Jill Estelle Voegel

GREAT FALLS - Jill Voegel passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer she was 59. She was surrounded by her friends and family. Although she battled with cancer for over 10 years, many didn’t know how sick she was. This was a testament to her selfless nature. She rarely felt sorry for herself; and instead of asking, “Why me?” she chose to ask, “Why not?” Jill was born May 18, 1959 to Ray and Louise Volkman in Great Falls, MT. She attended Great Falls Public Schools, graduating from Great Falls High in 1977, shortly after she met her husband Tom Voegel. She went on to attend Montana State University, graduating in August of 1983 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. Jill began her nursing career at Deaconess Hospital in 1983 and retired from Benefis Hospital after 33 years of service. She had many roles, but her favorite years were spent in Rehab and Wound Care units. Jill enjoyed life, and had many hobbies and interests. She had a love for animals, and enjoyed many outdoor activities. Jill cherished any opportunity she got to spend with horses. She loved her time on the water, whether it was midnight kayaking trips with friends, the annual float trip, or teaching her granddaughter how to kayak. She also enjoyed trips to Arizona and hitting the road to catch bluegrass festivals. She became adventurous in her later years, taking many trips including zip lining in Mexico, kayaking with whales in Alaska, and braving roundabouts in Scotland. These adventures were no small feat; she often pushed herself out of her comfort zone in order to experience life to the fullest. Jill’s kids were her pride and joy, up until her one and only grandchild, Phoenix, was born. No one minded taking a back seat to Phoenix. A true caretaker by nature, Jill would do anything for her family and friends. Her caretaking extended into her love of gardening. Anyone who has had the pleasure of walking through her garden can attest to her dedication in creating a beautiful sanctuary out of her yard. Jill is survived by her mother Louise Volkman; sister Theresa Williams; children Jody (Danny Williams), John Voegel, and Nikea Voegel; granddaughter Phoenix Rose Voegel; and many loved in-laws, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Ray Volkman; brother John Volkman; sister Carol Volkman; and husband Tom Voegel. As a matter of dearest importance to Jill‘s heart we would suggest, in lieu of flowers, a monetary contribution to Family First Federal Credit Union in the name of Phoenix Voegel to help assure a bright future for this shining star of a granddaughter who meant the world to her grandma. Alternative donations can also be made to Central Christian Church, where Jill was a member. A celebration of life will be held at Central Christian Church on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com.