Bonnie May Hout

Bonnie May Hout of Pablo, Montana, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Bonnie grew up in Chicago with the love of Maude and Joseph Fischer who taught her how to appreciate the creator and to love family. At the early age of 17, she left Illinois for California and met Bobby Petticrew. She left there with Bobby to cut Christmas trees in Montana and had her first child Jennifer. She later married Robert Hout in Pablo MT and had 5 more children.

Bonnie devoted her life to her children and grandchildren. They were her greatest joy, and she poured her warmth, humor, and wisdom into every moment she shared with them. She never missed a chance to inspire and cheer them on, especially at wrestling matches and graduations, where she traveled thousands of miles over the years to proudly support them. Even on days she could not make it, you just knew she was proud.

Bonnie cherished the simple, beautiful parts of Montana life. She enjoyed the solitude of camping beneath big sky on the Flathead River, the thrill of gambling, the violence of a good hunting trip, and the peace she found on back road drives while photographing the beauty of nature. Some of her fondest memories came from taking her children on these trips, teaching them to appreciate the land and to value spending time with loved ones. She also loved baking with her grandchildren, creating amazing cakes and cupcakes for her loved ones’ birthdays. She also enjoyed crocheting, and beading.

Bonnie built many lasting friendships on the Flathead Indian Reservation and was deeply respected by the community. She was always known for her open door and open heart. Whether someone needed a place to stay, a warm meal, or simply a listening ear, she made sure no one ever felt alone. Her home was always a lively, gathering place filled with love, laughter, stories, and acceptance. Many have reached out to share tales of her kindness, her sometimes brutal honesty, and the way she treated everyone with dignity and compassion. Others have reached out speaking of her remarkable courage and how even on life’s hardest days, she found ways to laugh, love, and lift the spirits of others.

Bonnie is survived by her loving husband, Robert Hout; her children Jennifer Barnes, Joe Hout, Ann Hout, David Hout, Suzy Hout, and Sam Hout; as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward her love, lessons, and legacy.

Life, beauty, and the start of new things, we take Bonnie May Hout’s words, “Don’t worry about me, everything will be okay. Never give up on what you want to do.” We take her words of wisdom with us on this new journey; may she rest in peace.