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

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

Lenard Ellis Staton, 87 of Billings Montana passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025at 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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11/04/2025

Norine Brittingham

Norine O’Connor Brittingham passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, after enjoying a full and beautiful life of 94 years.

Born on August 24, 1931, in Rimini, Montana, to Ida and James O’Connor, Norine grew up in Helena, where she graduated from Helena High School in 1949. Her younger brother Jim kept her on her toes, and the two shared a lifelong bond filled with laughter and stories. Jim had a special talent for teasing his sister and “getting her Irish up.” True to her Irish roots, Norine loved a good Guinness with her pizza and a touch of Jameson in her toddy. Her sister-in-law Barb became a close friend and confidant, and Norine was a devoted aunt to Barb and Jim’s sons, Shaun and Kelly O’Connor.

Norine was immensely proud of her children and delighted in their adventures and travels: Debbie Johnson (Jerry), Sherrie Ringstad (Glenn), Pete Brittingham (Linda), Mary Olson (Greg) and Lisa Brittingham (Mose Chun). Norine loved receiving postcards and living vicariously through their stories.

Sherrie and Pete blessed her with four grandchildren: Michele Ringstad (Jacob Knabe), Tina Devrin (Toni Devrin), Kate Brittingham (Austin Wallace), and John Connor Brittingham. She also “adopted” three special grandchildren of the heart — Bryant, Gibby, and Forrest Mawyer — whom she loved as her own.

After their start in Helena, the family moved to Billings and life on Avenue B brought Norine a cherished friendship with Marilyn Pearson and the Pearson family. A few years later, when the family moved to Howard Avenue, she gained another lifelong friend in Loretta Frank. Norine treasured these relationships and the sense of community they brought her family.

In the early 1980s, Norine moved to a condo at Sheraton Arms to be closer to work. She managed the X-ray department for several dentists at Plaza West Dental, where she was known as one of the finest dental X-ray technicians in Montana. She had a gift for making even the most nervous patients feel at ease. During these years, she formed deep friendships with her neighbors Bonnie and Len Richards, and with many coworkers — especially Dr. David Mawyer and his wife, Robbie, who became dear friends.

After her children moved away from Billings, Norine’s wonderful network of friends helped her live independently for many years. Len faithfully checked in on her daily, delivering mail and running errands. Loretta shared coffee and conversation with her several times a week, while Agnes Hernandez provided invaluable support that allowed Norine to maintain her independence.

In August 2023, Norine moved to MorningStar, where — in a delightful twist of fate — her dear friend Marilyn lived just down the hall. The two enjoyed many hours together, and Norine quickly made new friends in her community. She became especially close with Marilyn’s children, Paula and Ross Corson, who continued to visit her faithfully. Robbie Mawyer and Paula Corson became like daughters to her, bringing comfort and joy in her later years.

In March 2025, Norine moved to TenderNest, where her friend Bonnie also resided. The caring staff there provided her with comfort and compassion during her final months, and Len continued his thoughtful visits often bringing flowers to brighten her day.

A wonderful cook, Norine’s recipes were family treasures. Her famous applesauce cake was a beloved Christmas tradition, eagerly awaited by all. She passed down her love of cooking to her children and took pride in preparing and sharing great meals.

With 94 years of love, laughter, and friendship, Norine leaves behind countless cherished memories and many hearts that will miss her deeply. Her warmth, wit, and Irish spirit will continue to live on in all who knew her.

A celebration of Norine’s life will be held on Friday, November 7th at 1:00 p.m. at Michelotti-Sawyers, 1001 Alderson Avenue.

If you would like to honor Norine’s memory, please consider a donation to Billings Christian School, 1515 Shiloh Road, Billings MT 59106, or a charity of your choice. https://billingschristian.org/giving/

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10/29/2025

Lucille Habel

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10/24/2025

Sam Haynes

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Charles Samuel Haynes who passed away peacefully in his home on October 2, 2025, at the age of 84.

Sam was born and raised with his two sisters, Freda and Isabel, in Gillette, Wyoming. After graduating High School, he went on to earn his business degree. He was married to Sandy (Nichols) for 23 years; they had two children and called Cody, Wyoming home until 1983. He worked for Husky Oil Company in Cody until it was sold. The family moved to Billings, Montana where he dedicated 40 years to a successful career with Marketing Specialties, Inc.

