Eva Mae Van Arsdale

Eva Mae Van Arsdale met Jesus, her Savior, a goal she had been waiting on for 80 years, the morning of Sept. 13, 2015, passing away at TenderNest, where she had been residing for the last few months. Eva was born in Pueblo, Colo., on Nov. 25, 1926, to Glen Fowler Thompson and Francis (Miller) Thompson. She joined the family as the second child and first of three daughters. Her childhood was spent growing up in Missouri and Colorado, mostly in Pueblo, where even as a small child, she learned the value of work ethic and relationships by helping her family run the "camp," a local RV park. In August of 1950, Eva, a dashing newspaper reporter, went on a blind date where she met Jim Van Arsdale. After the movie, Jim said: "I travel a lot, but would like to see you again if that is okay." She accepted and by Christmas they were engaged. Eva and Jim were married in February 1951 and spent their honeymoon skiing the resorts of Colorado, Montana, Utah and Idaho. At one resort, they were the only ones skiing; the lifts were opened just for them to ski. Jim and Eva's marriage of 64 years was one of friendship, love, dedication and commitment to the Lord, themselves and their family. To this union, they raised three wonderful boys: Kim, Scott and Duane. Eva and Jim lived in several towns in Colorado, wherever Jim's work took them. In 1967, Jim was transferred to Billings, a move that was very difficult for Eva. The first year was extremely hard for her, being so far away from home and family, but soon Eva realized this was a wonderful place to be and raise her family. She often said moving to Billings was one of the best decisions she and Jim ever made. Not only was Eva there for her family, but also for the community and the church families she was a part of. She was involved with the local state (Colorado/Montana) and national mental health community. She helped for many years with the Walk to Emmaus events, creating lasting friendships. Eva was a co-chair on the committee who brought Billy Graham to the Metra, a huge event for our community. She volunteered at Billings Clinic, belonged to the PEO, was a board member of YBGR for many years, and belonged to many church groups. Last but not least, there was never a stranger to Eva; anyone she met was greeted and loved by her. Jim and Eva built a cabin in Red Lodge in 1979, where they had many fun family times. It also served as a retreat center for the many groups she participated in. It was often asked if she would ever retire to Red Lodge. The answer she gave: "We are so busy in Billings I don't think we could." Retirement did take Jim and Eva traveling to Israel, England, Holland and various places in the U.S. Eva has been preceded in death by her mother and father; a brother and sister; and numerous aunts and uncles. She is survived by her loving husband, Jim, of 64 years; sons Kim, Scott (Lyn) and Duane (Sarah); 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her sister, Doris Ann; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials can be made to the Mental Health Center of Billings, Emmanuel Baptist Church or a charity of your choice. The family would like to thank TenderNest and Rocky Mountain Hospice for taking care of Eva during her last months. A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Emmanuel Baptist Church. A private interment will be held in Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.