Death Notice for John “Jack” Meagher
John “Jack” Meagher, 83, of Deer Lodge, died on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at the Deer Lodge Rehabilitation Center, Deer Lodge.  Services are pending.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Jack’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Reed Archie Allred
Reed Archie Allred, June 9, 1956 - December 27, 2020.
Reed Archie Allred, 64 passed peacefully at his home in Idaho. Reed was born July 9, 1956 in Brigham City, Utah to Kenneth and Mae Allred.  He spent his childhood in Clearfield, Utah riding bicycles and spending time with his five siblings Alan, Anna, Janet, Nancy, and Brian. At an early age Reed found a love for engines and enjoyed helping his dad in the garage, finding and fixing problems. He was known in the family for his riding abilities and fearlessness, and his love for the outdoors and hunting.
Reed was always in pursuit of adventure and loved pushing the boundaries of what he could accomplish. When he learned to ride a bike, that turned to wheelies, which turned into motorcycle wheelies, and eventually wheelies around the block. And when Reed wasn’t pursuing adventure it pursued him! At 13, Reed was woken by a curious bear while sleeping outside during a family camping trip. Luckily, all he came out with was some small scars, a ripped shirt as a souvenir, and a story to entertain the family for years to come.
Reed graduated from Clearfield High School in 1974 and joined the Army, serving for two years from 1974-1976. While serving he made friends from Montana and following his honorable discharge in 1976, he made his way to MT to see what it had to offer.
 Reed settled in Deer Lodge and found work as a ranch hand. On June 5th, 1980, he married Jane Boggess and together they had three girls, Tiffany, Jolanda, and Kailey.  Reed bought his first self-loading log truck some years later. He liked to tell everyone, “You’ll never get anywhere working for someone else,” and for the next  30 years he ran a successful trucking business allowing him to retire at 62. 
 During his working years not much changed from his childhood. The toys just got bigger and the inner daredevil never left. Many years with his family were spent camping, hunting, boating, exploring mountain lakes, and scaring people with his infamous Jeep rides. He enjoyed all types of hunting and fishing and often travelled to East Montana, Florida, and Alaska to enjoy the outdoors with his friends and family. In the later years he enjoyed riding his mule Toby and packing into the mountains as a member of the Backcountry Horsemen.
Retirement suited him well. He enjoyed the property he had built with all his “stuff” around him. He enjoyed being alone, but loved having good friends and his grandkids around. In 2020 he found the perfect solution and moved to North Idaho in the mountains in the middle of nowhere. Just the way he wanted it. A caravan of amazing friends helped get him over and settled. Thankfully, Reed spent his last years surrounded by the people who mattered most.  Gone far too soon, he will be extremely missed. Per his request no service will be held. 
Reed is preceded by his parents Viola Mae and Kenneth Allred. Reed is survived by his five siblings Alan, Janet, Nancy, Anna, Brian, his daughters Tiffany Bentick, Jolanda LaChapelle, and Kailey Allred, his unofficial son Kyle Stone, and his beloved grandsons Kessler Reed Bentick and Kanyen Allen Bentick.
“I’m the biggest, baddest, little mother you’ve ever met, and don’t you forget it.”

​Fred Dale Benson (Papa Fred)
Fred Dale Benson (Papa Fred) passed away December 23, 2020, at his home.
Fred was born November 15, 1929, in Deer Lodge, to John and Ester Benson. He attended grade school in Avon and high school in Deer Lodge.
When he was 14 years old his parents were killed in a tragic accident. He quit school when he was a freshman in high school so he could help with running the family ranch. 
Fred married Dorothy Eliason on November 20, 1949. They resided on the ranch in Avon for several years. In 1954 he was drafted into the army and served for a few years. While in Avon they had  several dairy cows which had to be milked early in the morning and then in the evening. In between the milking times all the other ranching work had to be done. The milk was sold to the creamery in Deer Lodge for many years. After the ranch in Deer Lodge was purchased, Fred and Dot moved and continued to live and ranch there.
Fred and Dot were not blessed with having their own children but while living in both Avon and Deer Lodge they helped raise many kids. There were always one or more kids living with them. All the kids wanted to go stay with Papa Fred and Grandma Dot.
Fred was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, his parents, John and Ester Benson, sister Betty and brother Cliff. He is survived by his brother Bruce and sister-in-law Pauline, his sister Eva Browning, his sister-in-law, Helen Ring and his sister-in-law Sharon and brother-in-law Joe Applegate. He also has many nieces and nephews that he loved.
