Ian T. Thomas Kunesh, age 25, of Great Falls passed away May 30, 2016, at Benefis Health System in Great Falls.
Ian was born on November 4, 1990, in Satu Mare, Romania. His mom travelled to Romania and adopted him on June 21, 1991 in Arad, Romania, bringing him home in July of 1991. Ian became a United States citizen in July of 1993.
Ian attended Brorson School and graduated from Lambert High School in 2009. He attended Dawson Community College but decided that school wasn’t for him.
While in school, Ian participated in 4-H, flag football, basketball, gymnastics and rodeo. He did well, medaling in the pommel horse at the state gymnastics meet. Ian started rodeoing when he was 6 years old on his pony, “P” and continued through high school. In 2007, Ian was MHSRA Reserve Champion Bull Rider and went to the National High School Rodeo Finals in Springfield, IL. Ian adored his animals. He loved to sing and was very artistic.
Ian lived and worked in Williston, ND, Miles City, MT and Great Falls, MT in the years following graduation. He made many friends with his personality and kind heart. He accepted the Lord as his Savior and was baptized at the Solid Rock Church in Great Falls. Ian loved his family dearly including all his cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents.
In Ian’s short life, he had many medical issues including surviving two bouts of cancer. He had many struggles in life, one of which was where he fit in.
Ian was preceded in death by his grandparents Ernie and Helen Kunesh, aunt Donna Neumiller, and cousins Chad Kunesh and Lori Sexton Toavs.
He is survived by his parents Tom and Gay Kunesh of Miles City, grandparents Eugene and Ethel Brost of Sidney, MT, aunts and uncles Cherie (Edwin) Gatzke, Sidney, MT, Keith (Collette) Brost, Brush, CO, Dick Kunesh, Helena, MT, Sue (Frito) Humphrey, East Helena, MT, Nancy (Darrel) Vannoy, Lincoln, IL, Dolly (Buck) Pandis, Great Falls, MT, Chuck (Lori) Kunesh, Clarksville, TN as well as numerous cousins and special friend, Ki Wine.
We only had 25 years with you – filled with both happiness and great sorrow. We wish we had more but the time we had enriched our lives in so many ways. May you find the peace you are looking for and we will always love you.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 5, 2016 from 1:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Circle. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 6, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Circle with burial following in Riverview Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Circle is in charge of the arrangements.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday June 5, 2016
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
702 Lehman Ave.
Circle, Montana 59215
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday June 6, 2016
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
702 Lehman Ave.
Circle, Montana 59215
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday June 5, 2016
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
702 Lehman Ave.
Circle, Montana 59215
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday June 6, 2016
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
702 Lehman Ave.
Circle, Montana 59215
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Rob A Teeters says
Tom, Gay and Kunesh Family,
Words cannot explain the shock we’re in, I want you to know I have you in my thoughts and prayers.
Rob and Chastity
Jim and Ann Willson says
tom, Gay and Family:
Just seen this and want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hold on to all those happy moments and they will be your most treasured memories.
Craig & Doreen Herbert says
Tom & Gay,
We are so sorry to hear of the devastating news of Ian’s death. Know that our prayers are with you all during the months ahead as you deal with this heartache.
Cheyenne Lockwood says
So many memories, I am so very hurt by this news. I miss you already, gone but you will,neverbe forgotten
Hannah (Ramsey) Kramer says
Mr. and Mrs. Kunesh,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Ian was a very dear friend to me, he was always there when I needed a laugh, a shoulder to cry on, or someone to talk to. He was one of the kindest people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. I am so heartbroken to learn of his passing and he will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Brian Lewis & Geni says
Tom & Gay
So sorry to hear of your loss of Ian. We send our condolences and are thinking of you in our prayers.
Ellen and Jerry says
Tom & Gay
Our hearts are breaking, our thoughts and prayers are with you both.
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Kyleigh and jade landers says
Tom and Gay
I’m so so sorry for your loss! Ian was an amazing young man and he will be missed by so many! Our thoughts and prayers are with you both and your family ❤️
Carole J. Diede says
So very sorry to hear of this tremendous loss. Ian rodeo-ed with my kids, Colby and Carly. I always enjoyed seeing him and thought he was such a cute little cowboy. May support of friends and family carry you through this time.
