Evelyn J. Schwartz

Evelyn J. Schwartz, 92, formerly of Big Sandy, passed away on Monday, Nov. 12, 2012, at Riverside Health Care Center in Missoula, of natural causes. Graveside services will be held at 10 a. m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012, at Big Sandy Cemetery. A gathering of friends will be held at Christ Lutheran Church at 10:30 a. m., following the graveside services. The family has requested that any memorials be made in Evelyn's name to Christ Lutheran Church in Big Sandy, the Big Sandy Senior Center, or the charity of the donor's choice. Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Evelyn was born on July 6, 1920, in Havre to Otto and Mathilda (Petrus) Hertsgaard. She was raised in Gildford, attending school there. After graduation, she married Robert Schwartz Sr., and the couple made their home in Havre for a short time, and then moved to Big Sandy. Evelyn worked as a bookkeeper at the Big Sandy Medical Center for 27 years, and while the couple lived there, she attended Christ Lutheran Church in Big Sandy. In 2009, she moved to Missoula to be near her daughter. She enjoyed playing cards, crocheting, flower gardening and reading, and always looked forward to attending the Big Sandy Senior Center to socialize with friends. Her family was a huge part of her life, and she was very devoted to them all. She was a quiet woman, but she had many friends, and will be greatly missed.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Schwartz Sr. in 1996; her three sons, Robert Schwartz Jr., Richard Schwartz and Ralph Schwartz; her sister, Ottis Hertsgaard; and her brother, James Hertsgaard.

She is survived by her daughter, Sondra (Don) Hanson of Missoula; her son, Bruce Schwartz of Helena; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews, including her special niece, Terry (Brian) Lilletvedt of Havre; and her special nephew, Tom (Jeannie) Hertsgaard of California.