Graveside service were be held December 30, 2020, at the Avon Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be held in the summer. In-lieu of flowers memorials are appreciated and can be made to the Avon Cemetery, the Avon Community Club or the Community of Christ Church in Deer Lodge. 

Death Notice for Duane Hart
Duane Hart, 70, of Deer Lodge, died on Thursday, December 24, 2020, at the Deer Lodge Medical Center.  Services are pending. 
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Duane’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Dale Marie Thompson Briggeman
After almost 96 years of family hugs, and nine months without them, mom/grandma Dale took her last breath in the early minutes of Dec. 26, 2020.
Dale Marie Thompson Briggeman died of natural causes at Riverside Health and Rehabilitation, her home for most of the past six years. It had nothing to do with COVID-19 and everything to do with a gentle old heart that grudgingly stopped beating.
Dale was born June 2, 1924, to Leo and Elizabeth Bersuch Thompson on a ranch between Lewistown and Grass Range. The family moved into Lewistown when the kids, including sister Eleanor and brothers Roy and Harry, became of school age. Dale graduated from Fergus High in 1942 and followed in Eleanor’s footsteps to Montana State Normal College in Dillon. After graduating from the two-year program she taught third grade in Bozeman for a year; first grade in Deer Lodge for three years and in Rockford, Washington, for one more. While in Deer Lodge she met Martin Briggeman, and they married in Lewistown on June 25, 1949. 
The newlyweds lived first in Drummond, where Martin was bulk salesman for Continental Oil (Conoco). Kathy was born in May 1950, and in 1951 Martin accepted an offer to manage Ted Farley’s Two Creek Ranch in Ovando. Lynne, Tom and Kim were born while living there. In 1957 Martin took a job with the state highway department and moved his growing family to Helena. In June 1958 they settled outside of Missoula, in a home at Marshall Grade that would remain Briggeman headquarters for the next 50-plus years. Mary, their fifth and youngest child, was born two months later. 
In January 1965, with all her kids now in school, Dale opened a private kindergarten on the porch of her home. For the next nine and a half years she taught morning and afternoon classes to five-year-olds who are now in their 50s and early 60s. When Bonner School added public kindergarten in the fall of 1975, Dale was the obvious selection to lead it. For the next 11 years she was surrounded by a staff of lifelong friends and hundreds of eager students. Dale was also an active member of the Altar Society at St. Ann Catholic Church in Bonner, and was fully immersed in the horse show scene with Martin and the girls. After she retired from teaching in 1986, Dale threw herself into her yard, her kids and their kids, walks by the river and up Marshall Canyon, and frequent travels with Martin to ports of call from Hawaii to Texas to Plentywood. In 2006 they moved into Missoula to enjoy life at The Springs. When Martin’s health deteriorated five years later, Dale moved to the Village Senior Residence to be near him. Her husband of 62 years passed away on Aug. 22, 2011. 
After living for a time in Colorado with daughter Lynne and her family, Dale moved back to Missoula in early 2015. She received the best of care at Riverside from an array of compassionate providers, even and especially during these COVID times. We will forever be grateful for that.
Besides Martin, Dale was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Eleanor Bell and Roy and Harry Thompson. Survivors include her children: Kathy (Sam) Milodragovich, Butte; Lynne (Stewart) Thomson, Kremmling, Colorado; Tom (Tomi) Briggeman, Kalispell; Kim (Linda) Briggeman, Missoula, and Mary (Milt) Bradford, Weatherford, Texas. Dale is also survived by brother-in-law Don Briggeman of Portland, Oregon, as well as 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren: Sam and Kelly Milodragovich (Arabelle and Ellery) of Lolo; Mary Milodragovich of Clinton; Pat and Liza Thomson (Charlee, Owen, Will) of Wright, Wyoming; Tim and Nellie Thomson (Lyndee and Hadley) of Kremmling, Colorado; Adrianne and Mike Taylor (Jackson and Clay) of Spokane; Malarie and Chad Juel (Briggs) of Scobey; Kaci Briggeman (Marli) of Missoula; Kara and Josh Petersen (Kenzie and Kyrie) of East Helena; Nicole and Jermaine Sellers (Lincoln) of Raleigh, North Carolina; Molly and Austin Sabers of Kalispell, and Garrett Bradford of Texas. 
