Gerald “Joe” Gipe

Beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Gerald "Joe" Gipe, 78 of Billings, passed away on September 10, 2006, at St. Vincent Healthcare, due to complications from heart surgery.

Gerald was born in Great Falls, MT where he lived until he was drafted into the Army. Gerald met his lifelong sweetheart, Lois Nunley, when they were 15 & 16. They were married when they were 18 & 19. Lois continued to live in Great Falls until Gerald returned from the Army.

Gerald got work as a route salesman for Bon Ton Bakeries in Townsend where they lived until he was transferred to Bozeman and later to Billings. He worked for Bon Ton until they were purchased by Eddy's Bakeries, where he became the manager. He stayed at Eddy's Bakery for 31 years until they were purchased by Interstate Bakeries. He retired from the bakery and purchased Truckers Pro-Rate in 1979 with Howard and Lavern Cornish. Gerald and Lavern operated Truckers Pro-Rate until he finally retired for good in 1991.

Gerald will be remembered for the special love he had for his family and his sense of humor.

Gerald was preceded in death by his father, mother, two older brothers and his sweetheart, Lois in 2000. He is survived by his daughter, Terry (Curt) Pond, Sr.; son, Jerry (Leona) Gipe; grandchildren, Robert (Michelle), Chuck (Debbie), Justin (Leigh), Dave (Lexie) Cori (Ray), Curt, Jr. (Kori), Cord (Angie), Charity (Dave), Lyle (Tami) and Miffi (George); and 18 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M., on Thursday, September 14, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Billings. Immediately following the burial, friends are invited to Gerald's Home, 1744 Mariposa Lane, for a reception.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.