Kayleen Peters says
Sending thought and prayers your way during this difficult time.
Rick and Dawn Lee says
Tom and Gay,
Our hearts are breaking, we are so sorry. He always had a huge smile we loved having Ian around when we rodeoed. He will be missed very much!
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
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Tracy, Peggy and crew says
Tom & Gay,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Lisa Fox says
Tom and Gay,
I am so saddened by Ian’s passing. I remember the cute, fun-loving, and caring boy who grew into a man. I hadn’t seen him in a long while, but I can’t help but think that those characteristics went with him into adulthood. He had such a great smile and those eyes; he smiled through his eyes. I am so very sorry, hugs and prayers are sent your way…
Candy Murnion says
So Sorry for your loss, can’t imagine your pain. With Gods love and time you can get through. Hold your memories close.
DeWayne and Candy
Dewitt & Pam Mack says
Gay and Tom,
You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. May the grace of our Lord bring you comfort. Dewitt & Pam Mack
Lee and Jacquie Pourroy and girls says
Tom and Gay,
We were so saddened to hear about Ian. We were fortunate to see Ian grow into a sweet young man. Always, meeting you at Sue’s and Kristen giving us the highlight of the day with Ian.
He was so full of life and had a smile that reached out to everyone. He had a super personality.
Cherish all of your memories and hold them close to your heart.
Penny Pulver Teeters says
Tom & Gay:
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember Ian at the YRA and HS rodeo’s.
He had the most infectious smile that couldn’t help but make others smile too.
Callie (Teeters) Bailey says
Tom and Gay,
Words cannot express what I want to convey. You’re in my prayers. Hugs and love to you.
Patti Jo & Randy Searer and family says
We are thinking of you and sending all our prayers your way. So many memories of him growing up at the country school and throughout YRA and MHSRA rodeos.
Bob and Sheree Albin says
Tom and Gay, our hearts broke when we heard the news about Ian. So many neighborhood memories and at the Brorson School. We will always remember his smile!
Brooke Leininger says
My heart hurts for Ian and his family.. I grew up in gymnastics with Ian, then later worked with him at Dairy Queen for a few years and never had a dull moment!! Your struggles were real Ian and I am so sorry for everything you went through. His parents raised a wonderful man that I am lucky to call my friend. You and your family will be in my prayers..
Devra Goulart says
Tom, Gay and family
I am so sorry to hear of Ian’s death. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ken and Vicki Hess says
Tom and Gay: So sorry to hear about Ian. Know that we will be sending our thoughts and prayers your way.
angela bergeson says
Tom and Gay, I am so saddened to hear of the loss of your son. Praying for peace which passeth all understanding for everyone.
Dave and Mary Jensen says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dean, Laraine, Tanner, and Kali Schillinger says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time and always. Ian was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by everyone.
Dean, Laraine, Tanner, and Kali Schillinger
Dena Walker says
Uncle Tom and Aunt Gay, my heart is broken for you, will keep my memories of Ian in better times alive, love you so much, and will keep you in my thoughts❤
Paul & Tracy Denowh says
We were so sorry to hear about Ian. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless
Richard and Rhonda Fink says
Tom and Gay we are so sad to hear about Ian. Pleaser know we will be praying for strength and comfort for you. We will always remember Ian. Richard and Rhonda Fink and family
Nancy says
Gay and Tom. My heart breaks for you.
Nancy Vaira
Therese Forbes says
Tom & Gay, my heart skipped a beat when I saw that Ian had died. My deepest sympathy and prayers.
Amy Kvaalen says
So sorry for your loss.
Dave & Cathy Wieferich says
We are thinking of you Tom and Gay during this difficult time. Hugs and prayers!
Kristin larson says
Tom & Gay,
Our thoughts and prayers are going out to you. Tim shared many memories of Ian he had with us and all of them brought a smile. We hope you can find comfort and strength from all who care and their prayers.
Tim & Kristin Larson
Grady, Garrett, Landry & Leddy
Nadine Swisse says
So sorry for your loss of Ian. You are in our thoughts and prayers!
