Bernice Muir, 91, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Sidney Health Center Extended Care, surrounded by the love of her children, grandchildren, and
great-grandsons.

Bernice was born on August 17th, 1934, to Michael B. Koenig and Marie S.(Kronebush) Koenig. She was one of six children and grew up in Conrad, MT. Bernice attended the College of Great Falls, earning a secretarial degree. She met the love of her life, Jim, on a blind date. Bernice married James T. Muir on June 26th, 1954. They had three children: Thomas, Catherine, and Ronald.

Bernice was an amazing secretary, wife, Mother, Grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was faithful to her church, loved her family, camping trips, gardening, and baking. She loved to bake with her children, especially during the holidays, and later with her grandson, Aaron, who also enjoys baking. Many of her recipes have been passed down throughout the family and remain highlights on the cookie tray every Christmas.

Bernice and Jim moved their family every four years due to Jim's job as a co-op manager. They lived in Great Falls, Livingston, Lewistown, and back to Great Falls. Bernice worked for the Credit Union in Black Eagle for a short time. It was there that they were approached by Bernice's Uncle Herb to take over the family farm in Conrad. Jim retired from the Co-op, and they started their new life as farmers.

Bernice loved the country life but decided she also needed an outside job. She began working at the Conrad Hospital for a short time and then took on the role of secretary at St. Michael's Catholic Church. She worked there for nearly 34 years and was in her 80's when she finally retired.

Bernice and Jim's greatest adventures away from the farm were their two trips to Alaska. They loved the beauty and the culture. Jim passed away in 2001. Bernice continued to live in Conrad for another 14 years after his passing.

In July of 2015, Bernice moved to Sidney, Montana, to The Lodge of Lone Tree Assisted Living. She loved her little apartment and the care she received there. She was active in bingo, arts and crafts, and loved to hand out candy for Halloween. She especially loved the music activities, particularly the talented Vicki and her accordion.

After a fall and a lengthy hospital stay, she moved into Sidney Extended Care in April of 2023, where she lived for the past two years. All of her caregivers are truly
angels in disguise.

Bernice is survived by one sister, Joan (Mike) Keegan, several nieces and nephews, her children: Tom-Washington, Catherine (Daryl)-Sidney, MT, and Ron (Sue)-Washington. Her grandchildren: James, Sean (Hanna), Nick (all from Washington), David, Matthew (Ashley), Kristin (Sidney), and Aaron of Glendive. She will also be remembered by her three great-grandsons, Owen (11), Andrew (8), and Wyatt (2).

Bernice loved her family and was so proud of everyone's accomplishments. She was truly grateful for being able to live in Sidney and be close to her grandchildren and
watch her great-grandsons play.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband Jim, her parents, two brothers, two sisters, and several nephews.

Special thanks to the staff of the Lodge for making her feel at home and taking such good care of her for seven and a half years. An additional thank you to all the
CNAs and nurses at Sidney Extended Care for her wonderful care for the past two years, particularly the exceptional compassion shown these last three weeks.

In Loving Memory

Grandma's kitchen was the heart of our family-where stories were told, laughter was shared, and love was baked into every recipe. Her mint bars were a favorite at every Christmas, a sweet reminder of her warmth and care.

As we say goodbye, we hope you'll carry a little piece of her spirit home with you. May this recipe bring comfort, spark fond memories, and remind you love-like Grandma's baking- is best when shared