Early on the morning of May 20, 2016 Michelle passed away after a 5 1/2 year battle with cancer; while being comforted by her husband and mother at her home in Miles City, MT. Michelle was 54 years old.
Michelle (Courchene) Willson was born in the town of Wolf Point, Montana at 5:27 PM on February 16, 1962. She was the first child, and the first daughter, of Sandy Sebring Courchene and Richard Vaughn Courchene.
Michelle was raised during her early years, on her grandparent’s ranch in McCone County in Eastern Montana. Michelle became her Grandpa’s helper and went with him most everywhere he went: feeding cattle, checking calves and horses. Michelle also helped her Gram in the garden until she was found eating earth worms and her Mom had to take her back to the house. Michelle hated shoes and would throw her shoes in the duck pond and run around bare foot.
In the spring of 1968, Michelle got to see a little of the United States when her mother drove Michelle, her sister Angela and her Grandmother Pearle to Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm and Sea World in California.
Michelle attended elementary school in Glendive, MT until moving to Miles City in 1973 where she started 6th grade. It was during this time that Michelle met a boy named David Allan Willson. According to Dave, it was from that moment that Michelle captivated him and continued to keep his attention over the years to come. Michelle and Dave grew closer as time passed and began dating when they were 16. They continued to date through High School, whereupon they graduated from Custer County District High School in 1980.
During her High School years, Michelle was a member of the Concert Choir and attended State Competitions. Michelle loved to dance and attended all formals during her High School years.
Still enthralled with one another, after High School, Michelle and Dave moved to Stevensville, MT in 1980 before returning to Miles City in 1981.
Michelle and Dave decided to declare their love for one another and exchanged vows of marriage on April 14, 1984.
In the fall of 1985, Michelle and Dave became parents when their first son, Zeth Nicolas-Heaton Willson, was born.
Michelle and Dave continued their journey in parenthood when their second son, Wyatt Tennyson Willson was born on September 11, 1989.
Michelle developed an interest in the game of pool at an early age and over the years she became a tenacious pool player. Michelle and her teammates Carla, Shannon and Stacey “Jake”; dominated the Women’s Pool League in Miles City for a decade.
Michelle decided to further her education and attended Miles Community College where she obtained an Associate’s degree. While going to college, Michelle worked at Family Floral where she became close with the Mayberry family and made many other contacts.
After receiving her degree, Michelle began working at Trinity Lutheran Pre-school where she had the opportunity to touch the lives of many individuals, young and old alike. Michelle continued teaching at Trinity Lutheran until 2006 when she started working at Garfield Elementary School.
In August 2011, Michelle’s greatest struggle began when she was diagnosed with cancer. Michelle underwent multiple surgeries as well as radiation therapy and 2 separate cycles of chemo therapy at locations such as Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, Cancer Center of America in Phoenix, AZ and Billings Clinic.
After 5 ½ years of fighting, Michelle succumbed to complications related to the cancer.
Michelle loved spending time with family, holding hands and being held by those close to her, being outdoors gardening, painting ceramics, rooms, houses, coloring with crayons and colored pencils, playing with her pets, playing Pinochle, playing pool, softball and volleyball. Michelle was best known for singing, whistling and making animal noises for her great-niece Bella and Grandson Jayden.
Michelle was preceded in death by: Theodore/Pearle Sebring (grandparents), Chris Nasby (great uncle), David/Virginia Courchene (grandparents), Richard Courchene (Father), Yvonne Niles (Sister-in-law), Jimmy Niles (Brother-in-law), Jim Niles (expanded family), Norman Willson (expanded family) and Carla Murphy (Pool Team-mate).
Michelle is survived by: Dave Willson (husband), Zeth Willson (son), Wyatt Willson (son), Kari Olson (expanded family), Sandy/ Rob Martin (mother/step-father), Bonnie Willson (mother-in-law), Ed Martin (step-uncle), John Martin (step-uncle), Joanne Kison (step-aunt), Angela/ Ken Miller (sister/bother-in-law), Christian, Sheryden and Zachary Miller (nephews/niece), Bella Head (great-niece), Mike Niles (brother-in-law), Megan/ Gresham Agnew (Niece/spouse), Hanna/ Drew Patenaude (Niece/spouse), Beth Niles (Niece), Jayden Paul (grandson), Elizabeth Courchene (half-sister), Christine Courchene (half-sister), Patrick Courchene (half-brother), Destiny/ Levi Carlson (Niece/spouse), Olinda/ Tyler Peplinski (Niece/spouse), Dustin Diede “Little Brother” and all the uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and acquaintances that were touched by Michelle’s life.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Custer County High School Gymnasium. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Tim & Kris Crews says
To Dave and Family: We are very sorry for your loss. May you be comforted and Michelle’s memories a blessing to you all.