Sam was a man of many talents – he could fix anything and was always the first to jump in and lend a hand with projects. He loved camping under Montana skies, exploring trails on his 4-wheeler, and sharing laughter with those he loved most. His hands built, repaired and created, but his heart gave even more – kindness, strength, and unwavering support.

Sam leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity that will live on in the lives of his family and friends.

Sam is survived by his children, Kristi Lebruska and Greg (Sheri´) Haynes; grandchildren, Christopher and Taylor Haynes; and great-grandchildren, Trudence Martin and Zion Massey all of Billings, MT. He also leaves behind his sister, Isabel Turner of Garland, WY; two nieces, two nephews, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.

A service to honor Sam will be held at Faith Chapel on Friday, November 14, at 11:00 a.m. The family will host a luncheon immediately following the service and welcome anyone who would like to stay and share memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to RiverStone Hospice in his memory. https://riverstonehealth.org/riverstone-health-foundation/support-our-work/

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10/22/2025

Kathleen Curlee

Kathleen Louise “Kate” Curlee (née Brunnemer) passed away on October 19, 2025, in Billings, Montana, at the age of 77. Born on March 8, 1948, in New York City, New York, Kathleen lived a life marked by creativity, resilience, and a deep-rooted faith.

Raised in a home that blended Swedish and Italian Baptist traditions, Kathy grew up with the Word of God in her heart. She attended many Billy Graham services with her father, who served as an usher at those events. Music was also a meaningful part of her spiritual life—years later, she would sing alongside her sister at a reunion held in Carnegie Hall.

Kathy graduated from Herricks High School on Long Island, New York. Though she was offered admission to Cornell University, she chose instead to attend Denver University. It was during this chapter of her life that she met Hewitt Curlee of Nebraska. After their marriage, the couple considered settling in Grand Junction, Colorado, but ultimately decided to make their home in Montana.

In Montana, Kathy and Curlee purchased 40 acres of land that included a one-room cabin. With determination and vision, they designed and built a three-story home complete with balconies and a garage. They added a chicken coop, pig pen, and cultivated an expansive garden. Kathy worked at Arby’s in Billings and commuted 20 miles each day to return to the home they had lovingly created. Their life together was filled with road trips as Curlee worked as an insurance adjuster.

After Curlee’s passing, Kathy moved into Billings where she began dating Mike Siemion. Mike asked Kathy to design blueprints for a house he planned to build. She poured her heart into the project, and after Mike’s death, the home sold for a high price—a testament to her thoughtful design.

Kathy later became involved with Mary Kay Cosmetics. She found joy in helping women feel beautiful and confident through her work with the company.

Kathleen is survived by her sister Judy and brother-in-law Jim, as well as her brother Fred. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Mable Brunnemer. She is also survived by Kurt and Elyse Brunnemer, David and Shannon Carlson, and Fred and Regina Carlson. And great nieces and nephews: Valerie, Meghan, Kevin, Vickie, Connor, Kyra, Andrew, Gavin, and Colin.

Kathy often reflected on how she wished she had attended Farmingdale Agricultural Institute—an indication of her enduring love for the land and rural life. Her journey from New York City to the wide-open spaces of Montana was one of transformation, faith, and quiet strength.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

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10/22/2025

Lenice Byrd

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10/22/2025

Walter E. Pipkin

Walter Edward Pipkin, 68, of Billings, MT was born on February 16, 1957 and died at home on the morning of Sunday, October 19, 2025. Walt was born and raised in Monticello, Utah. In 1977, he met Jamie Collard, who became his wife on October 10, 1980. During their 45-year marriage they welcomed 5 children, 7 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Walt worked as a miner all of his career and retired from Stillwater Mine in 2019. In his spare time, Walt enjoyed tinkering in his garage, hunting with his sons, and just being outside. He was a devoted family man and an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his family immensely and would do anything for them. He had a generous caring personality and will be deeply missed. Walt is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Thelma; stepmother, Billie; his sons, Michael Trek and Logan Tye. He is survived by his wife, Jamie; children, Paul Tanner (Natalie), Kori (Matt) Caudill, and Trevor (Kendra); his grandchildren, Trenton (Taylor), Tagen Alan (Marley), Brooklyn and London Caudill, Ilianna Pipkin, and Porter and Paizley; great-granddaughter, Sadie Mae.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in Billings, followed by burial at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

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