Erna Rath Schwindt, age 96, of Miles City, Montana left this world to meet her Lord and Savior, May 25, 2014. She was born December 25, 1917, in Tuttle, North Dakota, to Germans from Russia immigrants John H. and Magdalena (Vollmer) Rath.
She was preceded in death by her husband Samuel, seven brothers, two sisters, a daughter, son-in-law, a grandson, three brother-in-laws, eight sister-in-laws, and many nieces and nephews. She is survived by her children, Twila Swenson Posey of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Samuel Schwindt of Billings, Montana, Marlys (Ron) Burkett of Ruidoso, New Mexico, nine grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, five great, great grandchildren and numerous loving nieces and nephews. A sister-in-law, Magdalena Ritter Schwindt Finck, lives in Elgin, North Dakota.
Erna was raised on a farm and attended grade school in Tuttle, North Dakota. She moved to Jordan, Montana shortly after her marriage to Samuel Schwindt on July 31, 1937. She assisted Sam with farm chores and milked four cows. She sold cream to The Miles City Creamery and baked goods for Jordan residents. She especially enjoyed making German dishes. Easter time was a special celebration for her. She would bake sweet breads and kuchen for her family, friends, and grandchildren. After her children were raised she cleaned, and painted houses in the Jordan area with her cousin, and beloved friend, Martha Vollmer Hinther. She enjoyed playing the accordion, piano, singing in the church choir, and dancing. She was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran church in Jordan until her move to Miles City in 2007.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday May 28, 2014
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
Miles City, MT
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday May 29, 2014
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
Jordan , MT
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday May 28, 2014
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
Miles City, MT
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday May 29, 2014
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
Jordan , MT
Carol Rath Raschkow says
To The family of my Dear Aunt Erna,,
May God be with you during this time of sorrow. Aunt Erna was one of the most wonderful ladies in the world and I am going to miss her terribly, but for her I am glad her suffering has ended and she is now with Uncle Sam and all of our Loved Ones who have gone on before her. She was an amazing Christian Lady..who worked very hard all of her life . She loved kids and was wonderful to me all of my life and also to my kids who also love her dearly. She recently talked to me and mentioned how none of her siblings would be at her funeral, but was comforted and smiled when I told her that if what she had taught me about Jesus all my life was true, she would be with them in heaven. I am going to miss her but will never forget her and what a huge part of my life she has been. She always made me feel loved and special… God Bless her…..Carol Ann
Diane (Rath) Hewett says
To all of Aunt Erna’s family,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this note to all of you as your sweet mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, or whatever she was to you has left this physical world. Aunt Erna was such a gift from God. I will always remember her sweet smile and loving kind spirit. Growing up in Jordan, whenever we stopped at Aunt Erna and Uncle Sam’s house, we were always offered the best goodies, cookies, cake, Kuchen, you name it. She was such a good baker and cook. I always looked forward to this and also her Easter Birds (bread) and Kuchen at Easter. I was recently reminiscing with her about this. I actually took her some prune kucken for Easter and she was so cute. She did not eat a bite of her lunch but dug right into the kuchen and ate every bite of what I had brought. I wished I had taken her more than I had but the previous visit she said “just bring me a little piece.” I think she told me she would make 24 kuchen just for her family at Easter every year. I carry on this tradition making kuchen for my family each year and even the mention that I might not make it this year is met with disappointment because my family loves it so much. I will carry on this tradition in Aunt Erna’s honor. I agree with Carol that Aunt Erna was such a hard worker, painting for others, cleaning, baking, cooking, etc and of course raising her family. She was an active member of the Church and put in many hours there as well. We talked about her hand washing all the little communion cups by hand until they got disposable ones and I remember watching her do that at the Church. She was always busy and of course had her side kick Martha with her most of the time. They would work circles around other people. My daughters Heather and Megan say that whenever they looked at Aunt Erna they saw Grandpa Reinny (the same eyes). A few weeks ago when I was visiting Aunt Erna, my daughter Heather and her baby Harlow were able to see her too and we were looking through my facebook and phone for photos to show her and to take a trip down memory lane. I showed Aunt Erna a picture of my dad and said and who is this Aunt Erna? She got a big smile on her face and said, “that is my Reinny.” They had such a close bond as siblings and I know she missed not having any siblings and her close friends and family that have passed away to visit with. Living 96 years you outlive so many of your family and friends. She would just light up when any of us would go to visit. Her final years, or especially the last few months were not easy for her but now she is finally at peace, free of pain, breathing without oxygen, and reunited with those who have gone before her. May God Bless each of you as you mourn her loss and God Bless Aunt Erna as she lives on in Heaven and in our hearts.
