Joseph Nemes

Harlem, MT

Long time Harlem resident, Joseph Nemes, 87, passed away peacefully May 16, 2017.

Mr. Nemes was born March 22, 1931 in Budapest, Hungary, to Franciska and Anton. He completed his early education in Budapest and after spending six years in a German refugee camp, came to the United States and proudly joined the Air Force during the conflict in Korea. He served in Africa and Great Falls, where he married Lois Hansen on September 28, 1957.

He spent many years of his life helping children learn beginning in Harlem, then Oregon, and finally back in Harlem. He formally retired from education in 1992, but continued to inspire the love of learning until his death.

He resided in Harlem for over 50 years as an active member of the community. During this time, he was involved with the swim team, Boy Scouts, 4-H, coaching track and cross-country, shooting sports, and recently, the Strong People Club. He also had a great love for riding and training horses as well as skiing at Showdown, Montana.

In retirement, he enjoyed studying photography, shooting his rifles, skiing with his family, traveling locally and abroad, floating the waters of Montana, and spending time with his grandchildren. He had a great respect for the local Native American culture in Harlem and enjoyed the company of many friends.

Joseph’s family wrote, “Joseph’s love for lifelong learning and his pursuit of adventures will always be an inspiration to his family. He lived for his dreams and instilled a sense of curiosity in everyone around him.”

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lois, his sister, Stefania, his children, and his eight grandchildren. This includes his twin sons, Joseph of Chinook and Anthony (Angela) of Viroqua, Wisconsin; his two daughters, Polly Weichel (Patrick) of Lewistown and Frances Hodgson (James) of Chinook; and his grandchildren, Keaton, Matthew, Nora, Elizabeth, Cormac, Garrett, Elaina, and Anika. He is proceeded in death by his parents and his sister, Ildiko.

He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.

In Lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Harlem Airmen’s Memorial i.e. Darwin Zellmer P.O. Box 932 Harlem, MT 59526.

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