Shirley Laureen (Rene) Frye LaBree passed away on March 8, 2019 at Holy Rosary Hospital in Miles City, Montana, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Rene was born in Baker, MT, on January 12, 1947, the second child of Glen Edward Frye and Ethel Marie Arnold Frye. She joined an older brother Richard Alan born June 14, 1945. At an early age the family moved to Canby, California. Glen and his brother Bert went to work in the logging industry to earn money, so that Glen could come back and buy his mother’s place. While there, another daughter Betty Jean was born July 3, 1949. In 1949 they moved back to the old place in the Opeechee area.
Rene attended the Spring Valley school for a year and a half, and then the family moved to Ekalaka to Ethel’s parents place in 1954. Rene’s first teacher was Ruby Rowley.
Rene finished her schooling in Ekalaka graduating in 1965. She was very strong and tough from milking cows and other farm work all her life and could throw a ball farther then most of the boys. She was always upset that girls couldn’t play basketball like the boys.
Two more brothers were added to the family, William Charles (Bill) was born June 30, 1954, and John Michael (Jack) was born June 27, 1956.
On January 4, 1966, she married Jordan Lee LaBree. While on their honeymoon, they toured the southwest including the Grand Canyon and looked for job opportunities. Their first job was at the Meyer Land and Cattle Company in Arthur, Nebraska. In the fall of 1966, they moved to Plevna and worked for Glenn Rugg. John Edward (Buddy) was born December 7, 1966 in Ekalaka, MT. Their next job was working for the Horse Creek Grazing Association in North Dakota. After the death of Jordan’s brother Harold in December of 1968 they moved back to the ranch to help Linda and ended up taking over. Lee Tat was born November 25, 1969 in Miles City, MT.
Rene enjoyed cooking, gardening, canning, and leatherwork. She loved to take lots of her produce and projects to the county fairs. We can only imagine how many cow hides were cut to make all of the leatherwork projects that she tooled over the years. Rene’s pies and jellies were always a hit at any gathering.
Photography, picture framing, playing cards, and throwing horse shoes were some of her favorite hobbies. She had a love for horses and Border Collie dogs. She traveled to many states and Canada to compete in dog trials. She qualified and competed in the National Sheep Dog trials. Rene had many dogs from her first (Max) to her last (Gabe).
Being active was the norm for Rene. She was a member of The Cowbelles, Homemakers, and Cattlewomen and was president of the Wyoming Sheep Dog Association.
Rene loved and supported all of her family in their activities. There was not a bigger fan of her nieces, nephews and granddaughters in their sports careers. If she couldn’t be at the games she listened on the radio, watched on the computer, or waited impatiently for a phone call or text to get the score or a rundown of the game.
Rene was preceded in death by her parents, brother Rick, and brother Jack.
She is survived by her husband Jordan of 53 years, son Buddy (Amy), Brandee (Derek) Maier and Tyann (Kory) Gausen, son Lee (Cam), granddaughters Hannah, Heather, and Heidi, sister Betty (Jerry) Cline, brother Bill (Cathy) Frye, sisters-in-law Jane and Leanne, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Family will receive friends on Thursday, March 14, 2019 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Visitation in Ekalaka will be held on Friday, March 15, 2019, beginning at 12:00 p.m. at the Ekalaka Elementary Gymnasium followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the Beaver Lodge Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Carter County Museum in Ekalaka or to the Frye Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Thursday March 14, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 PM
Friday March 15, 2019
Ekalaka Elementary School Gymnasium
121 West Speelmon, Street
Ekalaka, Montana 59234
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Thursday March 14, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 PM
Friday March 15, 2019
Ekalaka Elementary School Gymnasium
121 West Speelmon, Street
Ekalaka, Montana 59234
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Deanna Hayden says
We are so very sorry to hear about Rene – she was such a nice lady <3
Prayers going out to all her family and friends!
Dave & Deanna Hayden
Lynette O’Connor says
So sorry to hear about Rene! Hugs and prayers to all her family! Danny and Lynette O’Connor
Candy Loehding says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Rene’s family! I so wish we could be there for you. Rene was so special, beautiful inside and out. She had so much courage and tenacity always! We have lost someone so very special! RIP my lifetime friend…we will meet again!
Lenore and Eloise Beach says
Our prayers and thoughts are with the families during this time of loss. God Bless.
Jim and Ann Willson says
Jordan, Buddy, Lee and Families: Our sympathy goes out to each and every one of you. We will always remember all the good times we all had out on the Mizpah, especially all the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry and picnics, and a friendship that lasted since that time What a beautiful soul Rene’ was She will be missed by all. Let all the Good memories sustain you through this time.
