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BORN
1937
DIED
2024
Bernice Bjertness Obituary
Bernice was born November 13, 1937, to Richard and Margit (Arthun) Boylan, in Fishtail, MT. She graduated from Columbus High School and then went on to attend college at Montana State University and graduated with a degree in Nursing.
While completing her nursing clinicals in Billings, she met the love of her life Donald Bjertness in January of 1961. On their way to Red Lodge to go skiing, Don proposed. Bernice and Don were married at American Lutheran Church in Billings, MT on July 2, 1961. Their faith in God was the foundation to a beautiful marriage. From this union two daughters were born, Kristen and Ann. Upon Don's death, they had been married 54 years.
Bernice returned to school completing her master's degree in nursing and then became the Director of Big Sky Hospice. Upon Mom's retirement, Mom and Dad travelled the US and abroad, visiting family and friends and just enjoyed being together.
Bernice was a great friend to many. Mom loved singing in church choir, playing the piano, painting, serving on numerous boards throughout the years, touring the countryside, spending time with her Mission Ridge friends and she loved cookies! Mom would never pass up a cookie and a cup of coffee.
Bernice is survived by Kristen and Lonnie Hanson, Halstad, MN, Ann Bjertness, Bellingham, WA, grandsons Kristopher Brohaugh, Climax, MN and Kolton Brohaugh, Dallas, TX. Hanson grandchildren Ben (Renee), Abby (Cullen), Lydia (Nick), Mike (Julia), Brad (Jalyn) and 10 great grandchildren, plus seven nieces and nephews.
A memorial celebration service will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 10:30am at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 4125 Grand Ave., Billings, MT. Interment following the service at the Rosebud Cemetery in Absarokee. In lieu of flowers a memorial can be made to King of Glory Lutheran Church, St. John's United, 3940 Rimrock Rd., Billings, MT 59102, or a charity of one's choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernice Bjertness
6 Entries
Mary Grau Carlson
June 7, 2024
I worked with Bernice at Big Sky Hospice. As a Patient Care Coordinator, she was a tremendous support of the decisions I made. As a result, I felt that she "had my back".
Joan (Heisler) Micheletti
June 6, 2024
Your mom was an intelligent and fun lady. I remember the hours she and I spent on the phone as we discussed Sunday School and life. She established relationships wherever she went. What a beautiful and kind soul!
Carol Heath
June 6, 2024
My husband, Chuck Heath, knew Bernice through Billings Clinic and really respected her mission as a nurse.
Carol Jansons
June 5, 2024
Bernice lived next door to me in the dorm at Eastern Montana College, always was happy& cheerful & fun person to know even back in those days. Also knew her at Columbus High. Lovely & fun. I m sorry we lost touch but great to know she lived a wonderful life w/ beautiful family. & a loving husband & partner.
Carol Scovill
June 5, 2024
Bernice was one of my favorite people. She always had a kind word and a smile for you even when she did not feel that great. When my parents moved into Mission Ridge, she made sure to welcome them and let the know that she was my friend. Miss her, but know she is in a good place now.
Laurie Townsend
June 5, 2024
Want to express my condolences to the family. Bernice was a great story teller andlovely lady. Enjoyed working with her. She was my Dir @ Big Sky Hospice and prior to that also hired me @ Medicaid Waiver. Please take care , Laurie Townsend
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