Love to all of you,
Diane and Gerry and family
J.D. and Mary Alice Murnion says
To all of Erna’s families, our most sincere sympathy. She wa an amazing woman, always working at something, she and Martha painted my kitchen once and it was just a perfect job as you might expect, because when she done something it was done right. Always seen her and Martha together and I know she must have missed her so much when she passed on, good friends like that are hard to find, but now they are all together again. God Bless all of you.
Phil and Darlene says
Condolences and Prayers to all of Erna’s family she was a great lady. May the good memories make this sad time easier for you.God Bless You.
Karen and Allen Barnes says
To all of Erna’s family – we extend our sympathy to you all – no matter what the age we know it still hurts when you lose them. I can’t remember not knowing Erna as she lived just down the street from us when I was growing up and all the neighborhood kids played together so we all knew everyone’s Mom. Later on we bought our house just across the alley from her and Sam and remained good neighbors until she moved to Miles City because of health reasons. We had many good visits over the fence over the years. She will be missed.
Gloria and DJ Milroy says
To the family of my dear Aunt Erna, My deepest sympathies and most heartfelt condolences to each of you. For her, I am thankful there is no more pain and she is at peace and with her Lord. As my heart is heavy at the loss of this dear lady, I also celebrate her life and treasure many memories of good and happy times that I, and also my children, were privileged to share with her. I will always remember the excitement of going to the Schwindt home for the family gatherings and seeing the “quilt pile” in the corner of the porch — we knew that under that pile was a treat of home made ice cream, “curing” in the old hand crank freezer. We all looked foreword to her German goodies and treats and still try our hand at trying to make them like she did them. I have always loved the story she told of how she got her freckles — she said “it was from standing under the eaves during the rain — and she rusted!” I can still hear her and Daddy laughing as they shared stories of their heritage, music, and growing up days There were also a few tears, as times were hard in those days. But in spite of all, they knew how to enjoy life and family. I also treasure that in her last days, Carol and I could share some of her favorite hymns with her, and even though her voice was barely audible, she tried to sing along. Aunt Erna dearly loved her family and her Lord. May your memories be a comfort to each of you and may He also walk with each of you and grant you his peace. My dear Aunt Erna…forever in my heart and my memory.
Shirley Posey says
My dear Aunt Erna, I have so many happy-fond memories of you that will be a part of my life forever. You were not only an aunt, you were a dear friend to me and my family. We had so many great times together on all our trips visiting you from the time Monte and I got married and he was based at McChord AFB to the times we went home from Kirkland to ND. We never missed seeing you at least one way, (sometimes both), going or coming back. Me and my family will miss you greatly. I love you with my whole heart and know you are enjoying happy times with all our family that before you. I can only imagine the fun stories you are sharing of old times together.
To my cousins, spouses, and your children, my love and prayers are with you on your loss. You had a wonderful mother/grandmother that loved you all and was so proud of all of you. She shared many stories with me, about you. I know you will all miss her, but you also will remember the love, fun times and her wonderful sense of humor. God bless you all
Connie Blonigen says
I am saddened to hear of Grandma Schwindt’s passing. She was a wonderful and loving woman who I have many fond memories of. Her German food dishes were beyond compare and I have yet to find any as good. Her Easter kuchen were especially looked forward to. I also have good memories of watching her and Evon make strudel as well. DJ and Amber had fun at her house when they were young when she babysat them. Except for the time she was watching DJ and Pat Barnes’ pickup rolled down the hill and ended up going through her bathroom wall. DJ says he still remembers that day! I hope her families will find comfort in the many good memories they have of her.
Ida Whitesell says
Our Dear, Dancing, Fun Loving, Aunt Erna. You added much to your corner of the world. Now enjoy your Heavenly Home. Dance Before the Lord, my Aunt Erna. To the Family, Dance on for Jesus on this earth. We will meet Aunt Erna and all those who have gone before us.
Ida (Westbrook) Whitesell. Daughter of Lydia (Schwindt) Westbrook
Erma Schwindt Oeffner says
To my wonderful aunt Erna. From the time I was a little girl I would watch to see if uncle Sam & aunt Erna were up at Grandma Rath”s house. I then ran home & told mom & dad (guess who’s here?) My mother always knew who it was because of the sparkle in my eyes. I was so happy, aunt Erna would always bring us the best treats. She always treated us kids equally. Our dear aunt Erna would tease me because I went out to Jordan with my grandma Rath & uncle Reinhardt to stay with Aunt Erna’s older kids while she was in the hospital. That was the best offer I could ever have for a summer job. I heard grandma talking about going back to Tuttle, I started crying, wouldn’t eat, I was so lonesome, I wanted to go home. Grandma agreed, my summer job didn’t last very long.
She was the most generous, fun loving aunty. She would have everyone in stitches at times because of her humor. I love you auntie & will always have fond memories & you will never be forgotten. She will be missed by all. To the family we send our love & condolences. we feel your sorrows.
Love you all & God bless each and everyone of you.
