Erma Ann (Christianson) Bauder

Erma Ann (Christianson) Bauder was the first born to Alma and Ernie Christianson on December 19, 1943. Erma had 5 siblings: Al, Ron, Bill, Verna, and Martha. From a young age Erma took a leading role in her family to help establish and develop her siblings. She even cut her schooling short to help raise her brothers and sisters. She married Richard Bauder in her hometown of Great Falls on February 28, 1961, and they were married for 54 years until Richard passed in 2015. They built their lives on the flood plains of Great Falls southwest side. Erma gave strength and joy to anyone who knew her. She cared for her family and friends and always paid close attention to what people needed. She treated everyone with respect and tenderness. Erma passed away on June 4, 2021. Erma grew up in a time when women were not typically appreciated for the value they could bring to the economy. However, her strong will drove her to find employment at King’s Hill Cafeteria (now called Showdown). Then she worked at Park Place Nursing home for 12 years where she earned her dietary technician certificate and cooked everything from scratch. There is a good chance if you have been to Borrie’s Supper Club that you would have eaten food prepared by Erma. She worked at Borrie’s for 35 years where she felt and was treated like part of the family. She helped build an atmosphere with the staff that was focused on hard work and cheerful attitudes. Some people loved her cooking so much that they would pay close attention to her schedule. Erma’s love for feeding people quality food was a pillar of her life. Erma’s philosophy was conscientious work, honesty, and truth. One of her quotes for maintaining her home was “I do what I can, and that’s one thing I can do” so she always had flowers growing around her porch. Her work ethic was passed along to her family and friends. She was a dedicated member of Sons of Norway where she helped make Lefse and special meatballs called Vikings. Selling these treats would help fund community donations and maintain the organization. She was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church. Erma is preceded in death by her son, Keith (at 2-1/2 years old); daughter, Judy (last year); husband, Richard; brother, Al; and sister, Martha. She is survived by her sister, Verna Wade who lived with Erma for these last four years; brothers, Bill and Ron; sister-in-law, Jean; nieces and nephews, Curtis (wife Melissa, daughter Zoe), Jan, Roy, Ryan, Patrick, Pearl, Jereck, and many more in Wyoming, Washington, South Dakota, and Minnesota. Erma was a foundational element to our family, and we will miss her dearly and remember her lovingly. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help Erma’s family with expenses. https://gofund.me/67d8eb4d