Vicki McLean says
Sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. She was a very special lady and I will miss her holiday texts and her sweetness. May you find confront in knowing that she is spreading her wonderment in those wings of royalty and no longer suffering. My heart and love go out to all of you and if there is something you may need ,in which I can help please feel free. ???
Leah K. Miller says
Dave, Zeth, Wyatt and all the rest of Michelle’s family,
So sad to hear Michelle lost her battle with the dreaded cancer fight. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. She is no longer in pain, and is whole again. She will continue to look over all of you and guide you in life. Again deepest sympathies to all of you. Leah and family
Katie Seminole says
Dave, Wyatt and Family,
I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of Michelle, she was a great lady and always had a smile and a laugh. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Katie Seminole and family
Roxanna Brush says
Sorry for your loss.
Rose Timmons says
Dave and Family,
I am so sorry to see Michelle gone; I always enjoyed talking with her living next door, she was a Kind and Caring person and I will miss her so very much. May Our Father and Son give you comfort in your Journey.
Jim and Ann Willson says
Dave, Zeth, Wyatt
Our hearts are grieving with you. Hold all those special memories of all the good times you shared with Shelly. She will always be with you in your hearts and minds giving you comfort.
She was a very strong woman with a deep faith in God which helped her through her rough times. Our love goes out to you
Jim and Ann
Dawn Beddes says
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, she was an amazing lady that will truely be missed…..my thoughts and prayers are with you all….
Ashley says
So sorry to hear about this. Wyatt u and ur family will be in our prayers. She was amazing. My daughter loved her lots.
Jean Doran says
Dave, Wyatt, and Zeth: So sorry to hear of Michelle passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. She was a wonderful friend and a strong warrior. She is now a sweet “Angel” in heaven without pain.
Tawny Morgan says
Dave and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Michelle fought a good fight. She was a wonderful person with a huge heart. She was an inspiration to anyone lives she touched.
Sue Winter Page says
My thoughts are with the Dave and family. Michelle was an amazing woman! May you find peace in her unending love in your time of sorrow.
Pam says
So very sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. Please take comfort knowing she is pain free now and in the company of our Lord.
Jess and Jen Willson says
Dave, Zeth, Wyatt
I’m Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Burl Mulkey says
I’m so sorry for your loss Dave .
Penny Hart says
Dave, Zeth,Wyatt,
My thoughts and prayers are with, Chelle was a beautiful lady inside and out. She is and will be missed always.
Love Penny
Vickie Schneidt says
Dave, I am saddened to read that you lost your Michelle. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Shannon Dowse says
To all of Chelles family.
We are so sorry for your loss. Chelle was an amazing person! I will forever cherish our pool playing days. She was an angel and I am sure she will be watching over us all. Rest in peace my dear friend. I will miss you!!!,
Cassie Parker says
Dave, Zeth and family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Our hearts break for you as we understand the great loss and grief you feel. There are no words to express how beautiful, sweet and loving Michelle is and will always be. We pray Gods hand brings you peace and comfort. We know she is heaven waiting at the gates. Heaven gained another angel.
Love and prayers, Randy & Cassie Parker
Tory Fields says
Dear Dave and Family, thinking of you ALL with much love! What a inspiration Michelle was to all of us and she battled this cancer with her entire heart and soul. The pain she endured is something no one should EVER have to experience): She kept her faith and courage and braved her way through depth’s of agony we can’t begin to know. Now, the struggle and pain is gone…she is in Heaven! May all your beautiful memories sustain your hearts until you meet again. She left a huge mark on this community and she will be missed so very much. God Bless You ALL… Much LOVE-Tory
Peter Paul says
Man she was a good lady. She will be be missed deeply.
