Elton G. Helland, 91, of Miles City passed away on Thursday, May 10, 2012 at the Holy Rosary Hospital in Miles City.
Elton was born on March 9, 1921 in Maudlin, Montana to Gus Helland and Rose Pettersen Helland. His early years were spent herding sheep with his father and working on the family homestead near Angela. In the late 1930’s, he worked as a ranch hand for local ranches.
Elton served in the Army during the occupation of Germany in WWII. He entered the service on July 14, 1944 and was honorably discharged on July 30, 1946. After the war, he returned to the Miles City area. He helped build the VA facility and later farmed with his parents. He lived on his farm up until the time of his death.
Elton enjoyed owning and shooting a good firearm and sharing his knowledge of guns and reloading ammunition with his nephews. He appreciated visitors and enjoyed sharing stories with them.
Elton is survived by two brothers: Harold (Charlene) and Wayne (Bette Lou); a sister, Peggy (Jerry) Wall, a sister-in-law Dorothy Helland; as well as several nephews and nieces. Preceding him in death were his parents, a sister, Mildred Bois and her husband, Ike; and brothers, Lawrence, Cliff and Roy.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 14, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery with full military honors provided by VFW Post 1579. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be made to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Shannon Holmen says
Dear Hellands,
So sorry to hear about Elton. I always got a kick out of listening to him. He was a character, glad you have good memories of him. My prayers, Shannon