Helen J. Clark

On Oct. 7, 2009, at the age of 87, our beloved and special mother honey, grandma and great-grandmother went home to be with our Lord. By some great-grandchildren, she was known simply as Booka-Baga. Anyone that knew our mom knows that she is helping with all the little children in Heaven with her caring hands.

She was born Helen Janich on Aug. 1, 1922, in the Bull Mountains at her family home. Her parents were Peter and Helen Janich of Yugoslavian descent, coming from the old country, which Mom was very proud of. Mom was one of 11 children, going to a country school and later graduating from Klein High School as valedictorian in 1941. Helen married Lester George Stovall on May 29, 1943. To this union of 36 years, six children were born.

Our angel spent the early years raising her children, cooking for ranch-hands and racing horses. She lived in Musselshell and Custer, and various ranches throughout Southeastern Montana. Later, she moved with her family to Troy. While there, Mom continued to be a stay-at-home mom, caring not only for her own, but all the neighbor children as well. As her children grew older, Mom went to work at the IGA in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.

In 1977, Mom moved to Billings to be closer to her older children, attending Billings Business College, where she graduated at the top of her class. Mom worked for Globe Life Insurance as office manager for 12 years. During this time, she met and married Kenneth Clark, spending a lot of time traveling and sightseeing. Mom was always up for a game of pinochle, going out dancing, talking with family and friends over a cup of coffee and sharing a good joke or two. A country girl at heart, she loved fishing, going to brandings, rodeos and viewing the beautiful Montana landscape while going on drives. Mom was a lifelong supporter of the democratic party. As a Denver Broncos fan, she watched every game she could. She faced hardships with dignity, grace and forgiveness. She was a member of good standing with Eastern Star, Chapter 91, of Musselshell for 50-plus years, being a past Worthy Matron. Mom enjoyed the fellowship and friendship very much that she received from Eastern Star. She loved spending time with her children, but most of all, she loved watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow up, as they were her pride and joy.

She was preceded in death by her husbands; her parents; nine siblings, Mike, Steve, Amelia, George, Mary, Emil, Peter, Nick and Annie; and her son Justin.

Mom is survived by two sons, Tobin Stovall of Palmer, Alaska, and Gilbert Stovall of Moyie Springs, Idaho; three daughters, Cheryl (Blaine) Purington, Alta (Jack) Gallagher, both of Billings, and Rhea (Spencer) Kehler of Fort Smith; her grandchildren, Jodie Stovall, Jennifer Gauger, Ben Stovall, Nadine Purington, Erika Willis, Sharesse Edwards, Ryan Stovall, Ethan Stovall, Levi Kinn, LaRiesha Hagel and Madison Kehler. In addition, Mom had 11 great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jessica, Destiny, Cambria, Garret, Skyler, Justin, Alexis, Eduun, Latten and Landin; her sister Laura Harris; sister-in-law and best friend of 75 years, Alberta Janich; as well as "strena" (Aunt) to numerous nieces and nephews.

Furthermore, she had many cousins and friends, all considered to be her "favorites."

We will miss your virtuous ways, compassion for others, love of children and your never-ending love for all.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. A reception will follow at the Masonic Center on 1101 Broadwater Ave.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Rocky Mountain Hospice or Eagle Cliff Manor. Remembrances may be shared with the family at www.michelottisawyers.com.