Abbie Herring says
Dave,
Joseph and I are praying for you, Zeth and Wyatt. We hope for a sense of peace in the wake of Michelle’ s passing.
David and Punky Mann says
We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family
Xina Niles says
I will miss Chelle’s beautiful smile.
Love you.
Feeling the hole in your heart and the tears on my cheeks.
Xina
james powell and family says
To Dave and family, you all are in our prayers and thoughts, may the road ahead ease with time.
Jay Nunn says
Very sorry for your loss Dave, my best to you and your family.
Phyllis Anderson Stevens says
Dave and family–I will never forget Michelle! I am so sorry to hear of what she’s been going through but please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this time and knowing that she is out of pain helps just a little bit! Love you all and many prayers coming your way!
Trish Grau says
Sorry to all of you grieving, may God bless and keep you in his comforting embrace. I’m sure there is much rejoicing at the gates of heaven as she is welcomed in.
Mary (Muff) Engdahl says
Dave, Zeth & Wyatt,
Our thoughts and prayers to all of you. Michelle was one of a kind, so many wonderful memories playing pool league with her. She may be gone but will never be forgotten with all that knew and loved her. Hold your memories close in your hearts they will lift you up during this time of sorrow.
Muff
Jourdon Courchene says
You are in the place you always wondered about. with your Dad and other special people..I love you cuz and wish I could’ve got to know you a little better..rest in peace ✌
Pam and Dean Henman says
Dave, Zeth & Wyatt,
Dean and I were so sad to here about Michelle passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your boy’s.
Sandi Kohones says
I am so sorry for your loss. Michelle was a wonderful person and will always be remembered as such.
Dave Johnson says
Dave, Zeth, and Wyatt,
I am so sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. She was a tremendous lady with a lot of fight within her. She is now at peace and the demon called ‘Cancer” will no longer harm her. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Margaret Aaby says
Dave and family,
I’m sorry for your loss. May God bless all of you.
Mallorey Vera says
Dave, Zeth, Wyatt….
My heart is so saddened to hear of your loss. She was the best “mother of the neighborhood” and she will be amazingly missed. Sending prayers and good thoughts your way. Love you all!!
Denise Harvey says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
Denise and Jay Harvey
Niki minkoff says
So sorry for your loss .
Mike & Judy Toennis Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families.
Laurie Stolen Suppes says
Cuz, you have touched my life in so many ways. My father loved you, Ang & your mom dearly. My thoughts & prayers to your Family – “Though gone from our sight, Loved Ones are never gone from our Heart.”. My love to the boys, Aunt Sandy/Rob & Cuz Angie. All who are toughed by your loss. The angels have gained a lovely voice to join their chior
Kevin & Susan Hom says
Dave and family, we are so sad to hear Michele is gone. Such a nice and sweet person, I loved that few minutes we would pass each other at Garfield school to say hi or talk for a few minutes. I miss that and have for some time now. Wish I knew her better, after reading all about her life and her likes, I read where she liked to color and I had to smile because I still do also. You will all be in our prayers, HUGS to you and the boys Dave.
Heather & Scott Nelson says
We are so sorry for your loss. I worked with Michele at Garfield School. She was such a great inspiration to the kids and always had a smile for everyone. Cherish your memories together. – Heather and Scott Nelson
beth alles says
Dave and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of such an amazing women. She taught me so much in the time i knew her. She blessed me getting to know her thru the good and the bad of her disease. i will always treasure her and the memories of her and all of you guys. beth alles
Megan Emmons says
Dave, boys and family,
Heaven has gained a beautiful soul. She was pure sunshine in my life and the lives of so many others. I will continue to pray for God’s grace to touch your family. What a blessing Michelle was to all that knew her. She will forever be a sweet and dear friend, remembered for her faith in our Lord and Savior. I will greatly miss our many conversations, and am sending love your way!
Teri Sanford Muggli says
I’m having a hard time putting what I’m feeling into words. I know that my life was enriched just for having known her. Wyatt .Seth , Dave I’m so so sorry for your loss . may her loving spirit comfort you. Its hard to say good-bye. Chelle you are still my hero. Rest in peace
Teri Sanford Muggli says
I’m sorry Zeth ……..auto correct
Randy & Deb Bickel says
Dave and family, so sorry for your loss. Will always remember the pool shooting days and what a fantastic player she was. Now her and our cousin Carla are shooting pool together in the heavens. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless.
