Barbara Johnson Buda was born in 1930, the daughter of Lloyd and Grace (West) Johnson in Helena at St. Peters Hospital on December 14.
She died at home, September 26, after a long battle with Cancer.
Barbara attended schools in Helena and graduated from Helena High School in 1948. She also attended Montana State College. Her working life took her from 10 years in the hardware business, a stint with the county treasurer’s office, and finally spent about 20 years working for the Legislative Council as printing and distribution supervisor.
In 1952 she met the love of her life, Casmir (Casey) Thomas Buda, and they were married in the St. Helena Cathedral in 1953. They were married for 41 years until Casey’s death in 1994. They lived in Helena for most of their married life except for 4 years in Denver and a few months in New York City where Casey’s telephone career took him. After 13 years of marriage a son Tony joined the family.
Barbara joined St. John’s Lutheran Church in 1950 where she sang in the choir for many years, served on the council and belonged to the Junior Guild. She was affiliated with the Elks Lodge #193, PEO Chapter AO, the Green Meadow Country Club and the Friendship Force. She was part of the fabric of Helena.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and brother’s Ed and Buzz. She is survived by son Tony and wife Gayle and 4 grandchildren, Nicklaus, Case, Sean and Thomas. Her extended family included her nieces Kathy Buda, Marcae Lucich, Cheryl Evans, Susan Hill; her Sisters-in-law Cookie Wozniak, Wenona Johnson, and her dear friend and traveling companion, Joan McCracken.
A funeral service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1000 Helena Ave., Helena, followed by a lunch at Green Meadow Country Club, 2720 Country Club Ave., Helena with a private graveside interment for family. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Hospice of St. Peter’s, 7475 Broadway Helena, MT 59601. Local arrangements have been entrusted to ASW Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Ken and Jan Olson says
My husband and I were long time members of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Helena. When we joined, Barb was one of the first to welcome us. We also sang in the choir with her for many years. Barb was an awesome lady, always with a smile and welcoming spirit. She was so easy to be around, and even when we relocated and came back to visit, she was always there to greet us with hugs and always interested in our lives. A remarkable lady and one who left a legacy. She will be missed!
Condolances,
Ken and Jan Olson
Therese Terns says
My prayerful support is with all of Barb’s family and friends, especialy today, Friday, October 1 as you gather together to celebrate a truly remarkable woman. I have met Barb, but I truly know Barb through her niece Kathy Buda, who deeply loved and cherished her relationship with her “Auntie Barbara”.
“There she is gone” from this world but closer to all who loved her more than ever before.
Love & peace,
Therese Terns
Edward Felton says
Am so sorry to hear of Barb’s death.While we didn’t see each other very often, I always enjoyed the opportunities when we did. I am a cousin of Barb’s mother and we had lots of fun when the Johnson family visited us on the farm and in later years at family gatherings. Barb was truly a lovely lady. God Bless & rest in peace.
Arlene Bailey Hunt says
To Barbara’s family, she was a very nice lady. I knew her from school days and spoke with her on several occassions. All my prayers and thoughts are with you, she will be missed by all who knew her.
Mary Lou Jorns says
To all of you, we all loved and enjoyed your dear Barbara. Blessings to you in your sadness.