Joseph E. Lablance

Joseph E. LaBlance, 87, passed away March 21, 2008 in Bozeman as a result of a heart attack. Joe had lived in Bozeman the last two years to be closer to his granddaughter and those who could help him. He was born September 5, 1921 in Oskaloosa, Louisiana to Edward and Paula (Yellowcloud) LaBlance. Joe spent his working years as an over-the-road truck driver. However, perhaps his favorite work was after retirement when he cared for the Farmers Union Campground in the Little Belt Mountains in the summer and hauled sugar beets in North Dakota in the fall. He married Mary #8220;Vivian#8221; Gourneau on June 11, 1957. In 1958, Joe and Vivian were gifted with a son. His family, and most particularly his grandchildren, will remember his sense of humor and great storytelling. He was preceded in death by his wife Vivian, who died in 2005, and son; John LaBlance. He is survived by his grandchildren, Jami Sanddal of Manhattan, Montana, Renee VerKoutereu of Poway, California, John LaBlance, Ray J LaBlance, and Keith LaBlance, all of Louisiana. Our dad, grandfather, and friend will be greatly missed by those who loved him. A memorial service for Joe will be held at St. Joseph Parish in Great Falls, Thursday April 3, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon afterward at the St. Joe#8217;s Parish Center. Memorials may be made in his name to: The Critical Illness and Trauma Foundation, 2075 Charlotte St., Bozeman MT 59718 Condolences to the family may be made online at www.dahlcares.com