Catherine (Schafnitz) Jones

Catherine (Schafnitz) Jones passed away March 2, 2015, in her home, surrounded by her loving family. Catherine was 98 years old (or 97 years, depending on which birthday is used). She was born on Aug. 12, 1916 (or May 25, 1917), in Dickinson, N.D. No matter what date is celebrated, Mom delighted in having "two birthdays" parties a year with her family and friends. Catherine was raised on a small farm in Shepherd, thinning sugar beets and working in the "Cannery" as a young girl. She always talked about her horseback rides from Garden Avenue to Garfield School, carrying raw potatoes in her pocket that the janitor baked in the school's boiler unit for her lunch. Catherine met her soulmate, Grant "Buck" Jones, and was married Nov. 17, 1934. They celebrated 69 wonderful years before his death on Jan. 30, 2004. She spent her lifetime as a loving daughter of Frank and Susanna Schafnitz; sister to Joe, Frank (Belva), Matt John (Myrt) Schafnitz and Irene (Peter) Bach, who all preceded her in death. She was Mother to surviving children, Barbara (Wayne) Premo, Billings, James (Kitty) Kehrwald Jones, Bozeman, and Patricia (Donald) Meyer, Helena; and an infant daughter, Trudy Irene, who died at birth in 1945. Her life was further enhanced by the birth of her 10 grandchildren, who survive her: Trudy (Troy) Cozzens, Colstrip; Bobbie Ann (Greg) Carbery, Tri-City, Wash.; Kim Premo, Billings; James (Holly) Jones, Billings; Janeen (Hugh) Brookie, Saco; Wayne Premo Jr., Billings; Janet (Tracy) Prescott, Belgrade; Donald (Vicki) Meyer, Helena; Timothy (Lisa) Premo, Rapid City, S.D.; John (Karen) Jones, Phoenix. In later years, her life was fulfilled by the addition of 34 great-grandchildren, 51 great-great-grandchildren and one great-great-great-granddaughter, Ofelia, all whom survive her. An additional great-great-grandson, Wesley, is due in July. She was looking forward to his birth. Catherine was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Kevin. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who added much love and enjoyment to her life by their visits, cards and phone calls. "Mom, you never forgot a birthday or anniversary; your cards and unconditional love will be missed by us all." In memory of Catherine, please make donations or memorials to St. Pius X Church, RiverStone Hospice, Senior Meals on Wheels or a charity of your choice. Viewing will be from noon to 7 p.m. Monday, March 9, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson, with a vigil at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 10, at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens.