Obituaries

Joyce Dora (Nelson) Brurud

Joyce Dora (Nelson) Brurud passed away due to complications of Alzheimer's on Aug. 8, 2014, at Big Sandy Medical Center Extended Care Unit in Big Sandy, Montana. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Nelson and Agnes (Sanvik) Wood; her brother, Jack Nelson; and her husband, Robert Brurud.  She is survived by two nieces, Pamela Munster of Nampa, Idaho, and Carmela Carrick of Gilroy, California; and a nephew, Kevin Nelson of Hillsboro, Oregon.

Joyce was born June 12, 1929, to Agnes (Sanvik) Nelson and Albert I. Nelson in Havre, Montana, and resided in Rudyard, Montana, until moving to Idaho, where she graduated from high school.  Following graduation from college, Joyce taught grade school in Eden, Montana, and Carter, Montana. After teaching Joyce worked in the insurance business and was a vice president of the Great Falls Savings and Loan.

In 1984, Joyce was named "Woman of the Year" by Zonta, a global organization of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women through service and advocacy.  

For many years Joyce worked as a greeter at the Great Falls airport welcoming travelers and assisting them with directions or questions. 

In addition to her business accomplishments Joyce was a talented and accomplished quilter and enjoyed creating ceramics. Music, particularly classical music, also gave her great pleasure.

Joyce and Bob Brurud met on a blind date, and it was love at first sight. They were married on Jan. 14, 1950, at the First Lutheran Church in Great Falls. They lived in Great Falls until Bob's passing in 1988. After Bob's death Joyce remained in Great Falls approximately 12 years. She then moved to Big Sandy, Montana, where she lived until her passing. Joyce had a warm smile and a big heart, and will truly be missed by her family and friends.

At Joyce's request no memorial services are planned.  Interment has taken place at Rudyard Cemetery.  Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Please visit Joyce's online memorial page and leave a message of condolence for her family at http://www.hollandbonine.com.

Memorials in Joyce's name may be made to Big Sandy Medical Center, P.O. Box 530, Big Sandy, MT 59520, the McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23rd  Street South, Great Falls, MT  59405, or to the charity of your choice.