Emma M. (Elges) Ellison

Emma Marie Ellison, 86, of Livingston, Montana passed away on Friday, October 23, 2015 after a short illness. At the time of her death, Emma was a resident of Elsies Assisted Living in Belgrade, Montana. A brief graveside service will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, Oct. 31st, at the Mountain View Cemetery in Big Timber with a Formal Celebration of Life to follow in the spring of 2016. Emma was born on February 6, 1929 at the family ranch near McLeod, Montana. She was the youngest of 11 children born to her parents, William and Emma (Kruse) Elges. Emma received her early education in a school house built on the ranch property; she completed her elementary and high school education in Livingston. After graduation from Park County High School in 1946, Emma became one of the first employees of KPRK radio station. In 1948, Emma married Orval Ellison. The couple began married life in a ranch in Paradise Valley, but later took over the family property on the West Boulder River near McLeod. Emma had a lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. Although she never fulfilled this goal, she had a natural affinity for animals. She loved her red angus cattle, and always took special care of any orphan calves. Until her late 70s, Emma always drove out to check on the cows, sometimes in very steep terrain, and always accompanied by at least one dog. Emma was an accomplished baker and seamstress. One year, Emma and a friend made 26 snowflake and 26 candy cane costumes for her daughters dance class. Emma was never quite as enthusiastic about sewing after that. When Orval decided to run for the State Legislature, Emma became a tireless campaigner. During the 18 years that Orval was in the legislature, the couple made many lasting friendships. Emma enjoyed being part of the Legislative Wives (Spouses) group which met during legislative sessions. She was always happy to come back home to the ranch. Emma was active in several organizations; one of her favorites was the Big Timber Legion Auxiliary, in which she served as president. Emma is survived by her daughter, Kathi and son-in-law Kent Hanawalt of Shields Valley and 1825 Swingley Rd., McLeod 59052, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Orval in 1998, and was the last surviving sibling of the Elges family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Livingston Public Library; 228 West Callender St.; Stafford Animal Shelter ; 3 Boulder Business Park Rd. or to an organization of the donors choice. Arrangements are under the care of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory.