Lydia Papka

Lydia Papka, 87, of Billings, died peacefully on July 9, 2016, surrounded by her family.

Lydia Mae Ruff was born on April 29, 1929, in Billings. She grew up on the family farm and attended Garfield School. She married the love of her life, Marvin Papka, on Feb. 11, 1950. They were married 33 years until Marvin passed. They bought their home on Judith Lane, where they lovingly raised four children, and where she lived for 54 years. Since then, she blessed residents of Central Court Apartments and The Vista at Mission Ridge with her friendship and humor.

Lydia was known for a mischievous sense of humor and her cooking and baking. She loved playing cards and bingo and morning coffee klatch. Marvin and Lydia were founding members of St. Bernard's Catholic Church, where she was active with a women's group. She loved traveling, camping and embroidery. Most important to Lydia was her marriage, her family and friends. Her final words were to express her love for others.

Lydia is preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; her son, Darrel; and infant son, Richard. She is survived by sons, Larry and Robert; daughter, Kathleen; and an "adopted" daughter, Debbie Arnold; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from noon to 3 p.m. Friday, July 15, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, followed by rosary at St. Bernard's Parish at 5:30 p.m. The funeral will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 16, at St. Bernard's, followed by a lunch reception. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Special thanks to all at The Vista and St. Vincent Hospital for their extraordinary compassion and care.