Karen & Jack Austin and family says
Dave and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. What a courageous battle she waged against this cancer. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Christen LeBlanc Birkholz says
Dave, I am so sorry to learn of Chelle’s passing. I remember hanging out in West Yellowstone with you both and the extended Koelzer family a few summers ago- I know how much that time together meant to everyone there. You all are in my heart, thoughts and prayers in the days to come.
TJ and Tana Kiel says
Dave and family –
We are so sorry for your loss. I only knew Michelle through Garfield School, but she was always so friendly and the kids all loved her – our daughter ALWAYS said hi to her and visited with her when we’d run into her in stores or on the street. She was a strong person and fought a heck of a battle. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Deb Bartholomew says
Dave, Zeth and Wyatt; and All Michelle’s Family:
I was so so very saddened to hear about the loss of Michelle. God has gained an amazing Angel. Michelle touched so many hearts in our community that she will be truly missed. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. Michelle will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure and Cherish all your memories as they will help get through the days to come. My thoughts and prayers are with all.
Mike and Debbie Stocker says
All of Chelle’s Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We were lucky to know Chelle from Mike’s sister Karla when they were playing pool on the same team. Chelle was a fun person to be around and We know her and Karla are now playing together again. Memories are the one thing you will always have, keep them close. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult days.
Kathi Rooney Pfeifle says
I am so very sorry for your loss, Dave and family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Kevin and Lori Donnelly says
Am so sorry to here of your loss. Don’t understand why things like this happen to best of people. I guess it is just that you notice when the best of people go. May comfort come to Dave and his family. You have had to go through more than your share of hard times. May God be with you.
Kevin and Lori Donnelly
Laura Monasmith says
Words are never enough, so we are sending prayers instead.
Jennifer and Mark Winkley says
We will all miss your beautiful smile, up beat attitude and your fighting spirit. I so enjoyed working with you, all be it too short. Your love for children and working with familes shined through your gentle spirit. I will miss our chat’s Chelle. Rest in Peace my friend.
Stephan & Annie Atkinson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Warren and Rashell Scheeler says
Dave, we are sorry for your loss. May God comfort you through this difficult time.
Scott and Sue Quigley says
Very sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. Our thoughts are with you.
Kelly (Nielsen) Huft says
Dave, boys and all the family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. No matter how long we have it is never enough for those left behind. May knowing she is in heaven and feeling no more pain bring you some comfort in the days ahead. God Bless!
Stephani Schumacher-Collins says
Angela and family
I am sorry to hear of your sisters passing. Michelle is on but another journey, and the love you share will always be, I am sure.
Take care
Stephani Schumacher-Collins
Mike and Deeon Bickle says
So sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
Lynn & Amiee Griffin says
Dave, Zeth, Wyatt, our thoughts and prays are with you. We are so sorry for your loss.
Terry & Brett Bracken says
Dave,
Brett & I are still praying for you. I still can hardly believe it. We are so very sorry for all you and Michelle have suffered, & hope you can take small comfort in knowing that she suffers no more. I hope we meet again, under better circumstances. Do keep in touch. God bless you and yours.
Jeffrey A. "Scooter" Fretland says
Dear Dave and family:
Please excuse my tardiness! I was deeply distraught to hear of Michelle’s passing. I only occasionally have the opportunity to check out the Miles City Star website, which is where I discovered the news of her death. She was a fabulous human being with a kind soul, a generous heart, and a kindred free spirit. I was aware she had been battling cancer for quite a lengthy duration of time, almost five years! It was marvelous to see you both at the
last joint Sacred Heart High School-Custer County High School reunion for the class of 1980 in 2010. may God grant you peace and serenity during this very turbulent and difficult time. I’ll pass the news of Michelle’s death to my sisters, Elin and Medora. Lynn’s obviously known about your situation. I believe Michelle resided in Tioga, North Dakota, for a couple of years in the early 1980s, and was acquainted with my aunt, Ada Fretland, and knew my Fretland and Olson aunts, uncles and cousins from my Dad’s side of the family. This would have occurred during the second oil and petroleum boom. God Bless you all!
Love and peace,
Jeffrey A. “Scooter’ Fretland
El Paso, Texas, U.S.A.