Maynard Van Tongeren

Maynard K. Van Tongeren was born to John and Lucille Van Tongeren in Conrad on July 29, 1940. He was raised on the family farm and graduated from Conrad High School in 1959. Maynard continued his education at Northern Montana College in Havre. He came back to work on the family farm and take care of his mother, who was bedridden and had to have constant care every two hours. His brother, John, would join Maynard every year with harvest. His sister, Jean, would come to help him care for their mother. Both of Maynard’s siblings are deceased.

Maynard collected old cars, mainly Fords. In 1999 he purchased 2 cars from Linda L. Smith from Malta. In March of 2000, they were married in Culbertson by a judge that Maynard knew from college. The new family also included Linda’s two daughters and three grandchildren. Maynard had a large influence on her 2 grandsons. Along with collecting cars, Maynard enjoyed bowling but his social life revolved around auctions.

Maynard passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026. He was 85 years old.

Funeral service will be held Monday, February 16, at 10:00am at Asper/Pondera Funeral Home. All are invited to remain at the funeral home after the service to enjoy cookies and maple bars.