Leona Sorensen

Leona Sorensen

Leona Agnes (Belschner) Sorensen of Big Sandy, Mont., passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012, due to complications from surgery for colon cancer.

She was born on Nov. 2, 1929, to Charles and Clara Belschner and grew up in Eagle Creek. She graduated from Big Sandy High School and was a lifelong fan of the Pioneers. On June 21, 1947, she married Leonard Marinus Sorensen, and they began building a life together on their farm near Verona. They worked side by side for 51 years until his death in 1999.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Pamela; her husband, Leonard; and her parents, Charles and Clara Belschner.

She is survived by four of their children, Donald Sorensen of Virgelle, Mont., Bonnie (Paul) O'Gorman and Kenneth (Linda) Sorensen of Big Sandy, Mont., and Arleen (Allen) Sawitzke of Salt Lake City, Utah. Leona is also survived by her grandchildren, Lisa (Jaci) Ameer, Amy Nelson, Kyle Sorensen, Natacha (Scott) Bird, Tom O'Gorman, Samantha O'Gorman, Allison (Brandon) McCoy, Heidi (Marcus) Theissen and Brian Sawitzke. Her great-grandchildren include Brandon Bird, Jacob Fiefield, Akili Ameer, Hannah South, Madeline Hermes, Devin McCoy and Ellie McCoy. Many, many other children have lovingly called her Grandma over the years.

Leona lived every day of her life to the fullest. Many will miss her mischievous personality, her home-cooked and home-canned goodies, her wonderfully sewn gifts and her wisdom. May she rest in peace.

Mass will be celebrated in her honor at St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church in Big Sandy at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 7, 2012. Friends may also pay their respects at the church one hour prior to the service. Donations in her memory may be made to the charity of one's choice. Services and arrangements have been entrusted to Holland & Bonine Funeral Home.