Eva Maye Braunberger

Eva Maye Braunberger, 86, of Great Falls, a homemaker, died of bone cancer Thursday, February 21, 2013, at a local Peace Hospice facility.A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel with a reception following. Inurnment will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Conrad for anyone who wishes to accompany the processional. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.Eva is survived by her daughters Echo (Ron) Ukrainetz of Great Falls and Faye Bradfield of Fayetteville, NC; a very special friend Phil Thompson of Great Falls; grandsons John and David Romensko, Tim Black, Frank, Mike, and Tommi Bumpus.She was preceded in death by her mother and father; Chester H. and Reva F. Thomas; a brother Chet Thomas Jr.; a sister Dorothea Thomas; and daughter Grace DeeAnn Rowe.Eva was born in 1926 in Conrad, Montana and grew up on the family farm where she was the apple of her fathers eye. In 1948, she married Wes Pearson who owned an electric shop and appliance store in Conrad. Three daughters were born before they packed up and moved to California. While in California, the family enjoyed showing horses, participating in parades, and traveling to western riding events.Montana was never far from their hearts and they returned annually to visit friends and family. When Wes and Eva divorced in 1967, Eva and Echo moved to Great Falls to be near family. Eva worked for many years at Gordons Restaurant and at Cascade Coach, where she was the quality control chief.She married David Roland in 1975. David died suddenly in 1981. Eva later married Reuben Braunberger and moved to the home they built on the Dearborn. Here they lived comfortably along the beauty of the Missouri River Canyon. Eva and Reuben spent many wonderful winters in Arizona, but always returned to their beloved Montana.In 2005, Eva and Reuben moved back to Great Fall due to Reubens failing health. Reuben passed quietly in 2007.She met and became dear friends with Phil Thompson at the Family Fellowship Church. They enjoyed many trips together including those to Alaska and Hawaii. Phil was with her every day during the difficult last few weeks.Eva will always be remembered for her fashion sense, her classic style, and her clever wit. Remember her with a smile.In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested in her name to the CM Russell Acquisitions Fund, 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401 or Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, 1400 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT59401.