Winona (Nona) Ray Axsom

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Winona (Nona) Ray Axsom, 65, announce her sudden passing on July 10, 2025, a resident of Troy, Montana. 

She was our beloved daughter and sister, aunt, niece, cousin, sister-in-law and friend. Nona will also be dearly missed by her friends throughout the community of Troy and co-workers of International Union of Elevator Constructors, Local 23 in Portland, Oregon.

She was born on Nov. 20, 1959 in Redmond, Oregon and a graduate of Girls Polytechnic in Portland, Oregon.

Nona was the youngest daughter of Darlene (Axsom) Brown and William H. Axsom Sr. (deceased). She is survived by her sisters, Kathelene Buchta, Patricia Bowen, Linda Thompkins, Karen Butler and her brother William H. Axsom Jr. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Louella Axsom and Susan Curtis.

She was previously married to Mark Banks (deceased) and Robert VerPoorten.

A wonderful sparkling personality, cherished by all who knew her, Nona was dedicated to her tradecraft. Whether it was working in fast food, a sawmill, a grocery store, or elevator construction. She was a model of excellence as both a technician among her peers and a mentor to new employees and team members.

Her non-working hours were typically spent in the outdoors traveling and hiking with her dogs. Their shared adventures included fishing and panning for gold. Always on the lookout for “pretty rocks” her favorites were heart shaped. Nona enjoyed recounting family-tales of adventures throughout the Pacific Northwest, California and Mexico.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.