Ethel Jennie Royland, 92, of Helena, passed away Saturday, Nov. 10, 2007, at the Cooney Convalescent Home in Helena.

Ethel was born to William and Myrtle Franzen on March 4, 1915, in Sentinel Butte, N.D. She attended schools in North Dakota and was extremely proud of her perfect attendance in school.

Ethel married Andrew Carlson on Nov. 23, 1932.

After Andrew Carlson passed away on April 21, 1974, Ethel married Norman Royland in Elko, Nev., on Feb.12, 1980. The couple enjoyed 27 years of marriage before his passing on Aug. 26 of this year.

Ethel loved crocheting and making very beautiful afghans for her family. She loved the time she put into the work and quilts were made for all. Ethel loved to fish, and the beauty of the Big Sky country made it easy to enjoy this favorite pastime. Ethel loved the old-fashioned slots and loved playing the nickel slot machines at the Jackpot Casino.

Ethel is survived by her two sons John (Lois) Carlson of Yuma, Ariz., and Jerry (Shirley) Carlson of Jefferson City; a daughter-in-law Shirley Carlson of Great Falls; a sister Clara (Fern) Heblick of Tacoma, Wash.; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Ethel is preceded in death by her parents William and Myrtle Franzen; her first husband Andrew Carlson; her second husband Norman Royland; a son Alan Carlson; a daughter Joy Warren; a grandson Dennis; brothers Wilbur, Raymond and Roy Franzen; and sisters Esther Kittelson and Etta Hilliard.

Visitation for Ethel is from noon to 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007, at Retz Funeral Home in Helena. A graveside service is scheduled for 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 16, 2007, at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison in Helena.

Memorials in Ethel's name are suggested to the Hospice of St. Peter's, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are under the care of Retz Funeral Home in Helena.

Express condolences at www.legacy.com/HelenaIR.

Published in the Helena Independent Record on 11/14/2007.