Lenore Kobold Johnson

Lenore Agnes Kobold Johnson was born Dec. 28, 1927, to Elmer "Slim" and Rose Kobold in Sheridan, Wyo. She was raised alongside five siblings on a ranch near Kirby, Mont., now Rosebud Battlefield State Park.

Lenore attended Big Bend School in Kirby and Johnson County High School in Buffalo, Wyo. At the age of 17, she set out by train to Madison, Wis., to attend Edgewood College where she earned an Associate's Degree. Lenore graduated from the University of Montana in 1949 with Bachelor's degrees in English, History and Education. Her career as an educator began at Broadview High School, where she taught for three years. Lenore contributed as the high school's volleyball coach, sponsor of the school paper and annual, and coordinated school dances. In the midst of those years, Lenore met Clifford Johnson. They married on April 14, 1951 at Holy Name Church in Sheridan, Wyo.

Lenore was blessed with eight children. She made her home in Laurel, and later Billings, where she made lifelong friendships, played pinochle with neighbors and participated in the Home Demonstration Club. A devout Catholic, she was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, President of the Legion of Mary, and participated in the Cursillo, Junior Women's Club, and the Altar Society. Lenore was an advocate for political causes, as Chairwoman of the Yellowstone Democratic Committee she campaigned for candidates, registered voters, and remained a lifelong Democrat.

As her children grew, Lenore was active at Canyon Creek School, Billings Central Catholic High School and Holy Rosary Church. She corrected papers for Senior High School and worked for Surgical Associates and Banker's Life & Casualty Company. In 1974, Lenore opened The Winemaker, where she crafted many varieties of wine. The high price of sugar forced the shop to close in the late 70's, so she began to pursue her passion for collecting and selling antiques. Lenore hosted booths at the Great American Bazaar, Depot Antique Mall, and owned and operated Rose Petal Antiques, retiring in 1999. She moved to Central Court Village and enjoyed weekly art classes and bingo with Doris and other friends. Lenore transferred to Highgate Senior Living where she received compassionate care, enjoyed activities and camaraderie with fellow residents.

Lenore and her siblings, following in their parents' footsteps, were active in the preservation of their family homestead, the Rosebud Battlefield State Park, which was proclaimed a National Historic Landmark in 2008.

Lenore was greeted at the gates of heaven by her parents, daughter Michelle, brothers George and Elmer (Diana) Kobold, sisters Mary Joan McKennan and Dolores Burley. She is survived by her sister Kathleen Skelton (Bob), and her children, Michael, Rocci, (Dick) Dufenhorst, Mark (Rita), Bill, Patrice (Ray) O'Loughlin, Marilinn (Michael) Roseborough, Denise Smith, 27 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

Lenore's Vigil Service is at 7:00 p.m. Thursday March 31 at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 Friday, April 1 at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Rite of Committal, St. Anthony Cemetery, Laurel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Lenore's name to the St. Labre Indian School.

Rest in Peace, Mom!