Funeral services will be held when the pandemic is under wraps. Dale’s cremains will be interred next to Martin’s at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge at that time. Memorials can be made to Ladies of St. Ann, St. Ann Catholic Church, P.O.  Box 1008, Bonner, Montana 59823. 

Edna Marie Parish Hover
Edna Marie Parish Hover. December 11th, 1943 – December 28th, 2020.
Edna Hover went to be with her Lord on December 28th, 2020, in Chandler, Ariz. She was born on December 11, 1943, to Carl and Phoebe Parish in Dillon. The family resided in the Big Hole Valley for several years before moving to Deer Lodge in 1955. She attended Powell County High School and there, met the love of her life, Forest Hover. The two were married on July 6, 1960. Edna was a lifetime member of Floral Chapter #46, O.E.S.
She is survived by her son, Roy Hover, brother Carl Parish, numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Forest, and her daughter, Tammie Hover Romine.
No services are planned at this time. Donations in her memory can be made to a charity of your choice.

Diane Wallgren
Diane Wallgren (90).
Diane passed away peacefully at home on December 26.  She was surrounded by her family including her husband of 72 years, Ivan, and her son Terry and his wife Mary.  Diane lived in Rathdrum, Idaho for eight years at the Golden Spike Estates, but Deer Lodge, where they lived for 58 years, was the place she always considered home.
She was born February, 1930 in Ashley, N.D., to Adolph and Lydia Hess.  In her childhood, they moved around North Dakota as her dad worked for the Great Northern Railroad.  She graduated from Ellendale High School in North Dakota.  A mutual friend had introduced Diane to Ivan Wallgren and their first date was a local dance.  She married Ivan in 1948 in Jamestown, N.D.  They went on to have two children, Terry and Vicki, and moved to Deer Lodge in 1954 where she spent most of her life.  Ivan taught shop at the junior high.  Once their own children were in school, Diane worked for the Montana Registrar’s Office and then became the “call girl” for the Montana State Prison – at least that was what they called the switchboard operator.  She enjoyed her career and the friends she made.  She retired in 1984.
Diane loved her beautiful flower garden and was affectionately known as “Grandma Rainbird” because she maintained a gorgeous yard through frequent watering by hand.  They loved going to car shows in the Northwest to show off their restored ’67 Mustang convertible and ’55 fat-fender Ford pickup and even hosted the Territorial Days Rod Run at the Old Prison in Deer Lodge for several years.  In addition to the multitude of trophies they took home, they also made many friends they enjoyed seeing year after year.  Diane also enjoyed traveling to see family across the US and in Canada.  Family and friends were very important to her.  Diane will always be remembered as an elegant, beautiful woman with a quiet, gracious nature.
Faith meant a lot to Diane and she was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Deer Lodge and then Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Rathdrum.   
Diane was preceded in death by her parents and their daughter, Vicki.  She is survived by her husband, Ivan; son Terry (Mary) of Rathdrum; grandsons Cory (Holly) of Jefferson City, Lee (Kirsten) of Havre, and Brett (Leticia) of Bonney Lake, Wash.; and six great-grandchildren:  Michael, Ryan, Wyatt, April, Colter, and Harper.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation:  www.BCRF.org

​Jerry Ray Johnson
​Jerry Ray Johnson, 68, ended his journey on earth and entered his true home in Heaven on Tuesday, December 29, 2020.  He was with his devoted wife, Sharon, at their residence and is now at peace after a five-year battle with PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy).
Jerry was born on a blizzarding Easter Sunday, April 13, 1952 to Lawrence and Nellie Ann (Runnels) Johnson 45 minutes after his twin sister, Judy – much to the surprise of his parents.  They joined his other siblings David, Jim, Jane, Barbara and Kathleen. 
He was raised in Wautoma, Wis. where he enjoyed playing baseball with his siblings, spending summer days at Witter’s Lake with his grandmother, Anna Johnson, swimming, fishing, and catching turtles and frogs with his siblings and cousins.  The family moved to Monona, Wis. in 1967 where Jerry later graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1970.
He moved to Milwaukee where he worked for Kmart and Miller Brewing Company for many years.  He met and married Jaqueline Blend and they were blessed with two sons, Joseph in 1975 and Kristopher in 1979.  Jackie and Jerry later divorced, and Jerry moved to Deer Lodge in 1984 where his brother Dave lived.  Jerry began managing the Deer Lodge Golf Course and worked at the liquor store and bartended at The Broken Arrow before settling into his career at the Montana State Prison. He met Sharon Moore and was welcomed with open arms to the Moore family and group of friends.   Jerry and Sharon married in July 1986 and were blessed with son, Joshua in 1988 and daughter Dannielle in 1992.  
