June Julia Kratochvil

June Kratochvil, 93, passed peacefully on Oct. 21, 2024, while surrounded by family, at her home in Billings. She was a longtime resident of Pompeys Pillar before moving to Billings in 1992. June was born on June 23, 1931, in Pompeys Pillar, the fifth child to Remi and Etta Mae Strobbe.

On Nov. 16, 1950, June married the love of her life, Joseph, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. They were blessed with four children: Terry, Karen, Michele and John. June was a member of St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church (Pompeys Pillar and Ballantine) until moving to Billings, where she became a member of St. Bernard’s Parish and Altar Society. June also was a member of “Hobby Club,” many card groups throughout the years, and bowling teams.

June is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, of 59 ½ years; her only sister, Doris Soelter; and brothers Adi, Rudy, Augie, Harry and Harold Strobbe. She is survived by her brother Bob (Helen).

June graduated from Huntley Project High School in 1948. She was a beautician in Bozeman prior to marrying Joe. June continued doing hair for neighbors in her and Joe’s home while raising her children. June worked at Huntley Project High School as a Home Ec Aide until aide positions were eliminated. She then worked at Pfaff in Billings until joining the Bernina team.

June is survived by her children, Terry (Cindy) of St. Johns, Florida, Karen (Gary) Hutchinson of Rathdrum, Idaho, Michele (Joe) Trottier of Billings and John (Paula) Kratochvil of Billings. June’s memory will be carried on by her grandchildren: Joey (Nicole) Trottier, Casey (Katie) Hutchinson, Ryan (Erin) Kratochvil, Luke McMillan, Tyler Trottier, Kiel (Kaylin) Hutchinson, Scott (Kimmy) Kratochvil, Michael (Huong) Kratochvil, Kendra Hutchinson and Cole (Brittney) Kratochvil; and her nine great-grandchildren: Easton, Cora, Haidyn, Bridger, Caeden, Brooklyn, Sawyer, Brody and Shania.

Memorials may be made to Compassus Hospice. The family of June Kratochvil would like to thank the staff of Compassus Hospice, especially Ashley, Laura, Kathy and Kitty. We also want to thank Bernie Trottier Vaughn for being Mom’s caregiver during her last days, as well as the members of St. Bernard’s for their prayers.

Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at St. Bernard’s Parish, 226 Wicks Lane. Funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15, at St. Bernard’s Parish.