Elaine Hensley, 86, of Toston passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 17, 2014. Elaine was diagnosed with lung cancer just a few weeks prior but was able to remain in her home of 60 years with the support of her family and friends.
Elaine was born October 29, 1927 to Chester and Myrtle Nelson in Tremonton, Utah. She grew up and attended schools there where she graduated from Bear River High School in 1946.
Elaine married Fred Taylor in 1947 and was widowed early in the marriage. Elaine later married Thomas H. Hensley on October 5, 1952 in Townsend. They were life-long farmers in the Toston area where they raised their five children. Elaine was active on the farm and in the community volunteering her time for various church, school and community organizations. She was an accomplished artist and seamstress and at her best when gathering with friends to sew and quilt. Elaine was known and loved for her amazing sense of humor, powerful opinion and the impression she left on all that knew her.
Her husband Thomas, brothers Eugene and Ross and only sister Verda preceded her in death. Survivors include her brother Dean of Whitehall, one son Howard of Toston, four daughters Roene Stewart of Argyle, TX, Velda & Randy Staley Welch of Redlands, CA, Diann and Michael Ferrat of Townsend and Dee Ellen and Chuck Toy of Omaha, NE. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
Visitation and viewing will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, July 19th, at Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 212 Broadway St., Townsend.
A casual memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 20th at the family ranch located at 320 Highway 437, Toston, MT at 2:00 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring stories, photos and any other memories to share. Burial will take place at the Radersburg Cemetery with a luncheon following back at the ranch.
Family prefers that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be given to the charity of their choice. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Elaine.
Service Schedule
Viewing
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday July 19, 2014
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
212 Broadway St.
Townsend, Montana 59644
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Sunday July 20, 2014
Elaine's homestead
320 Hwy 437
Toston, Montana 59643
Graveside Service
Immediately following funeral service
Sunday July 20, 2014
Radersburg Cemetery
Radersburg, Montana
Reception
Immediately following graveside service
Sunday July 20, 2014
At Elaine's ranch house
Toston, Montana
Service Schedule
Viewing
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday July 19, 2014
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
212 Broadway St.
Townsend, Montana 59644
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Sunday July 20, 2014
Elaine's homestead
320 Hwy 437
Toston, Montana 59643
Graveside Service
Immediately following funeral service
Sunday July 20, 2014
Radersburg Cemetery
Radersburg, Montana
Reception
Immediately following graveside service
Sunday July 20, 2014
At Elaine's ranch house
Toston, Montana
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Mary Ellen Schnur says
Roene, and family,
I always enjoyed your mother. It was fun to run into her in town now and then and chat a bit. She was surely devoted to all of you, and proud of you and your families. A life well lived…
Dave and Patty says
Our condolences, Velda and family. Glad we got to meet your mom years ago.
Richard Ragen says
Howard, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this time of loss. Although I never really got to know your mom, I’m sure she was a great lady, shown by example through a wonderful son.
Take Care,
Rich
JEFF HINCH says
Sorry to hear of your mother’s passing.
Beverly Hohn says
Velda, Diann, and families-
Just learned of your mother’s passing today from my Mom. Sorry to hear about your loss- I always enjoyed being at your house and the fun times we had with her.