Jerry worked for the Montana State Prison for  29 years.   He held several different titles through the years including Correctional Officer, Hearings Officer, and finally as Contract Placement Bureau Correction Manager. Jerry enjoyed work, but more importantly the people he met and friendships he made.  He will probably be remembered by his coworkers mostly for his sense of humor, pranks, and easy-going attitude.  Due to health issues, he retired from the prison in August 2016 and was honored for his years of service.
Being born and bred in Wisconsin, Jerry was an avid Packer and Brewer fan and every trip to Lambeau Field and Miller Park was a special occasion, even to the point of paying homage by kissing the ground at Lambeau field with Kris and Josh. Family and friends loved to gather, often in full Cheesehead apparel,  to watch the Packer games. He wanted to make sure everyone was well fed so brats and brews and a multitude of appetizers were staples.  Jerry enjoyed all sports especially when his kids were participating – soccer and baseball with Joe, hockey with  Kris, basketball and football with Josh and basketball, volleyball, softball and track with Danni.  At Danni’s various sports events he was known as the “King of Concessions” and would often have pockets full of treats to give away.   
Jerry had such a gentle spirit, always wanting to make people feel comfortable and at ease.  He had an infectious grin and a quick humor, regardless of the occasion. He would be the first person to crack a joke at his own memorial. Just ask any of his coworkers about his fart machine.  He was the best guy to belly up to the bar with for a drink and always had a story to tell. With family and others, he was continually patient, kind, fair, understanding, impartial, and ready to listen.  
Jerry was full to bursting with classic dad knowledge - how to build a deck, the best kind of pepper for salsa, dates of the French and Indian War, how tall Napoleon Bonaparte was, and the name of the 1967 Superbowl MVP. If you ever had the privilege to be on his team in a game of trivial pursuit, the win was in the bag. 
He was always willing to lend a helping hand no matter the time or place. He was an Exalted Ruler for the Local Elks club, frequently acting as chef (where his potato bar was famous), and bartending where his humor and listening skills were greatly appreciated.   He  was an avid participant in their charitable activities around town like the Hoop Shoot, Hooked on Fishing, bike safety and various other community events.
Jerry loved yard sales,  and on any given weekend  you could find him scouring the streets of Deer Lodge looking for a bargain (or what Sharon called junk), the perfect gift, or just  striking up a conversation, especially with fellow “collectors,” a trait that he passed along to Danni.
He enjoyed Monday night cribbage - looking for a 29 hand, men’s bowling- always striving for the elusive 300, and the occasional poker games on Saturdays at Benders. For many years, golfing was also an enjoyable activity with family and friends. Jerry loved to build, tinker, and fix. He was always working on a project - fixing a lawn mower,  building a shelf, organizing the garage or elbow deep in his garden.
Jerry was loved by all who were lucky enough to know him. He made every life he touched better. Many would say he was “one of the good ones.” 
Jerry was preceded in death by parents, Lawrence and Nellie,  in-laws, Hugh and Lois Moore, brother Dave and Sister Barbara and brothers-in-law Pat Purcell and Robert Pohle.  He is survived by his wife, Sharon; sons Joe (Alison) Sheboygan Falls, Wis.;  Kris, Sheboygan, Wis.; Josh (Brittany) Belgrade; daughter Danni (Joe) Kersten, Manitowoc, Wis.;  brother Jim (Janice) Sidney, Ohio; sisters Jane (Pete) Brogle, and  Kathy Pohle, Wautoma, Wis.;  twin sister Judy Johnson (Gene)  Wild Rose, Wis.  He is also survived by brother-in-law David (Nancy) Moore, Deer Lodge; Janice (Chuck) Spencer, Helena; Meri (Greg) Hudoba, Minneapolis, Min. and grandchildren, David, Mary, Daniel and Luke Johnson, Katelynn Johnson and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. 
Sharon and the family would like to thank Julie and Grace from  Senior Home Solutions for their wonderful care. A special thank you to Dr. Paul Siddoway for the  years of care and support as well his determination to find answers.  They are forever grateful.  Sharon would also like to thank  family and friends  for their love, support and  prayers these last five years  which brought them joy and laughter even amid Jerry’s health challenges.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Rialto Theater in Deer Lodge.  Join us in solidarity that day by wearing green and gold with the Johnson family Packer fans.  Masks and social distancing will be practiced.  The service will be live streamed from: Flint Creek Courier’s Facebook page under Events. 
