Once Upon A Time, on August 2nd 1947 Robert and Gail Livingston drove to the Hardin Hospital and gave birth to a beautiful blue eyed baby girl whom they named Bonnie Irene Livingston. She went home to her siblings, the oldest being Robert Livingston, who they called “Jr,“ another brother Phillip, a sister, Laura, that they called “ Babe, “ and then our mom of course. Years later she got a baby sister named Ruthie.
Bonnie would talk often of growing up living at a sawmill and loving the smell of the sawdust. She would also remember her mother Gail ringing the big bell that would call everyone to the HUGE table where they would eat with workers and family. She said her mother would make the best “Fried Chicken” and the prayers were always good too.
Bonnie’s Father, Robert, started the Montana Rescue Mission in Billings, Mt. She would talk about how fun it was, not scary, just fun because she met so many people. She could see what an impact her father, and with a lot of help from God, could just make or break the people off of the streets. It was at the Rescue Mission that she met her best friend, Dianna. She would tell stories of them running around Billings and Lame Deer, and also running in and out of the “Livingston Café,” which is known today as the Chicken Coop. She would tell stories of how their beds were made out of crates. Bonnie and Dianna had been friends since they were 6 yrs old and “HAD NEVER HAD ONE FIGHT.” She was always proud of that, till the day she passed they had continued to be best friends. She would talk about all her memories of Kirby. One such story was of her and her friends always pilling into an “Old Cadillac” with the top sawed off, while cruising around with the proud words “Kirby Hell Kats” painted on the side.
She moved to Los Angeles where she was “so dam cool.” While there, she and another best friend, Aunty Patsy, hung with “The Mamas and The Pappa’s, Redd Foxx and was invited to all the Wolf Man Jack Parties.” She would also play cards dressed to kill on Sunset Blvd.
Bonnie married and had two beautiful daughters Joanna Micheal Ysabal and Rebecca Ruth Ysabal. She would tell about how she always wanted dark babies with big brown eyes and got just that and more. Bonnie later divorced the girls “Daddy,” and if it was not for her best friend Aunty Patsy she would have never made her way back HOME to Lame Deer.
Bonnie wanted a different life for her daughters at the time, Joanna and Becky, so she enrolled in College, doing it alone and overcoming such major obstacles. To this day we all have no clue how she did it.
Bonnie met her soul mate Jim Pipe in college and married March 6th 1980. Jim had an older daughter named Paulette Pipe from a previous marriage, while Bonnie had Joanna and Becky from her previous marriage. They both took each other’s kids as their own. Bonnie and Jim had their first daughter together, and named her Jennifer Sue Pipe. Two years following, they had their last daughter, the “baby” of the family and named her Misty Dawn Pipe. They did a great job the whole 7 years that they were together, always having a happy home with no drugs or alcohol allowed. It was all about AA from that time on.
Bonnie said the day our dad passed half of her passed right along with him.
Bonnie lived in a lot of places since then but always came “home” to Lame Deer where she felt so comfortable and honored to be Cheyenne. She was a direct descendant of Humpback Women, a survivor of the Ft. Robinson Break Out. While living here and there she has met, inspired, comforted, changed, saved and impacted so many lives. Everyone has their own special memories of our mom, hold on to them, we sure will with ours. Throughout this story there is so many stories left out of family and friends that were standing right by her side through hard times and good times.
While she was in California for her back surgery, her niece Sandy Paine took THE BEST care of her and all the family that was out there at the time. Words cannot describe our gratitude, Thank You! The Livingston family: Bob and Julie and your whole gang, we have some good stories. Jim Dick you have been there always and you know how we feel about you. Clara Harris, you two were sisters, she is still watching Dancing With the Stars with you. The love you two had is still there. Kim Macnamara, every time she got an envelope in the mail she would say, “I bet it’s from My Kim.” Betty Rodgers, another friend of over 40 years, there are so many good memories with each other and our kids. Isadore, she said, “God, I hope I go before Isadore because I can’t imagine life without him.” Philomena (Felix) Whiteman, you will always be in Bonnie’s heart as her sister. Mamma Jill Plumage, you guided our dad and mom so much, thank you. Josaphine Fire Crow, when she would go back to that good place, there you always were, “you’re such a good person,” she would say. “Willie Rowland,” she said, “he has my vote.” Jay Fraiser, she loved the good role model you are for your grandkids.
Bonnie loved all of her grandchildren: Colter Grey Hawk, Cody Grey Hawk, Natasha Larose, Kailei Perry, Tia, Tai, and Handosme Russell, Lacei Bixby, David Bixby, Mikey Putman, Brijen Small, Mabel Small, Jimmi Small, Theodore Small, Sahiyela Wi Mesteth, Anpo Wicahpi Hoksila Mesteth; She took a lot of kids as her grandchildren: Jasmine Cruz, Robbie, Rose, Kate, Mary, and Elizabeth Livingston, Katelynn and Willie Rowland, Dre, Dillo and Sixxx, Panda Bear and Hannah Martinez, Kirby, Tucker, Hooray and Ransome Simpson, Hooray was her god child, Apple Laroach, Nation, Kassidy and PJ Ryan, and Oscar Paine: She also took some as her own children: Manuel Almanza, Jim Martinez, Keenan Jefferson, Cindy Yellow Eyes, Derek Big Man, Eva Kraft , Tiara Cuellar, and Jaren Stenerson.
