was an army vet., having served 12/07/54-11/16/57. Final rank being SP3. Received recognition as rifle marksman and good conduct award.

It’s hard to summarize the worth, character and love for a man, not only blessed with living 90+ years, but full years.

His most fulfilling part of his life after army discharge, was meeting the love of his life, Verna, a 7-month whirlwind romance which led to marriage on 10/24/1958. Their family expanded when they welcomed twins in 1961. After raising their family, they traveled around a bit, and eventually regularly traveled south for the winters for approximately 17 years.

His passion from a small boy was fishing, fishing and more fishing. That desire never waned. His father-in-law taught him hunting skills. Family life enabled him to pass on his fishing passion and outdoor skills in camping, snowmobiling, and hunting.

Despite having lived with certain health issues for most of his life, he was able to adapt and work past them. His dedication to his family was what drove him to continue his outdoor passions. He loved taking his grandchildren and great grandchildren boating and fishing.

In the last 9-10 years or so, he got involved with making some pretty amazing wood projects that he unselfishly made and gave to family and some friends - gifts from his heart that we will cherish for years to come.

His wit, stubbornness, smile, a big loving heart, dedication to family and desire for fishing, fishing, fishing, are what we loved most about him.

Irreplaceable man. Our Patriarch.

Those that pre-deceased him: Parents: Colonel Henry Ruff (1992), Clara G. (Gomer) (Ruff) Reichenberg (1968). His paternal grandparents, David Ruff (1961), Katherine (Stromberger) Ruff (1976). His wife, Verna M. (Barr) Ruff, 8/26/2017 (just before their 59th wedding anniversary), and a grandson, Nathan Ruff (2024).

Survivors include: Son Randy (Carrie) of Potomac Valley/Bonner, Daughter Nancy (Billings), sister-in-law, Dolly (Barr) Krug (Billings). Three Brothers: Gerald/Jerry (Kathy) of Billings, Mike (Tere) of S. Carolina, Dan Reichenberg, of Washington, and a sister, Karin (Barry) [Ruff] Gilliam. Also surviving: Grandchildren-Quinesha, Kevin, and Jacob, (6) great grandchildren, and (1) great great grandchild, and many cousins, neices and nephews.

We hope all that knew him, saw what we saw. Instead of flowers, donating to your favorite charity in his name would be appreciated. He had a heart for children, and supported St. Jude’s and Shriners Hospital.

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05/18/2026

Keith O. Hanson

Born to Carl and Mildred Hanson, Keith grew up with his siblings on a farm in rural Watertown, South Dakota. He attended St. Olaf College and eventually earned a Master of Divinity degree at Luther Seminary in St. Paul. Minnesota. During that time he worked in a variety of jobs to help pay for his education. Keith began his professional career serving a parish in Church's Ferry, North, Dakota. After additional pastoral training and education, he moved on to serve as a prison chaplain in Waukegan, IL. During the last 20 years of his ministry, he served as a pastor in several Lutheran and Methodist churches in rural South Dakota.

Keith loved talking about his faith, listening to classical music, as well as singing and acting. He encouraged his family to develop their skills and interest in the performing arts. He always supported his grandchildren in their various activities, attending sporting events and musical performances alike. Keith was an avid gardener, and was known to put his grandchildren to work, picking the abundance of tomatoes and other vegetables from his garden at harvest time.

He was preceded in death by his parents and oldest sister, Margaret "Peggy" Armstrong. Keith will be missed by those who survive him: his sons, Yurii (Kerry) Hanson of Billings, MT, Yosha (Suhail Cumerin) Hanson of Casper, Wyoming , and their mother, Mariann "Maia" Witthar of Bozeman, MT; grandchildren, Elijah, Ava and Etta Hanson of Billings, MT; as well as siblings, Kenneth (Linda) Hanson of East Lansing, MI, Shirley Gibson of Boise, ID, Richard (Pat) Hanson of Eden Prairie, MN, and Elaine Hysell of Madison, WI.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1108 24th Street West, Billings, with a reception to follow.

A livestream broadcast of the service is available for viewing here: Keith Hanson funeral livestream

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05/16/2026

05/15/2026

Patricia E. Fleck

Patricia Eva (Hancock) Fleck, 68, of Rio Rico, AZ passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at her sister's home in Billings, MT.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at American Lutheran Church in Billings. Burial will be at a later date.

Patty was born in Plentywood, MT on July 12, 1957 to Bryce E. and Doris (Boe) Hancock. She joined two brothers and a sister at home in Medicine Lake. She was baptized and confirmed at Medicine Lake Lutheran Church. Patty attended all 12 grades at Medicine Lake School graduating in 1975. She graduated from the University of Montana in 1979. Patty taught Home Economics in Medicine Lake, St Ignatius, Shelby and Fairfield. She also worked for a short while at Hart Albin in Billings.

On August 5, 1989 Patty and Doug Fleck were married in Couer d'Alene, ID. They made their home in Fort Shaw, MT until moving to Arizona in 2005. Doug passed away in 2014.

