On September 10, 2011, our beloved mother Joan Wilkins Mager passed away peacefully in Helena. Joan was born on July 12, 1931, in Miles City, MT. to Sidney & Gertrude Vollin. She was preceded in death by her sister, Jean and brothers, Jack and Jay.
Joan married James W. Wilkins on March 25, 1949. They had three children: Jamie Dziak, Joy (Steve) Scott, and Jay C. (Valerie) Wilkins. She is also survived by grandchildren: Rae Lynn (Kenny) Nielsen, Krysta Dziak, Loren Wilkins, and Cody and Tyler Scott; and three great-grandchildren, Savanna McNellis, and Aidan and Leah Dials.
In 1959 the Wilkins family moved to Butte where Joan was actively involved with the Butte Junior Women’s Club and worked tirelessly on committees to get the necessary legislation passed for the seat belt law in the State of Montana.
In 1977, Joan and Jim retired and moved to Polson to their dream home on Flathead Lake, living there until Jim past away.
Years later Joan married Bob Mager. She and Bob traveled though out the United States until Bob passed in 2002. Shortly thereafter, Joan came to Helena to be closer to her family. She is fondly remembered for her positive outlook on life and her tireless generosity for others.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may by made directly to St. Peter’s Hospice.
A Funeral Liturgy is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at Retz Funeral Home Chapel with viewing and the family receiving friends beginning at 6:00 p.m. Coffee and cookies will follow the Liturgy at Retz. A private family burial will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 in Polson, MT. To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Joan, please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Bob & Pam O'Dell says
Jay, Jamie & Joy and families,
We were so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a very gracious and kind lady.
With sympathy
Bob & Pam O’Dell
Gayle Siemers says
Jay,Jamie,Joy. I’m sorry that I missed you all when you were in Polson. Your Mother was a great friend and I had such respect for her. There were times she gave me the guidance and support to get me through some of those tough times but always with a sense of humor and grace that it just didn’t seem to be that bad. I loved her spirit and it will never be forgotten as she will always have a special place in my heart. It is good that she is with your Father now and they are together again in the Lords hand. God Bless you all
Gayle
Audrey Blomquist says
Jamie:
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the love and support of friends comfort you. God Bless.