Jeanne Arlene Zupan
September 6, 1933 - September 27, 2024
Jeanne Arlene Zupan, 91, of Billings, passed away at home on Sept. 27, 2024, surrounded by her family.
Jeanne was born in Ely, Minnesota, to Francis and John Marinsek, on Sept. 6, 1933. Her time in Ely was filled with enjoyment of family and friends and the foundation of her Slovene heritage.
When asked what the best day of her life was, her response was the day she met her husband, Robert "Bob" Zupan. He arrived in Ely from Roundup, Montana, and was introduced to her through relatives. Their connection was immediate, which included their love of the polka. They went out on seven dates and, a month later, they were married at St. Anthony's in Ely. Their fast courtship was a point of pride, and their enduring love was a joy to all who had the privilege to witness it. They lived a love-filled life for 63 years together.
Jeanne's greatest joy was her family. She and Bob had four wonderful children and she made it her ambition to keep her family close throughout all her years. She orchestrated a summer gathering each year that was always described as the best week of the year. She never missed an opportunity to attend her children and grandchildren's events and activities. She was known and appreciated in the stands as "Grandma to all." She taught her family the valuable lesson of staying connected and supporting each other.
Throughout her life, Jeanne was dedicated to the church; sharing her faith with her children, praying the rosary daily, attending Mass, preparing food for funerals, and enjoying Cursillo weekends.
Jeanne was a fierce competitor who loved watching and attending sporting events. Her favorite teams included Senior Broncs, Carroll Saints, MSU Bobcats, and the Zags! She was an elite card player and enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. Most recently she was blessed to belong to a widows' group that gathered twice a week to play cards and share a meal. She cherished her time with these friends.
Jeanne had strong friendships through every phase of life. She was sought out as a trusted friend and confidant for her innate ability to listen. She would offer her full attention, hugs, a prayer, and reassurance that it would all work out. Walking into Jeanne's home was incredibly welcoming. There was always music, an aroma of delicious food, enjoyable conversation, and a bowl of candy. She was meticulous in her cleaning and tidiness. She spent countless hours in the kitchen pouring love into the many amazing meals she created from scratch.
She is survived by her twin sister, Joyce Manecke; brother in-law Don Opitz; sister in-law Pat Zupan; children, Roberta (Dave) Stengel, Mike (Sheere) Zupan, Diane (Kirk) Frazier, Anita (Bill) Dolan; grandchildren, Kassi (Chris) Stengel-Moore, Thomas (Paige) Dolan, Lindsey (Caleb) Schreibeis, Audrey Frazier, Lucas (Amanda) Zupan, Eli Frazier, Miles (Danni) Zupan; and great-grandchildren, Will, Layne, and Maggie Schreibeis, Eli and Calvin Moore, Robbie and Colter Dolan, Willow and expected baby sister Zupan. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and close friends.
A vigil will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. A celebration of life Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 2055 Woody Drive. Interment will follow at Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel.
The family wishes to thank Compassus Hospice staff.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Daylis new stadium project, St. Thomas the Apostle church, or the charity of your choice.
