Joyce Eileen Ehlke passed away on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at home surrounded by family. She was 82 years old.
Joyce was born in Bantry, North Dakota on March 31, 1939 to Emery and Snjolaug (Hannesson) Torr. She was the oldest of five children. She grew up on the family dairy farm and attended school in Bantry and Upham, North Dakota. Joyce married Leon Ehlke on October 20, 1957 in Bantry. Joyce and Leon farmed and raised cattle on their farm in North Dakota until they moved to Helena, Montana in 1969 where they owned and operated Evergreen Trailer Court for many years. In 1978 they purchased land right next to the trailer court and raised a few head of cattle and a huge garden. After being there for many years they decided to purchase a small ranch in the north Helena Valley where they raised cattle until their retirement. Joyce also worked for Helena Abstract and Title Company for a number of years prior to her retirement.
Joyce had a life-long love of cattle and horses. One of her earliest memories was of her father handing her out of the car window to her grandfather on horseback. Joyce was an excellent cook and home canned food from her garden for her family to enjoy throughout the year. She was an accomplished seamstress having made clothing for her family and herself for many years. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed country music, especially the oldies.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Leon Ehlke, her parents Emery and Snjolaug Torr, baby sister Kathryn Torr, daughter-in-law Brigette Ehlke, and sister-in-law Meredith Torr.
Joyce is survived by her children Mark Ehlke (Della) of Townsend, Becky Miner (Gary) of Helena, Lisa Strauch (Lance) of Belgrade, Leanne Ehlke (Rich Waples) of Helena, and Matt Ehlke (Kim Ring) of Helena; brothers Donald Torr (Carolyn), Dale Torr (Ruth), Harvey Torr (Edna); grandchildren Jeni Hofer, Lacey Jepson, Janea Merkel, Mike Miner, Jason Miner, Jesse Miner, Mandy Miner, Jeremy Jenks, Fallon Stauch, Mackenzie Strauch, Lindsey Ehlke, and Blayne Ehlke; great grandchildren Dakotah Morlan, Blake Morlan, Era Miner, Sienna Mae Miner, Seely Shay Miner, Isabella Miner, Wyatt Miner, McCoy Merkel, and Maverick Merkel; and numerous nieces and nephews. Joyce was “mom” to many of her children’s friends growing up and later in life, including “bonus daughter” Kathy Gibbeson.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
1 p.m.
Sunday July 10, 2022
Summer Star Ranch
7451 Owl Gulch Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
1 p.m.
Sunday July 10, 2022
Summer Star Ranch
7451 Owl Gulch Road
Helena, Montana 59602
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LissaHuntington says
All my love to the Ehlke family-Lissa
Brenda Staley says
All my love and prayers for Mark, Becky, Lisa, Leanne & Matt. I always thought of your mom as an adopted mom for the past 40 years….I will never forget her, her smile and her laugh
Debby Brackman says
Dear Leanne, I am sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Peace & healing to you & yours.
Leanne Ehlke says
My memories of mom of out nightly talks before bed and how close we became, a relationship that was so very special and meant everything to me! I would’ve walked through fire for her! I miss you so very much and love you always and forever! ~ Leanne –
Roxianne Verworn says
Leanne, Lisa, Mark, Becky and Matt I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. Keep your memories close as they will help heal your heart. She will always be an angel on your shoulders and a special love in your hearts! My deepest sympathies to all of you. God Bless!
Mandie Driessen says
I am so very sorry for your loss. Joyce was one amazing woman, and a very dear person to me. Praying for you all during this time.
Jack Norris says
Sorry for your loss Leanne. Keep your head up and be strong for her knowing that she’s watching over you.
JoAnn Wood says
Dear Lisa and family I send my condolences. Your mother sounded like a remarkable woman. I’m sure all the good in her has been passed onto you. God Bless. JoAnn Wood
Crystal Lynch says
Leanne and family…much belated, just saw this. I’m so very sorry for your loss. May the precious memories keep and comfort you through this time. Thinking of you and praying God’s love will be with you all.