Larry and Madge Pilster says
To Rene’s family..We are so very sorry for your loss of a very special lady in your lives..She will be missed by so many friends and neighbors..We are sending our deepest sympathies and prayers to all of you. No doubt, her assignment in heaven will be working with sheep and border collie dogs..She was a master at training them..Hugs to all of you..
Jeanne Bulkley says
So sorry for your loss, thank you for letting us share the beautiful soul that was Rene.
Brandi Johnstone says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the Frye and LaBree families. May God hold and keep you during this difficult time.
Darbie Karch and family says
Keeping all of Shirley’s family in my thoughts and prayers. She was such a neat gal and I know she will deeply missed by all. Hold on to all of the memories to get u through this trying time. Love the Karch ‘s
Casey Cook says
Shirley will be deeply missed. She was a wonderful person who always had a smile on her face. Sending our deepest sympathies to Shirley’s family and friends.
Sharon Tooke Swartz says
Deepest sympathy to Rene’s family. She was a special person and good friend, and I’ll always cherish my memories of the fun we had in school. RIP dear friend.
Marjorie Burch says
Harold and I are saddened by your loss. Our deepest simpathy to all friends and families.
Amy and Kim Anderson says
Bill, kathy, Jordan and family. So sorry for your loss
Billie Richardson says
Was so thankful to know such a kind human being. Rene was an exceptional humble and generous person who will be dearly missed ❤
Bob Phalen says
Sorry to hear about the loss of Rene, her smile was infectious! I wish Jordan and her boys the best in dealing with their loss. God Bless you all!
Bob and Connie Phalen
Konnie Shuey says
So sorry to hear about the loss of Rene. She always had such a great smile and was such a very nice lady. Treasure all of your great memories. She will always remain a part of you.
Mona and Ron Kramer says
My deepest sympathies to Jordan and the family. Rene was such a wonderful lady and so passionate in everything she set out to do. It was such a Blessing to know her. May she Rest In Peace.
Tom and Kathy Strub says
Jordan, Buddy, Lee and families our hearts and prayers are with you all. Rene was a wonderful woman and will be missed by all.
Dr Grace Blair says
I’m so very sorry for the loss of Rene. Sincere sympathy to Jordan and the rest of the family. May she Rest In Peace.
John McWilliams says
Boy the adventures hunting on the ranch, having coffee, and a good laugh with Jordan, and Rene, are times Judy and I will always cherish. R.I.P. Rene, GOD BLESS Jordan, Buddy, and Lee, and families
Rebecca Kjolberg says
To “Rene”‘s family.
So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you. Prayers.
Curt Wilson and Reb
Jim and Rebecca McCabe says
You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Cherish the memories – ours are of Rene’s smile and her sunny nature. Peace to you all –
Carol and Dolan Dyke says
Jordan and family, so sorry. We send our greatest sympathy to you . What a great loss to the community with Rene’s passing. The dog trials will not be the same.
Leslie Janshen says
Beautiful inside and out. Will miss her dearly. Thought s and prayers with all of you.
Bill and Katie Lane says
What a great neighbor and friend. She will be dearly missed by many. Prayers and blessings to the family.
Bob & Sally Young says
Our hearts ache for all of Rene’s family in their loss of a very special woman. From her dogs to her barn board frames she made many, many wonderful memories. May she rest in peace.
Deb Hofmann says
So sorry for your loss. Rene was so kind and thoughtful. Prayers for her family and friends.
Monty & Laura Monasmith says
Words never seem to be enough at a time like this. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She used the talent God gave her to brighten many lives. She will be missed.
Theresa Collins says
A beautiful woman. Rest In Peace.
Kathleen Corbin says
I didn’t really know Rene. just talked to her on the phone as we both have the same cancer. She was always very pleasant to talk to. I know she will greatly be missed by so many people. My love and prayers go out to her family and friends. Kathleen Corbin
Jesse Leidholt says
My heartfelt sorrow to Rene’s beloved family. I am so fortunate to have known her. She was beautiful in all ways. And a heck of a good card player and always nice, win or lose. She showed many how to handle what life hands you with strength and grace.
kathy nelson says
our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jordon, Buddy and family, and Lee and family. Rene was such a great person and would do anything for anybody. take care love Gordy and Kathy and family
James & Sharon Howe says
So sorry !
Bill and Rita Hanley says
Our thoughts and prayers to Jordan, Buddy, Lee and families and all the Frye and LaBree extended family…. God has gained a beautiful angel and our hearts our breaking here…Never saw Rene without a smile and a kind word…She and Jordan made a great team and she left her kindness wherever she stepped. A beautiful heart, a beautiful soul. So many wonderful memories. God Bless….
Rick & Dee Abbott says
To each of Rene’s family members ~ You are in our thoughts and prayers for God to give you His comfort, peace and solace. Rene was a treasure!!
