Waneeta Lee Brockel Farris died July 15, 2017. She was born August 21, 1947 to William and Neoma Brockel. She was raised on the family farm in the Howard Valley. As a young girl, she participated in 4-H and enjoyed a typical childhood on the farm.
Waneeta enjoyed raising her sons, Richard and Chad. She owned a flower and fabric shop for several years in Forsyth. She started a career at Montana Bank in 1983 and retired as bank president from Wells Fargo in 2004. She was actively involved in the Forsyth Community.
A large and wonderful part of her life was her grandchildren. She cherished every moment with them, especially making candy with them. Waneeta loved to travel and was an excellent cook and baker. She was an avid gardener, enjoyed making wedding dresses, and arranging flowers. Her special gift was writing poems. She has volumes of poems written for special people and events in her life.
She bravely fought Parkinson’s disease for over 20 years and would want to thank all of those that helped make her battle a little easier.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband, Virgil Farris; sons, Richard (Ana) Thompson of Forsyth, Montana and Chad (Sharon) Thompson of San Diego, California; grandchildren: Noah Thompson, Cody Thompson, Jacob Thompson, Kira Thompson, Levi Watson, and Trevor Watson; and sisters: Jean (David) Schmittou, Willa Arbogast, and Shelley (Dick) Thompson.
Cathy Byron says
Todd, Chad, Willa and Shelly –
I am saddened to read of Waneeta’s passing. We first met over bolts of beautiful fabric in her store near the KoKoMo. What wonderful quality she stocked, and how beautifully she sewed! In her role as President (local CEO?) of the Montana Bank in Forsyth, she helped our family more than once through some tough times. Her smile and words of encouragement were heartfelt and deeply appreciated. Our community lost a champion with her passing. My heart and prayers are with each of you.
Laura and Monty Monasmith says
Uncle Virgil: I am saddened to hear of Waneeta’s passing. We had no idea she was so sick. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Laura and Monty
Donna McAllister Deisher says
So sorry to hear Waneeta passed away. I had no idea she wasn’t well. We went to school together. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.
Betty D says
I am so sorry for your loss. May the words of our loving heavenly Father bring your family comfort and strength during this most difficult time as He promises to bring our loved ones back to life in a perfect world where there will be no more suffering or death (John 5:28-29 & Revelation 21:4).
Debi Rapstad says
I was so worry to hear about Waneeta. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to Waneeta’s wonderful family. May you find comfort in knowing others are thinking of, and praying for you, at this difficult time. May you find comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of this truly great lady. We all remember her beautiful spirit, her giving heart, and the many lives she touched in her lifetime. She will be greatly missed by the Forsyth community.
Brenda Miller says
Uncle Virgil and family- I am so sorry to hear of Waneeta’s passing- she was a wonderful, loving and beautiful lady. My thoughts and prayers are with her and all of her loved ones , I hope that the happy memories of her will help you through your mourning- love Brenda Johnson- Miller
Jamie Cox says
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Waneeta was a wonderful lady, beautiful smile, amd wonderful spirit. The poem she wrote for my grandma was so beautiful. Take care of yourselves.
Carolyn Hays says
Uncle Virgil, I am so sorry to hear about Waneeta. I had no idea she had health problems other than the Parkinsons. I can’t imagine how heart sick you and your family must be right now. May God be with all of you now in your time of sorrow and may you find peace in your memories. I will see you Friday to give you a hug in person. Thinking of you dear uncle. Cooky
Ray and Karen Pellant says
We are so sorry for your loss.
Signe Andrashie says
100 W Chapelwood ST
Charlie and Terri Brown says
Charlie and I send our heartfelt condolences. Waneeta was a lovely gal. Love and prayers to her family.
Sharon Wetsch says
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Hugs and prayers to all of the family.
Judy Kline says
Virgil and boys~ I am so sorry to hear about Waneeta passing away. We were good friends in high school. Dave is my brother. Have you all in my thoughts and prayers. Judy Kline
Rob Stephens says
Waneeta was so classy and caring. Loved working with her personally and for Range
Shanna Lisa Traylor says
My condolences to the family, she will be missed. My love and prayers to her family and friends. Rest In Peace and may your memory live in their hearts forever.
Deb Piseno-Rappe says
So sorry to hear the sad news. Waneeta was a remarkable woman. I highly respected her. Rest in peace and may God comfort her family.
Robert Smith and Barbara says
Rest In Peace. Robert and Barbara Langemo Smith. Jamul CA.