Mildred Elizabeth (Kurk) Ward

Nineteen days shy of her 100th birthday Mildred Elizabeth (Kurk) Ward went home to be with her Heavenly Father on June 7.

She was born on her family homestead in Sedan, MT on June 26, 1920, to Arthur and Emma (Maddox) Kurk. Mildred was the middle of seven children. Her education started in a one room schoolhouse in Sedan. Then, her family moved to Bozeman where she graduated from Gallatin County High in 1938. Mildred met Jesse Ward; and they were married on August 7, 1942, in Virginia City, MT.

Mildred was known to many as Granny. She worked a variety of jobs from ranching to department store clerk to bus driver. Granny worked in the potatoes up until her kids made her retire in her late eighties. But the most rewarding job was being a mother and grandmother. Mildred and Jesse raised six children. She enjoyed gardening, embroidering, crocheting, and traveling. Granny was most happy when she was with her family whether it be camping, fishing, playing cards, or attending school activities. Her family always came first.

Mildred was preceded in death by her husband, daughter Arloa, great grandson, parents, and all her siblings. She is survived by her children Lee (Karen), Jim (Theo), Jay, Milly (Lyle), Jerry (Bonnie), 13 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will take place at a later date. The family wishes to thank Copper Ride Health and Frontier Hospice for the care of Granny. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the donor's choice.