Denise Harvey says
Dear LaBree family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I can tell what a wonderful lady she was by both the family she has raised and the wonderful words shared here.
Take care!
Denise Harvey
Dennis Edwards and Marlene says
May God’s sweet blessings and grace be your comfort at this time of loss. Rene was ‘the real deal’. She was loyal, loving, rightly ordered and an advocate for the right and reasonable side of any issue. She listened and was honest. She was a sweet and kind friend to Dennis and I and she will be missed. We give thanks to God, for the crossing of our paths and the wonderful friendship we had with her and her family. Much Love, Dennis and Marlene Edwards, Sundance, WY (Dennis was the original owner of Nap and was blessed that
John and Nikki Brown says
Dear Jordan, Buddy, Lee, Betty, Bill, and all of Rene’s family,
Our hearts are breaking at the loss of such a wonderful friend. Never was there a more capable and strong woman.
What a loss to our world. It will always be a sadder place without Rene in it.
How we will miss that smile of hers and the joy she always had in her family.
Sincerely,
John and Nikki
Terri Harrsch says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I grew up with the boys and always thought Rene was a sweet lady! I loved her dimples which were always showing because she was always smiling. She was a beautiful lady inside and out. May God bless you and surround you with peace. She will always be your guardian angel.
Much love,
Terri Harrsch (Oster)
Nancy Creel says
I always loved hearing Rene’s stories of her grandchildren’s sporting success’s. She was always so passionate and enthusiastic about the last event and the next one. She will be dearly missed by all of us.
Kerry Boisvert says
My thoughts are with Jordon and the rest of the family .Rene and I became friends in High School and through 4-H. Even though we lived miles apart our friendship continued with many phone calls and my trips back to Baker. We both loved dogs and that shared interest was a continuing bond. RIP and meet all your lovely BC’s at the rainbow bridge.
Doug and Randi Wenz says
Jordan and family, Wea are sorry for your loss, Rene will always be remembered for her warm smile and kind words when would see her. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
maryj willard says
Rene was one of the greats. She always had a warm smile and a kind word. Prayers for her family members.
.
Mike & Judy Toennis Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families.
Peggy and Chuck Steadman says
Thinking of you and your family, played bridge with your Mom and so enjoyed it!
Charles Oster says
The last time I was home, I had a really good visit with Rene at the Museum. She told me all about the Collies she was Raising and we discussed the training and time she was putting into them. I’m so glad I got to visit with her.
Growing up she had some of the most memorable car parties and New Year’s Eve parties including coordinating the annual nut fry.
My prayers and condolences go out to her family.
Melinda Tangen says
Betty, I am so sorry about the loss of your sister. May your family find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time.
Laurel Redmond Main says
I will always remember Rene’s contagious laughter that could be heard above many conversations. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
John and Rena Medearis says
I was impressed with Rene’s talent in training her border collies! May the Lord bless you during this difficult time! Praying for the family. John and Rena Medearis
Cass & Tandi Jesperson says
LaBree and Frye Families,
We are so sorry for your loss. Rene was so kind, caring and talented at everything she did. She will be greatly missed. Praying for you all during this time.
barbara and Jerry Mickell says
What a terrible loss of such a wonderful person, our hearts go out to you. I’m sorry we will not be able to be there for you on thursday or Friday.
Janice M Markuson says
Milton and Janice Markuson says
We were very sorry to hear of Rene’s death. She fought hard for her life. May she be at peace now. She will be missed so much by her family, friends, neighbors, and all those she met through her Dog Shows and trials. Much admired for all of her talents in photography, gardening, framing. Just to mention a few. I have a picture framed by her that I treasure. Our thoughts have been, and still are with all of you. In sympathy
Tamara Choat says
I just wanted to share my first memory of Rene. I have always thought she and my mom, Debbie Beardsley, shared many resemblances. I remember as a very young child wandering around at some event looking for my mom, and I saw the back of her head, and went up to her and hugged her leg. To my surprise, it wasn’t my mom, but Rene. I can still hear that beautiful laugh as she looked down at this little girl grabbing her leg. I was so embarrassed but she was very gracious. I always knew Rene growing up, but I’m so thankful I had the chance to get to know her better over the last few years as she put on her dog trials. She will be greatly missed.
Nyla Cook Morris says
Jordan, Buddy & Lee I am so sorry for your loss of your wife, Jordan, and your Mom, Buddy & Lee. I didn’t know Rene, but her Mom Ethel and My Mom Phyllis were high school friends. I am also a LaBree cousin as we share the same great grandparents. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your families. Nyla Cook Morris
Kurt & Julie Collins says
Lee, Cam and family,
So sorry for the loss of your Mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Loyal and Sharon Kauffman and family says
So sorry for your loss. I know that you’ve helped take such good care of her, and that you will miss her a lot! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.