Erma
Gary Rath says
I remember many, many trips to Jordan to visit Aunt Erna and Uncle Sam. As the last of her generation of Rath’s, her passing marks the end of a generation of some of the hardest working people I have ever known. Only a few days ago, I was going through a box of old “stuff” and I found the card Erna sent to me when I graduated from College and her hand written not saying “Keep working hard.”
To her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren go our condolences. Keep the good memories until we all meet again.
Gary and Cindy Rath
Valerie says
I remember when Tony and I were little how much we loved to go to Grandpa and Grandma Schwindt’s. I treasure those times. It is very difficult for me how to express how I am feeling but I would like to tell my family I love them all and have you in my thoughts and prayers.
Kara (Clark) Lambert says
To all my family I send my love and hugs. Aunt Erna was such a wonderful warm lady. I have such wonderful memories staying there in the summer with Val. She was an amazing cook and baker, always having cookies and goodies for us kids to have. She and Uncle Sam were so special to me as she was the only sibling of my Grandpa Reinny’s that I really got to know. I loved to listen to her tell stories, one of my favorites was when she and grandpa burned the haystack down. I can still hear her giggle and loved how much she reminded me of Grandpa with her expressions and actions. Loved the little bit of German accent that was always there. The few times that I was able to visit her in Miles City she always knew who I was and was genuinely happy to see me. Love you all and thinking of you all.
Susan Stockert & LeNora Folmer says
I remember whenever we would come to Jordan how much I enjoyed staying with Evon at Uncle Sam and Aunt Erna’s house. I enjoyed all her good German food dishes she would make. She will be missed by many. LeNora (Berg) Folmer
I also remember coming to Jordan with Mom (Katie) and staying at Aunt Erna and Uncle Sam’s house. She always had something baking, I remember having caramel rolls or muffins along with your eggs and bacon for breakfast. She was always happy to see you come for a visit and had a way about her to always make you feel right at home. I will always remember her for her warm smile, funny jokes and her laugh. May she enjoy peace in Heaven now that her work on earth is done. Susan (Berg) Stockert
To All of Aunt Erna’s Family our thoughts and prayers are with you
May God Bless You and comfort you in your time of loss
Barbara Draper (youngest daughter of Martha and George Wagner) says
My thoughts and deepest sympathy go out to Aunt Erna’s family. She lived a long and productive life and God has other plans for her, now. I’m sure she was greeted at Heaven’s gate by my mother and father, Martha and George, and all others who’ve gone on before.
May she rest in peace.
God’s love and blessings.
Sherman Galla says
I’ll never forget my wonderful great grandmother. I was always so excited as a kid to make the long (or so it seemed when I was eight) to Jordan. Especially for Easter. I LOVED the ‘birds’ she used to make us, as well as all the kuchen we coukd eat. The deep freezer she had near the front door was a treasure trove of all her baked goodies!
I’m sorry grandma I wasn’t able to come say goodbye one last time. It breaks my heart to know I won’t be able too, but I know you’ve been reunited with grandpa in heaven. I’ll never forget you. I love you Grandma Schwindt. (Thank you for choosing my name. I’m more proud than ever to tell people that)
Sheila Hannon says
So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marlys Burkett says
Thank you all. Ron, Tony, Annette, Mahri, Nathan, Evan, Edurnie, Jahsen, and I appreciate all the love and memory sharing. We thank God for giving us such a Mother and Grandmother.
We thank Him for giving her a full life and are at peace knowing she can now RIP with all those who have passed on before. May she rest in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Stacey Galla says
Gramma, was a real friend to me growing up, we were laughing all the time. I would spend a lot of time with Gramma . When I had my first born , yes she was there, so sweet saying….. Stacey name him Sherman, I would say to her maybe, Gramma would say back to me sweetly , “well I just love the name; ” Sherman” Stacey, and you should name his middle name after your Dad, “Gary” WHOM SHE JUST ADORED! So because I loved her so much, I gave the name to my son. Gramma was very proud of that and would remind me by saying…. Well yess, Stacey…. I named my great grandson, Sherman Gary. ” Go figure a pure bread German would love the name Sherman! I know she is in heaven and I miss her!!!
Nancy Smith Savage says
Aunt Erna was a wonderful lady who liked to bake, visit, and dance. When Uncle Sam passed, she took time to explain to us that he went far away to Heaven. When my Dad passed in Jordan while visiting Patsy and family, Aunt Erna had me stay with her. She was such a comfort and a good hostess. I got loving hugs from Aunt Erna when my dear Mom, Rosina, went home to be with Jesus and was also laid to rest in Jordan. The last time I saw my Aunt Erna was at the reunion in N. D. The highlight of that reunion was watching her dance. It is a memory I will always cherish. God Bless You, sweet Auntie. May you rest in
the arms of our loving Lord & Savior. Your niece, Nancy