Randy and Donita Teeters says
We heard your sad news. We can only imagine how you must be feeling. Please take comfort from friends and family near you. Know that those of us away hold you in our hearts and prayers. May God give you peace and strength at this time. Love you both.
Newkirk, Oklahoma
Tom Geary says
Tom and Gay,
So sorry to hear about Ian. Can’t imagine your pain. Please know you are in our prayers.
God Bless!
Christy & Richard Albin says
Tom & Gay and family, we are so sorry to hear of Ian’s passing, I remember the days of basketball and his smiling face, he was always so kind to everyone! Hold on to those special memories. Thinking of you all!
Richard Waterman says
Tom and Gay,
Sorry to hear about Ian. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Ashley jackling says
Tom and gay,
I’m sorry about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kevin and Carrie Brost says
So very saddened and shocked to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with your family.
Kristy says
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Scott,Kristy & Tyler Thorson
Rae Ann Klose says
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have so many gymnastics memories of our little group of boys. My heart aches for you all! You are being held up in prayer dear friends.
Jo & Shane Vaira says
With deepest sympathy for your loss. Ian’s friends and family are in our thoughts & prayers.
Gwen Logan says
I’m so sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. Always remember him at Cohagen teaching Tory how to get on her horse by herself. He’s already missed. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Ken and Peggy Kolka says
We are so very sorry….always liked his big smile at the high school rodeos
Ahlgren says
Hugs to you, so sorry for your loss, we all enjoyed Ian in those great rodeo years. Our thoughts and prayers to you.
John & Connie Ahlgren
Cindy Tippett says
So sorry for your loss.
Peggy Ames Nerud says
Tom and Gaye,
You have our sympathies on the loss of Ian. We are so sorry. You are in our thoughts and hearts.
Peggy and Chuck
Bonnie (Voegele) Dent says
Tom and family so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers for you all and Kunesh family.
Kodi Fischer says
Tom & Gay I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kodi
JoAnn and Billy Hoverson says
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart just breaks thinking about what you are feeling right now. I have many fond memories of Ian at the YRA rodeos and SSC. You are in my prayers.
Cathy Roesler says
Tom and Gay prayers for your comfort and strenghth through such an awful time.
May Ann Steinbeisser says
Tom and Gay,
We were shocked to learn of Ian’s passing. We share in your sorrow. May God comfort you and give you peace as you go through this trial.
Jim, May Ann, Corbin, Liam and Claire Steinbeisser
Kara Triplett says
So sorry to hear of this!! Thoughts and prayers your way!
Gloria & Ken Vrost says
Tom and Gay – we are so saddened by news of Ian’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hold on to the good memories.
Gloria and Ken Brost
Leroy Kirkegard says
In our thoughts and prayers.
Leroy and Margie
Al & Sue Thiessen says
Tom and Gay- we are so sorry to hear about Ian. May God Bless You with peace and strength.
Al & Sue Thiessen.
Randy & Stacy Brunsvold says
Tom, Gay & family,
Our sincere sympathy to all of you. Will be keeping you in our prayers. Take care.
Bonnie Schriver Quinnell says
Tom and Gay: My prayers are with you both. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Ron & Marj Dahle says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Paige Garcia says
I taught history to Ian in Lambert. He had a great heart and always a smile. Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers.
Dawson Nunn says
Tom and gay if you do see this please know that my family and I will all ways be here for you you can call us anytime we love you very much ian was a great friend to me as well as the whole family he will be dearly missed and I will never forget all the times we laughed. He was indeed THE one of a kind amazing person we all knew he was
Patsy & Harvey Kuntz says
Tom & Gay so sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Tom and Tami Nunn says
Ian we miss you so very much you were like one of my kids you will always be in our hearts. You had so much to give and so much love in you for the world. Tom and Gay we are here for you and always no words to be spoken to ease your pain please know that we love you guys and are here for you.