Patty lived over 40 years with progressive rheumatoid arthritis. Although she had several surgeries and eventually relied on a walker and later a power wheelchair, she didn't complain and was always concerned about the health and happiness of her family.

Patty had a wonderful flair for style, always wearing beautiful jewelry to accent her outfits. She enjoyed sewing, crafting and decorating her home with unique handcrafted treasures made by desert artists and antique glassware. She loved feeding hummingbirds and spotting the beautiful red cardinals in Arizona. Patty was an avid sports fan and faithfully followed her nieces and nephews sporting events via newspaper scores, online streaming and in person when she was able. She loved to follow all sports on tv, especially the Grizzlies of the University of Montana and the University of Arizona Wildcats. She was a member of Desert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley, AZ. Patty stayed in her home in Rio Rico with her beloved cat, Carmi, until failing health brought her back to Bev's home in Montana.

Patty is survived by her brothers, Bryce Jr(MarShele), Jay (Susan), her sister Beverly and several special nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two nephews, Blaine and Christopher, her in-laws, and two brothers-in-law, Keith and Robert.

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05/14/2026

Janette G. Rutledge

full obituary notice will be posted soon

05/14/2026

Mark Robert Erickson

Mark Robert Erickson, beloved husband, father and grandpa, joined his heavenly father on Friday, May 8, 2026. He was surrounded by his loving family when he lost his battle to chronic illness.

Mark was born in Austin Minnesota on July 31, 1954. He was the youngest of two children born to Robert and Mary Jane Erickson. Growing up he excelled and loved to play football and played for a local junior college. He had a warm personality with an incredible sense of humor that created memorable stories, lifelong friendships and so much laughter.

He met the love of his life, Betty, when he was a senior in high school over a slice of pizza. After five years of dating they were married on August 21, 1976 in Austin. During their second year of marriage, Mark was in a life-altering car accident that would leave him with continuous challenges. This experience created an unbreakable bond and endless devotion between the newlyweds.

When Mark met Betty, it was love at first sight. He always called her the “love of my life, my everything”. From their first Valentine’s Day, to the last, he would send her a dozen red roses. Things changed when the florist delivered the flowers a day late. From that point forward, Mark delivered the flowers himself to Betty at work. He would leave her with a strong embrace and tender kiss. He never missed an opportunity to tell her that she was the best thing that happened to him, and how he loved and appreciated her. There are no words to describe their unwavering love.

Mark worked for Hormel in Minnesota and Nebraska. During this time his first four daughters Katie, Karrie, Kristi and Kayla were born. A job opportunity relocated the family to Billings, Montana where his fifth daughter, KaCee, was born. Mark loved Montana and felt so lucky to raise his family in such a beautiful place.

With a drive to better himself and provide for his family he obtained his draftsman certificate. Mark worked as a Draftsman at an engineering firm before receiving his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Information Systems from Montana State University Billings. From there he became a Computer Technician for School District 2. He enjoyed traveling between schools, being around students, and working with educators. Mark strongly believed in the importance of education. He encouraged his wife and daughters to attend college, and they all attended MSU Billings with his unwavering support.

Mark was proud to be a “girl dad.” From braiding hair, if you can call it that, playing catch in the yard, instructing how to do a proper layup, to teaching how to drive a manual car; he enjoyed spending time with his girls. He took advantage of every opportunity to impart wisdom, encouraged his daughters to be independent, and taught them there were no boundaries to what they could achieve. He had a keen sense of understanding of his daughters and built a unique and personal relationship with each one. He missed Kristi terribly after her sudden passing in 2019. He shared stories and memories of her until his last day. We take comfort in knowing they are together.

He was pleased with the partners each of his daughters chose. Mark loved his sons-in-law, Don, Todd, Greg and Logan, as if they were his own.

He was a humble man, never boasting about his own achievements. He had a big heart and a willingness to share his blessings. Be it serving the lord, helping others or welcoming those around him. He took every opportunity to praise any new adventure, degree or accomplishment of his family. You could sense his warmth and compassion in his presence. Mark had a tenderness for animals, who like his wife, daughters and grandchildren, found safety and protection in him.

He enjoyed pheasant hunting with his German short-hair pointers, fly-tying and fishing with his family, and sharing his meticulously, hand-crafted walking sticks. He loved his music, finding comfort in the Beatles, Bob Seager, Jackson Brown, Bruce Springsteen and Phil Collins just to name a few. He was a history enthusiast with special interest in WWII.

His daughter’s fondest memories include listening to him make up songs while driving them to school, summer road trips to Minnesota, and the Christmas tradition of picking out the perfect perfume for his beautiful wife. It was a pleasure to know him, and a blessing to be loved by him.

He will be missed by those who survive him including, wife, Betty Erickson; and daughters, Katie (Don) Olson, Karrie (Todd) Owen, Kayla (Greg) Erickson Thompson, KaCee (Logan) Erickson Lohman; grandchildren, Clifford and Jett Olson, Adalynn and Carter Owen, Ava and Addison Thompson, and baby Lohman due in September; sister, Connie (Brian) Bonfig; and many brothers and sisters in-laws; numerous nieces and nephews; and several four-legged friends.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Kristi Ann Erickson; his mother and father; his in-laws, Ralph and Donna Ge**er; two nephews, Allen and Phil Clennon; brothers in-law, Bob Cummings and Randy Kvam; and many four-legged companions.

