Clarence (Bud) Otto Kolb, 90, of Hysham, died February 5, 2015, while residing at Billings Health and Rehabilitation. Bud was born June 9, 1924, to Otto and Clara Anna (Messerli) Kolb in Forsyth. He joined two sisters, Helen and Agnes, on the homestead in Hysham. They were later joined by Raymond, Lois, Leslie, and Robert.
After graduating from Hysham High School, Bud served during WWII by entering the U. S. Navy in 1944. He spent two years sailing the oceans before being honorably discharged and returning home to the farm. Recently discovered photographs he took during his service indicate he saw kamikaze pilots at one point.
In 1949 Bud married Ethel Anna Schmidt of Myers, Montana, and they made their home on the homestead. Together they raised four children: Ginni, Ron, Dennis, and Jake.
Bud spent his life farming in Treasure County with his brothers, Raymond and Leslie on the homestead. He was a 4-H leader and served on the board of Agricultural Soil and Conservation Service (ASCS). He was very proud to be a member of the Great Western Sugar Company’s High Ten beet growers.
In 2002, Bud was widowed, but was able to continue to live alone at home with the help of Kim Adams and the PALS program. In October he suffered a stroke and was unable to remain at home.
Bud is remembered as a hard worker, who loved tractor work. He was never happier than working the fields on his tractors. He wasn’t one to take short cuts and wasn’t afraid to spend time and energy for a good result. These work ethics were passed from his father to him and from him to his own children. Even after he became unable to work the farm, he didn’t let anything escape his attention. He spent hours touring the farm on his scooter. He used the scooter like an ATV and once in a while needed rescuing but that didn’t deter him! The boys often heard reports of crop growth, irrigation errors, cattle behavior and grazing conditions.
Clarence was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel; his sisters, Helen and Agnes; his brothers Leslie and Raymond. He is survived by his sister, Lois Oman of Pennsylvania; brother, Robert (Marty) of California; daughter Ginni of Colorado; sons: Ron (Gail) and Dennis (Wendy) of Hysham, MT and Jake (Julia) of Missoula, MT. He has 5 grandchildren: Michelle, Nicky (Leroy), A.J., Matt, and Bailey; 2 step-grandchildren: Jennifer (Michael) and Andru (Tasha); 4 great-grandchildren: Breanna, Bryce, Braelin, Brock; and 6 step-great-grandchildren: Eli, Jaxon, Shad, Shelbie, Jerzey, and Bentley. He also has numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Vivian and Merle for their special attention while Bud was in Billings; the staff at Billings Health and Rehabilitation; his doctor, Neal Sorensen; the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Vincent’s Healthcare; New Hope Rehabilitation; Yellowstone River of Care; Rocky Mountain Hospice; PALS of Rosebud Healthcare; the Hysham Ambulance crew; Treasure County nurse Deb French; the Treasure County Seniors; Cathy Redland, the mail-lady; and Kim Adams. Your kind and compassionate care of our father and grandfather, and of his family, is deeply appreciated.
Memorials may be made to the Community Presbyterian Church of Hysham, the Treasure County Ambulance, or the organization of your choice.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, February 16, 2015 at the Presbyterian Church in Hysham, MT.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolences may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
2:00 pm
Monday February 16, 2015
Hysham Presbyterian Church
306 Division St.
Hysham, MT 59038
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
3:00 PM
Monday February 16, 2015
Hysham Memorial Vale Cemetery
Cemetery Rd.
Hysham, MT 59038
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Susan Gibb says
As kids my mother Sue Gibb drove the five of us out to the Kolb Farm frequently in the late summer to pick vegetables from their wonderfully prolific vegetable garden ably assisted by Ethyl. Those times are a very strong memory from my childhood. Sincere condolences from my husband Ric Tieman and me to Bud’s children and their entire family. He was able to live a long life.
Dave and Gail Kimball says
It was with sadness that we learned of Bud’s passing. Gail and I send our condolences to the Kolb family knowing hat he will be very much missed. The Kolb family has been a pillar of the Hysham community, known for their hard work and success in farming. Bud fully exemplified that tradition. Our love to you all
Harold Hert says
Bud had been a long time friend god bless the families he will be missed!!!
Bob and Cathy Emmons says
Hysham has again lost yet another fine citizen. May your good memories help in this time of sorrow . A donation has been made in Bud’s memory to Heads Up Heart Strong, the organization established in Kenna s memory to help children hospitalized for long term care.
David & Casey Jones says
Our thoughts are prayers are with the Kolb family and the entire Hysham community. We know that Mr. Bud will be truly missed.
Leo & Marj Cunningham says
Great video. We just watched it with Grandma Betty. It sparked a lot of great memories for her. Hold on to your memories; they are so very precious. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marie Armstrong & Marcia Sperry says
Marcia & I have been on the telephone reminiscing over school days, bus rides and 4-H. I relayed what a great video you made. Your folks shared corn & apples with our folks. We were so proud to have Bud as our 4-H leader. A life well lived should be a comfort. The Bonine twins: Marie & Marcia
Gary & Ginger DeCock says
Thinking of your family on this cold winter day and know the Bud is looking down and glad to see the “Kolb boys” got the cows fed before the funeral
Gail Kolb says
Thank you everyone for your stories, memories, and support. We appreciate you!