Joan Leslie (Austin) Branger
Joan Leslie (Austin) Branger went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 23rd, 2021. Although we feel it was short, Joan lived a full and fruitful life. She was born October 11th, 1953 in Billings, MT. She was raised by her father Les Austin with her four siblings Joyce, Judy, Jan and David. As a child, Joan lived in several communities in Montana including Terry, Custer, Reed Point, Roundup, Harlowton and Billings. After graduating from Billings Senior High in 1971, she married John Bouchard and had three sons: Shawn, Ryan and Brad. John and Joan divorced after 23 years of marriage, then in 1994 she met her lifetime partner and soulmate Mark Branger. They were married in 1997 and had 23 wonderful years together filled with travel, family and faith. It was a match made in heaven. The two were always together whether it was going for a short walk, camping, exploring Yellowstone National Park or flying around the country on numerous trips they took together. They cherished each other’s company and helped each other grow in the Lord.
Joan’s life was also devoted to her children and grandchildren. Her life goal and career was to be the best mother and grandmother she could possibly be. She was their biggest fan and loved supporting them with their activities and sports. She enjoyed traveling to cheer them on in track, swimming, football and basketball. She gave and sacrificed so much so that her kids and grandkids would have the best life possible. She was Mark’s biggest support in his coaching and professional life as well.
Joan had a green thumb and loved flowers, particularly dahlias, and spending time in her flower garden. She was the definition of selfless love, strength & bravery, and had the ability to bring out the best in everyone. Joan was as genuine as they come, and the depth of her love was ever reaching. She always had time to visit, genuinely wanted to get to know people and made them feel loved. Joan was devoted to God and it showed in all that she did for so many. Her family believes that Christ greeted her with “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Although we are deeply saddened that she has left earth, we truly rejoice that she is with God and reunited with her son, Shawn Bouchard, her father, “Papa”, her brother David and others whom we have lost. She is survived by her husband Mark Branger; her son Ryan Bouchard, his wife Mindi and their sons Isaiah and Noah; her son Brad Bouchard, his wife Crystal and their sons Elijah, Ezra, and Ezekiel; her sisters Joyce Austin, Judy Bonar and Jan Cooney, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and an extended family of friends who loved her as much as she loved them. “This is the day the Lord has made; Rejoice and be glad in it.”
A celebration of life will be held at Chancey’s Event Center, 266 Hogan Rd, Huntley on Saturday, February 20 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers to the family, please make a donation to SmileTrain or a charity of one’s choice in Joan’s name.