Celebration of life services will be held at 10:30 am at American Lutheran Church, 5 Lewis Avenue, Billings. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service, with burial to follow reception at Mountview Cemetery at 2:00 pm.

The service will be live-streamed, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:30 Mountain Time for those that are unable to attend. https://youtube.com/live/HnTDXtGG4AE?feature=share

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05/11/2026

Patrick Holland

Passed away on May 7, 2026. Born in Havre, Montana to Francis and Virginia Lee (Daigle) Holland, he served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam conflict, earning several medals and commendations. After his military service ended, he made his way to Joliet, Montana, where he owned and operated a construction company. He built his own home, and continued learning throughout his life. His interest in technology led him to creating various items with his 3-D printer, and growing vegetables with his hydroponic gardening system. Throughout his adulthood, he remained every hopeful for better mental health support for our nation’s veterans. He is survived by longtime friends and neighbors, Betty Hanson and Tim Schulz.

Interment with Marine Corps honors will take place at 12:00pm Thursday, May 14 at Yellowstone National Cemetery.

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05/08/2026

Jamie Lee Gaskins

Jamie Lee Gaskins, 64, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbus, Montana, on May 4, 2026.

Jamie was born on July 17, 1961, in Billings, Montana, to David Lee Pierce and Karen Rae Pierce (Branstetter). She was the oldest of three daughters, growing up alongside her sisters, Lisa and Susan.

She graduated from Columbus High School in 1980. She married Joel Gaskins on May 23, 1981, and together they had two children, Zeth and Stasha. They shared 15 years of marriage and raised their family with love and dedication. Jamie treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.

Jamie cherished some of the simple things in life. She often took peaceful drives to the river, where she watched wildlife and enjoyed the beauty of nature. She loved garden-fresh tomatoes and Mexican food, especially with a good pina colada or two. She found joy in reading countless books, and she enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with family and friends.

Her love for plants and flowers was lifelong. She enjoyed working in greenhouses and floral shops, where she found comfort and creativity. Jamie was also a talented artist, and many of her paintings hang proudly in the homes of friends and family.

Jamie was known for her straightforward bluntness, and you never had to guess what she was thinking. She was funny without trying, and beneath her rough-around-the-edges personality was a soft, kind-hearted, and genuinely sweet side that those close to her treasured.

Jamie was known for her humor and playful spirit. She loved to joke and was famous for stirring up harmless mischief. Her humor and spirit paired perfectly with the lifelong mischief she shared with her best friend, the late Barb Marker, with whom she created countless stories and memories.

Jamie is preceded in death by her parents, David and Karen Pierce; her sister, Susan Pierce; and her close friends, Barb Marker and Leslie Ziegler.

She is survived by her children, Zeth (Sherry) Gaskins of Yankton, South Dakota, and Stasha Gaskins (Jeremy Daudelin) of Billings, Montana; her sister, Lisa Pierce of Billings, Montana; her nieces, Sarah Pierce of Shepherd, Montana, and Saige V***a of Missoula, Montana; her grandchildren—Quincy,

Drace, Harper, Ella, Finley, Brynlee, and Jaxton—her grand-niece, Illianna; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Celebration of Life A service and reception to celebrate Jamie’s life will be held at Fireman’s Point, on June 27th, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, located at 38 Countryman Creek Rd, Columbus, MT 59019.

The family encourages you to bring your favorite memory, photo, or a heart-shaped rock to share at her celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to the Special K Ranch.

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05/07/2026

Grace E. Landon

Grace Ellen Landon (White) passed away peacefully with her daughter at her side. Born in Bearcreek and raised in Red Lodge, Grace married her childhood friend Edward Earl Landon. The couple moved to Billings and raised their family at their home on Miles Avenue, where she lived for 70 years. Grace worked as a cosmetologist for many years, eventually owning her own salon.

Grace, while spirited and strong, also personified her name. She was kind and patient, was a hard worker, and loved her grandkids above all else. In their retirement, she and Ed were happy to travel to a variety of destinations, always looking for a new road trip adventure.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Oleta; her son, Robert “Bobby” Sr; grandsons, Bobby Jr. and Berk; siblings, Cora Whorley, Robeena Loughney, Bob, Jim, Bill White, Beth Mehring; son-in-law, Harold Zolman.

She will be missed by those who survive her: her children, Renee Zolman, Jack (Cyndie) Landon, Kathy (Pat) Breshears; grandchildren, Andy (Amy) Landon, Jennifer (Jay) Taylor, Daniel (Brittani) Zolman, Christina (Andrew) Delgado, Sarah (Jake) Cromwell, Adam (Courtney), Shawn (Sienna)Breshears; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, Jusitn, Derek, Payton, Logan, Cora Grace, Austin, MacKenzie, Chase, Caleb, Kayla, Mason, London, and baby Kelso due in June.

Grace’s family will gather later this summer for a celebration of her life and interment at the Joliet Cemetery.

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