Bonnie Pipe passed away peacefully with her three younger daughters by her side.
She was surrounded by friends and family the whole time being home for end of life care. With her grandchildren running and laughing throughout the house, it made her feel more “normal,” she would say.
We would like to give a special thanks to the Nurses who helped care for our mom in her end days: Amber, Martha, Deleene, Jackie, Johnathan, Dr. Begay and Tarra Salley.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Jim Pipe; brother Phillip Livingston; baby sister Ruthie Davie; and Blayne Paine.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 pm
Sunday January 11, 2015
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave.
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Monday January 12, 2015
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 pm
Sunday January 11, 2015
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave.
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
11:00 am
Monday January 12, 2015
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
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Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Our love and sincere sympathy to all of Bonnies family,
I was so saddened to hear about Bonnie. She was a beautiful person—-She was a good friend from my hairdressing days in Wolfpoint–and than reacquainted again when I moved to Lame Deer. May your wonderful memories bring you comfort and knowing that we will see our loved ones again. I am so sorry, You will be remembered in our prayers. Hugs to all of you.
Mary and Jolyn Dillon
James D. Jr. & Ann King says
Our deepest condolences to Bonnie’s family. She was such a radiant woman! Prayers for comfort……
William E. Rowland says
I first met Bonnie in 2005, I went to the recovery center looking for help with my addictions Bonnie showed me there was a better life out there. She also helped out countless other people in her life as a councilor. …my friend will be missed dearly not only by me and her family but by all the countless people she has helped over the years. …REST IN PEACE. BONNIE PIPE. ..LOVE YOU FROM ME AND MY FAMILY!
Loretta Stewart Thomas says
Bonnie was such a beautiful person inside and out. Always showed her interest and love. Have known her Eastern Montana college days when Jim attended classes there. Sure enjoyed seeing her. Extended my sincere sympathy to her family. Praying that God will comfort and hive you strength in the coming days.
SuEllen ShotGunn says
Bonnie was a one of a kind person who you just loved to be around. She made you feel loved & always had good advise no matter the situation.
She gave me the strength to go on when all I wanted to do was give up.
Prayers to her beautiful family for comfort & strength.
I have always loved and appreciated you Bonnie Pipe & family. God be with you ’till we meet again!
Leroy and Sheila Not Afraid says
One of the very best! Her contributions to recovery will not soon be forgotten! She believed in taking action and she believed in Jesus!
Tell my dad and daughter I said hello!
Gods speed Bonnie
Dean n Carrie Small says
Our sincere condolences to the family of Bonnie Pipe.
Julie and Bob Livingston says
You will live in our hearts forever Bonnie and we will miss you forever Lady.
Ride on the wind, sweet woman. You deserve the rest. Bob and Julie Livingston and family. Billings, Montana
Porter & Ann Knows His Gun says
Prayers, (((Hugs))) & Condolences to Bonnie’s family. Misty & Jenny, know your sweet mom is no longer suffering & she’s at peace. Bonnie was an awesome, gentle & kindest Lady ever! R.I.P. Mrs Bonnie Pipe, thoughts of you from my family to yours
Theda Foote says
Rest in peace Bonnie ,you will always be in my heart,my condolences go out to all of your immediate family, you will always be remembered by me and my family, much love goes out to your daughters and grandchildren, I’ll keep them in my prayers. You can give my Jimmy a great big hug and kiss for me.
Michele Eaglefeathers says
I first met Bonnie when I worked for the Elderly program…very nice lady with a beautiful smile….my condolences to her family…..
Ron & Peggy Demaray, Phoenix AZ says
Our prayers are with all the family and everyone whose life had been touched by my Aunt Bonnie (Livingston) Pipe. She was a Grandmother, a mom, a wife, an Aunt, a cousin, a sister, a counselor and a dear friend to each of us. She is in the arms of her heavenly Father, rejoicing with all her relations who have been anticipating her Homecoming! We love you and will miss you for a very long time.
Robin & Lynda Demaray says
A lovely Aunt taken too soon. Prayers for her children and grandchildren who we know she treasured each and every day. She always had a smile and a hug for you coming and going. She will be missed, but only until we meet again. Love you Aunt Bonnie!!
Shane Schenderline says
My condolences!
Dawn Rowland Benjamin Hernandez says
Our condolences, rest in peace Bonnie Pipe, our prayers to her family!
Wanda Threefingers says
My dear friend Misty i offer my condolences to U and the rest of the family. Ur mother is no longer suffering N has gone on to claim her place in Heaven. May the Lord give u peace N strength during this difficult time. A very strong, loving, caring woman has gone on but know that she will always be in ur heart. Cherish the memories that u have of her N of the ones U made. Much love and respect.
JOHN & JULIE MALDONADO AND FAMILY says
To Bonnie’s family, Our love and prayers to you during this difficult time. She will be missed. Her smile her gentle voice. All the memories we have to share with each other is the best gift anyone can ask for. I love you girls with all my heart. Condolences and warm comforting prayers to you all.
