Paula Michael Mjelstad

A beautiful and loving person left us on May 20, 2024. Paula Michael Mjelstad passed away after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was born on June 15, 1961, in Columbus, to William and Joan Michael. She grew up in Laurel and graduated from Laurel High School. Soon after, she made the big move to Billings and worked various retail jobs, making new friends along the way.

In June of 1987, she met Jeff, the love of her life while vacationing in Arizona. Once back from vacation, she told one of her best friends that she thinks she met the man she was going to marry. Jeff felt the same way and soon moved back to Montana. From there, they were inseparable. On Sept. 9, 1989, they were joined in marriage.

From that marriage, they raised three fabulous children (Chris, Nick and Maddie). Although, Paula did most the raising. Jeff was just the disciplinarian. She was fortunate enough to be able to stay home and raise them until they got older. After that, she went to work as an office manager for 14 years. Many memorable years were spent traveling to watch the kids in baseball, basketball and dance. Giving them support in everything they did.

Once retired, she joined a bowling league with some friends, got involved in the Yellowstone Republican Women’s, became a Trump fan, vacationed and started golfing more.

Paula’s true joy in life was watching her children grow and seeing them become loving and responsible adults. She was so proud of each of them for who they were and who they’ve become. She was the “glue” that held the family together. Her love, encouragement and listening ear will be deeply missed. Her infectious smile and cackle always brightened up anyone’s day. Although too many tequila shots would made the cackle a little too loud.

Her most enjoyable time was when she got to spend it with her grandchildren. Reading with them, playing cars or just holding them gave her such joy. They lit up her world and she so dearly wanted to see them grow up.

There are no words to describe how much she will be missed. All we know is she made a lasting impression on many people throughout her life and she will be deeply missed by all. We love you!

Paula is survived by her husband and best friend, Jeff; her sons, Chris (Anna) and Nick (Megan); her daughter, Maddie (Carsen); her grandchildren Hudson, Sutton, Cora, Lila and Miller. She is also survived by her mom, Joanie; brothers Rob (Georgia), Matt (Susan); sisters Val and Mindy (Brian); her family of in-laws, mother-in-law Muriel, brother-in-law Mike and sisters-in-law Jodi (Tom) and Staci (Chad); along with numerous nieces, nephews and best friends. She was preceded in death by her dad William and father-in-law Bob.

A private family burial will be taken place. A celebration of life will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, at Hilands Golf Club.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Yellowstone Republican Women’s or to a charity of one’s choice.