Lia B Onstad

Lia B. Onstad, 64, of Great Falls, MT, passed away peacefully in her home on October 30, 2022. A celebration of life will be determined and announced at a later time. Cremation has occurred under the direction of O’Connor Funeral Home in Great Falls. Remains will be laid to rest in Dutton, MT cemetery. Memorials or donations may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Lia was born on January 29,1958, in Reno, NV, to Freda and Vernon Wright. Lia grew up in Sparks, NV, raised by Freda and Rudy Simonson, where she finished her education. She moved to Washington with her first husband to the military base in Tacoma. She had her first child, Robin Sutherland, Jr. in 1974, and her second child, Angee Sutherland in 1976 in Tacoma, WA. Since birth, Robin has lived in an extended care facility in Tacoma, WA, due to significant health issues which need full-time care. Lia raised Angee in Sparks, NV.

Lia’s fondest accomplishment in life was her family. She lived for visits from her family and friends. She was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. She would welcome all into her home with warmth and kindness. Some secondary accomplishments she was proud of were becoming a pilot of small planes, being an avid horse enthusiast, a skillful marksman, and a proficient dancer. The hobbies she enjoyed were sketching, cooking, and growing herbs and flowers.

Lia is survived by her husband, Billy Onstad of Great Falls, MT; son, Robin Sutherland of Tacoma, WA; daughter, Sarah Onstad-Layton of Great Falls, MT; granddaughter, Alexus Geeraerts of Great Falls, MT; Grandsons, Shea Layton of Japan, Gabriel Layton of Great Falls, MT, Caius Layton of Great Falls, MT; sisters, Emily (Barney) of Choteau, MT, and Suzy (Jerred) Evans of Huson, MT; uncle, Bernie (Kris) of Great Falls, MT; and many treasured friends.

Lia was preceded in death by her father, Rudy; mother, Freda; sister, Mia; daughter, Angee; grandson, Jonathan; and many aunts and uncles.