Esther Littlewolf says
Misty and Jenny, I am so sorry for your loss of your momma! My condolences to all of your momma’s loved ones! Ma’heo hold you and guide you! Your mom lived life to fullest, I am so glad I got to know her these last two years. Special prayers of comfort for you both!
Dennis and Bonnie Bear Don't Walk says
Our condolences to Bonnie’s family. She was a one-derful woman! Always had a smile and a hello….God be with you as you grieve your loss.
Jack & Kim Knobloch says
Jenny, Misty and family,
Your mother was always to kind and caring to all she will be greatly missed by all! Our prayers and condolences to all of you and your families.
Michael, Kristi and Girls says
To the Family, Bonnie’s wisdom and great humor will be missed,
We will keep you all in our Prayers.
Bonnie has a great family that she was very proud of so hang in there.
Jessica Bixby says
Misty, Jennifer, and family..I am so sad about your mother my cousins I hope the best for you girls in your time of grief. Keep your heads up, I am here for you, I can’t imagine how it is and how it’s going to be but keep moving forward. Bonnie treated me with love and kindness and I will keep that with me, we all will. Love you, Jessica, Justine and Letha 🙂
Francis & Georgette Boyer says
To Bonnie’s family, pary for your comfort & strenght during this most difficult time.
We were blessed to know Jim & Bonnie in Billings back in the 70’s, shes a gentle, caring
and giving lady with grace and a warm smile, she will most definatly be missed by all.
Take Care & God bless, Francis & Georgette Boyer, Wagner, SD
Pam Kania says
I was very saddened to hear of Bonnie’s illness and death. She was a wonderful and caring person who was there for me through a very difficult time in my life. I know that she was honest, caring and verywise. Please be assured of my prayers, my love and manygood thoughts for each of you who are so sorrowful in your grief.
Sincerely, Pam
Georgia Ann Burns says
My deepest condolences to Bonnie’s girls and family. I am sorry I never made it over to see her. She is dancing in Heaven with her beloved, Jim. No more pain…Bonnie you were a ray of sunshine and a song to my heart. Thank you for your love and hugs!! Later my friend…See you Later!!!
Sandie and Gary Lippy says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. we both have many great memories with Bonnie and Jim in our AA journeys, meetings, the meetings after the meetings, and especially the one at the International AA Convention in Montreal, Canada in 1985. Gary and I were in a long line to get a cup of coffee at the convention. I turned around to look at the line behind me and who should be in line right behind us but Bonnie and Jim. They didn’t know we were going to the convention and they decided at the last minute to go and drove all the way there in a very small car with their girls. We had a wonderful time together at that convention. Bonnie was an example of how a person could enjoy and have fun in AA. She will be missed!
Keith and Debby Beartusk says
My memories of Bonnie go way back to the good old days in Lame Deer. We will miss that beautiful smile and charming personality. To the family, our good thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sandy Paine says
My sweet Bonnie, safe travels. May your heart and spirit be free and I hope you danced with Jim. Give Blayne a hug for me….until we meet again.
Malinda & Family says
Jenny & Misty I am very sorry for the loss of your mother, my deepest condolences to your families. Your mother was a very good person to I and my Kids always treated us with kindness, We will dearly miss her.
Dolly Washington says
My thoughts and prayers go to Bonnie’s family, Jenny & Misty your mom was such a beautiful person, she’s with Maheo now, RIP Bonnie.
Jennifer says
She will be forever greatly missed. My heart is saddened, love all you girls and prayers <3
Tara Salley says
Prayers to your whole family in this time…Bonnie was a true inspiration and source of support for so many people…I will never forget her!! I was very blessed to know her and feel very honored to have been given the opportunity to care for her in her final days…God bless you!!
Cj & Tonya says
My prayers are with all of Bonnie’s family. It is so very hard to loose someone who has meant so much to so many. On our journey to Lame Deer she sent us home with a gift (a beautiful plate)with the Lord’s Prayer. Not knowing that it would be the last time we saw her face to face. In each home we have lived in a have displayed it in our living room for all to see. I have shared our memory of when we got that plate and about the wonderful mother, grandmother, and woman who gave it to us. I will cherish it forever & ever, thank you Bonnie. R.I.P you beautiful woman you. She made us feel like family and we will never forget her and always hold her deep in our hearts each & everyday.
Jim and Rita Alderman says
Our hearts and prayers go out to all my cousins in dealing with this great loss, and to God in thanks for bringing this wonderful woman into this world for the positive effects she had on so many people. There has been so much loss in our family these last few years that it seems the mourning has not ceased, only been added to. It was pretty tough talking through the tears to Edna and dealing with the knowledge that our generation of family members is so quickly disappearing. We will see each other again dear cousin, Love Never Dies. Love To You All, Jim&Rita
Merrilee Red Robe says
My Prayers, my thoughts are with you, Bonnie was a beautiful person, I will always remember her. Jenny, Misty know that when I pray, when I cry for my Shaylee Rae, I will be praying for you also. Maus