The Circle Banner - Anyone can love the mountains, but it takes a soul to love the pairie

Gloria Busse, 99 years old, passed away September 8, 2023 at Conroy Care in Circle, Montan with her family by her side. She was born December 26, 1923 in Glasgow, Montana. Her parents were David (Prince) and Helen Zick Anderson. She lived in McCone County all of her life. As a child, she rode horseback to attend Pasture Creek school. To attend high school in Frazer she and her dad would ride horses to the Missouri River where he rowed them across the river to drop her off to walk to the dorm.

After college, she began teaching at Turner Country school and would end her career at Highland Country school. She used her teaching degree to influence children in the schools and community throughout her life. Her teaching career played a significant role in her future. While working at the Turner school she stayed at the CK Ranch and walked back and forth each day. One day while walking home from school, a local farmer, named Bill Busse asked her if she'd like a ride. The ride she received from the young farmer, ended in marriage.

She and William (Bill) Busse were married on June 13, 1945 at the First Lutheran Church in Wolf Point, Montana. She and Bill lived and farmed in the Prairie Elk community for 50 years at which time they retired and moved into Circle. They enjoyed traveling and socializing with friends at local dances and were avid pinochle players. Sporting events were a passion. All games of every sport, including tournaments, were faithfully attended. After Bill's passing, Gloria continued their tradition of attending games. She would be recognized as Montana High School Associations Fan of the Year.

She was a 4-H leader, a charter member of the Prairie Elk Homemakers Club, a board member of the 100 Club for several years, a member of Circle Senior Center where she enjoyed playing pinochle and a good round of Bingo.

She enjoyed a good joke and especially one on herself. Her manner was straightforward and she always was ready to give advice or an encouraging word. Her grandchildren and Circle School children were her loves. They were all referred to as either, "My girl" or "My boy!" Her own children would be surprised at the extent their family had grown. She rarely missed music festivals, ball games, concerts or other activities. People were always welcomed to her home and she believed in "breaking bread together" so coffee and food were always forth coming. She often joked about making more coffee than anyone in Circle.

To Bill and Gloria's union came three children. George (Yvonne) Busse, Bighorn, WY, Helen (Edward) DeGabain, Cheyenne, WY and Lila (Jerry) Beard, Belgrade, MT.

She was preceded in death be her husband, Bill, her parents David (Prince) and Helen Anderson, her sister Dorothy Malcolm. She is survived by her three children, 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Her children are honored to carry on the legacy she has handed down.