Eva Maye Braunberger

Eva Maye Braunberger, 86, of Great Falls, died of bone cancer Thursday, Feb. 21, at a Peace Hospice facility.



Memorial service is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 26, at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel with a reception following. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Conrad for anyone who wishes to accompany the processional. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.



Eva was born in 1926, in Conrad, and grew up on the family farm where she was the apple of her father's eye. In 1948, she married Wes Pearson who owned an electric shop and appliance store in Conrad. Three daughters were born before they packed up and moved to California. While in California, the family enjoyed showing horses, participating in parades and traveling to western riding events.



Montana was never far from their hearts and they returned annually to visit friends and family. When Wes and Eva divorced in 1967, Eva and Echo moved to Great Falls to be near family. Eva worked for many years at Gordon's Restaurant and Cascade Coach, where she was the quality control chief.



She married David Roland in 1975. David died suddenly in 1981. Eva later married Reuben Braunberger and moved to the home they built on the Dearborn. Here they lived comfortably along the beauty of the Missouri River Canyon. Eva and Reuben spent many wonderful winters in Arizona, but always returned to their beloved Montana.



In 2005, Eva and Reuben moved back to Great Fall due to Reuben's failing health. Reuben died quietly in 2007.



She met and became dear friends with Phil Thompson at the Family Fellowship Church. They enjoyed many trips together including those to Alaska and Hawaii. Phil was with her every day during the difficult last few weeks.



Eva will always be remembered for her fashion sense, her classic style and her clever wit. Remember her with a smile.



Eva is survived by her daughters, Echo (Ron) Ukrainetz of Great Falls and Faye Bradfield of Fayetteville, N.C.; very special friend, Phil Thompson of Great Falls; grandsons, John and David Romenesko, Tim Black, Frank, Mike and Tommi Bumpus.



She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Chester H. and Reva F. Thomas; brother, Chet Thomas Jr.; sister, Dorothea Thomas; and daughter, Grace DeeAnn Rowe.



Donations are suggested in her name to the CM Russell Acquisitions Fund, 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401, Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, 1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401 or Great Falls Education Foundation



Condolences for the family may be posted on line at www.schniderfuneralhome.com.