Rick & Luann Cooley says
Tom, Gay & Family
So sad to hear of the loss of Ian. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kim Syth says
Dear Gay, Tom and extended family and friends,
I was so sorry to her that Ian had passed away. I can not even imagine the pain you are feeling at this time. Hold tight to the good memories to help you through the tough days. I remember how awesome Ian was in gymnastics and the rodeos. His beautiful smile will be greatly missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless – Kim Syth
Greg and Mikey Rauschendorfer says
So sorry for Your loss! Know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you now and days to come. God Bless Greg and Mikey
Scott and Dawn Greenwood says
We are so sad for your loss of Ian. He had a smile for everyone and was a great kid. We are so sorry to hear of his struggles with cancer. Our prayers go out to you in this difficult time.
Les and Shelly Haugen says
Tom and Gay, Les and I extend our sincere sympathy on the loss of your beloved son Ian. You are in our hearts and prayers. Les and Shelly Haugen
Nola Hunter says
Words cannot be said about the sorrow I am feeling for your family right now. Just know that you are in my prayers. Love you both lots.
Kay NIce says
Ian was a great young man! May you be comforted by the memories of his MANY friends and the by the arms of the Lord and Savior. I pray for strength, comfort and peace for you and your family.
Trevor Kirstie & Westin Nelson says
Tom&Gay
We are so sorry for your loss. He was a great person! Many memories with him growing up in the high school rodeo trail.. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Lance & Lynesse Voegele says
Our hearts are at a pause as we try to make sense of this life God has blessed us with here on Earth. The memories of Ian as a child and the amazing effect he made in your life’s is what I will hold on to. We Love you both and Pray for comfort and Peace in these difficult times.
Katelyn (Koch) Peterson says
Tom & Gay, I am so very sorry for your loss. I have so many wonderful memories of Ian from gymnastics, 4-H, and, the Brorson/Rau events. He had a smile that could light up a room and a laugh that was infectious. Hold the memories tight to your heart. Sending love and prayers to you both and your family.
Lavetta Weeding says
Tom and Gay,
I was shocked to hear the sad news!! My heart goes out to you guys. I remember Ian at the YRA and high school rodeos. He always had a smile and was a friend to everyone! Sending hugs and prayers your way!
Jim & Janet Brunsvold says
Hey Tom & Gay, damn I’m so sorry to hear this. I never met Ian other then at some ropings when he was a pup. If ever in New Mexico look us up. Again so sorry and prayers for you & yours
Mike Bingen says
So sorry for your loss – He will be forever in your hearts!
Janice Norby says
My Sincere Sympathy to all of you. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Claiten Harris says
Ian was a great man! Very friendly and very much loved amongst all of my friends. Though I know Ian during a rough time in my life, he was always so helpful and loving.
I have so much love for Ian, and will miss him greatly.
Sandie Miller Green says
Our hearts are so saddened with the loss of this amazing kind young man. He always had a smile and was the life of the crowd at all of the High School rodeos . May god wrap his arms close around you and give your family peace ! Prayers and hugs for you all in this sad time
Rowdy and Melanie Cvancara says
Tom and Gay
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. We are so very very sorry.
Rowdy & Melanie Cvancara
jude says
My Dearest Ian,
We loved having you and Ki Wine over to our house for movie night. Mr. Dudley will miss you. I hope you find what your looking for and that your soul soars. I love you Ian.
JUDE
Mary Owens says
Gay & Tom
I just found out yesterday! I am so sorry! My heart breaks for you! My prayers are with you both. I can not imagine your heartbreak. Know that many are praying and thinking of you! May God Bless you!
Sending prayers and thoughts!
Randy & Mary Owens
Nancy anderson says
Tom and Gay,
So very sorry for your loss! Words cannot express! With our deepest sympathy. Bless you both!
Nancy and David Anderson
Jerry Curtiss says
Tom & Gay
We are very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jerry & Pam Curtiss
TJ and Liane Newman and family says
Tom and Gay
So sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you!!
Jack Tidaback says
Gay and Tom,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Ian had a way about him to bring a smile to everybody’s face. We were all family throughout the rodeo years, smiling and laughing and Ian was always in the center of the fun. He will be deeply missed by all that had the blessing to meet him. Keep God in your heart and allow him to give you peace during this time. You will be in my thoughts, and my prayers go out to you.
Sincerely, Jack Tidaback