February 9, 2016

Jeanne Urban

Jeanne Urban, age 97, died peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at the Holy Rosary Residential Living in Miles City, Mont., following a brief stay there.  
Jeanne was born Dorothy Jeanne White in Minot, N.D. on Sept. 25, 1918, to parents Helen and L.A. White. She was the middle child of five, growing up in a family which valued family, church, music, and education.  
She attended elementary and high school in Minot, where her father was superintendent, and continued her education at Minot State Teacher’s College. She graduated in 1940 with degrees in English and Music, and later added an endorsement in Library Science.
Jeanne first taught in Max, N.D., and then moved to Hebron, N.D. to teach. There she met George Urban,   a local businessman and tenor. They married in 1942 and later had two children, John in 1944 and Marilyn in 1948.
 George went back to school to gain his education degree, and in 1956 he and Jeanne moved to Arnegard to teach. They taught in Alexander and Watford City followed by many years in Williston where Jeanne was the junior high librarian. She especially enjoyed reading all the books so she would be able to find a book for any student by knowing his or her interests.  
In addition to her family and her teaching, Jeanne was active as a director for a variety of groups including a men’s chorus and several church choirs. Because of her beautiful soprano voice she was a prized member of several musical groups as well. She and her husband put together many musical programs and entertained civic and religious groups for many years. Music was always a source of joy throughout her life whether performing, participating, or listening.
Jeanne was also part of groups which supported women’s education (PEO, Delta Kappa Gamma, AAUW), and was active in church groups and activities. She and George enjoyed traveling in their VW camper all over the USA and especially N.D.
She continued to travel with friends and family following his death in 1990, and never failed to enjoy the beautiful scenery wherever she went. She spent her last dozen years living with her daughter and son-in-law and his mother in Butte and Miles City, Mont., where “The Moms” were a popular pair in the church and community.
She is survived by her youngest sister, Joyce; her son, John (Audrey) Urban of Dickinson, N.D.; her daughter, Marilyn (Bob) Thaden of Miles City, Mont.; grandchildren, Josh Thaden of Miles City, Mont., Lyssa Thaden of Spokane, Wash., and great-grandchild Slate Thaden Hayes.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Elizabeth and Margaret; her brother, Dave; and her husband, George.
We will remember Jeanne’s cheerful outlook on life, her directing music on every hymn and concert from chair or pew, her rendition of “Oh What a Beautiful Morning!” while out for a drive, and her appreciation of small favors and family.   
Memorials can be directed to groups supporting women’s education or music.  
A memorial service will be held at United Christian Church in Miles City, Mont., at 4 p.m. Thursday Feb. 11, 2016. This will be followed by  English tea, music, and remembrances in the UCC Disciple’s Hall. Interment will be held in Hebron, N.D., at a later date.  
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
 
 

WATFORD CITY WEATHER