Paul's Life;

Paul Lafverson Holmgren, 101, passed quietly Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015, to a place of peace where the grass is stirrup high and the cows and calves are slick and fat.

Paul was born July 7, 1914 to John L. and Nellie Holmgren. Paul had eight brothers and sisters. Montana history runs deep with the Holmgren name. Paul was born and raised on the family ranch west of Columbus, homesteaded by his Uncle “Judge” Olaf Lafverson in 1878. Uncle Lafverson and friend Ed Cardwell ran cattle in the then Open Range Montana Territory. Cardwell and Lafverson settled on the Yellowstone west of what would become known as Columbus. Paul would share stories by Uncle Lafverson and his Vigilante days.
Paul was an excellent horseman and loved his horses.

Paul served his country in World War II. He was a marksman and a top turret gunner on a B25 Bomber. Paul flew 53 bombing missions in his four years with the 82nd Squadron of the 12th Bomb Group known as “The Earthquakers.” Many stories he would share-many more will never be told.

Paul married the love of his life, Margaret McKeehan, on June 8, 1947. They worked side by side for over 68 years. He called her his sweetheart. They have four children; Paul (Gina), Absarokee; David, Gabbs, Nevada; Mary (Larry), Laurel; Jeanne (George), Helena. Grandchildren; Brandy (Frank), Joliet; Janet and Cyndi, Nevada; Greatgrandchildren James, Joseph, Jessica, Wesley, Cole, and Lucian. He is survived by his brother John (Margo) and nieces; Lea, Sandy, Patty, and Carol.

Paul was a loving Husband, Dad, Pa, Daddy and Grandpa. See you someday Dad and we will go for a ride and maybe race you to the gate. Mom knows you are waiting for us in Jordan drawing pictures in the sand.

Billings Gazette, Billings, Mt.

Paul L Holmgren