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to CurePSP, Elks National Foundation, Christ Fellowship Church or donor’s choice.

James Harold “Steve” Stevenson
James Harold “Steve” Stevenson. May 23, 1929- December 29, 2020.
Dad was born in Alexander, North Dakota on May 23, 1929. He was raised on his granddad’s ranch on Squaw Gap, Redwing/Haydraw area, North Dakota near Sydney. He was the fourth of 11 children born to Hod Stevenson and Laura Grace (Shibley) Stevenson. The first two passed as babies from “milk fever.” His older brother, Hugh William, was killed in a car wreck in May of 1975.
Jim enlisted in the Army in November of 1950. Dad married our mother, Karen Louise Wells, on March 31, 1951, in Miles City. Five days later Jim was deployed to Korea. He served 10 months on the front lines as a Communication Specialist. He returned to the states in August of 1952.  
After his return to civilian life Jim and Karen, and daughter Donna who was born while he was away at war, moved to Keene, N.D. to the Henderson Ranch. Leslie and Danny were born while Jim and Karen and family lived there. The family then moved to the Kennedy Ranch at Mandaree, N.D. and then moved to Powers Lake where Jim worked for Ron Creighton, Karen’s uncle, who ran a dairy farm there. Our brother Wade Lee was born on May 19th of 1959. A week out of the hospital and Jim moved the family to the Spring ranch on the Figure 4. It was there that Wade Lee passed on January 21, 1960.  Times were tough for this Stevenson family, but we worked hard and always made the best of things. We had each other to rely on and had many good times as well. 
In April of 1960 Jim and family relocated to Deer Lodge to work for the Comico American Phosphate Mine. He was nearly killed in a mine accident in 1962. In June of 1967 Jim moved the family to Wisdom. The family lived at the Ferris Ranch house and Jim took a job working for the Mel McDowell family. 
Jim did many different jobs over his 91 years of life.  He broke horses, farmed, milked cows, cut lumber, built fence. His greatest love next to his family, was breaking horses and working on the ranch. The cowboy life.  In fact, he was just horseback two years ago in the spring, up at the North Fork Ranch west of Wisdom and heeled a calf that needed doctored and tagged!
Jim loved the Big Hole. He loved riding the meadows, hunting, fishing, fencing. Just about anything outdoors. He loved a good meal, chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, and peas. He loved a good piece of pie and often could be found at the Crossing Bar and Grill in Wisdom enjoying his favorite, pumpkin pie with a big dollop of whipped cream or ice cream on top. Jim also like to socialize. He could often be found at the Antlers Saloon in Wisdom discussing the day’s work with the local cowboys while enjoying a Budweiser or a Ten High Whiskey Ditch. 
Jim was known throughout the area as “Gentleman Jim, or Steve,” which was short for Stevenson. 
Jim was preceded in death by his parents (Laura Grace and Harold Stevenson), his siblings Hugh (Shib) Stevenson, Walter (Walt) Stevenson, Jerry (Bud) Stevenson, Winnifred (Loulabell) Dschaak, Sharon Stevenson, Patrick Stevenson, Robert Henry “Bob” Stevenson, and two siblings who died right after birth: his two sons, Wade Lee Stevenson and Leslie James Stevenson, and his beloved grandson Jason (Jake) Neil Stevenson.
Jim is survived by his siblings Patricia/Sis (Pete) White, Adam “Mike” (Katherine) Stevenson, and Katheryn “Jeppy” Rutledge; his daughter Donna Louise (Mike) Campbell of Battle Mountain, Nev., her son Danny Ross Stevenson (Serena) of Wisdom, daughter, Paula (Buzz) Kirkpatrick of Jackson; also his grandchildren Dusti (Aaron) Gilbert of Battle Mountain, Nev., Chancy (Sheila) Campbell of Wisdom, Tharon Campbell (Stacey) of Jackpot, Nev., Lacey Stevenson of Billings, James “Jimmer” (Zane Burns) Stevenson of Wisdom, Lori Wilke of Wisdom, Lani (Eric) Leonard of Winslow, Ariz., Jennifer (Rusty) Kallem of Billings, Sarah (Dan) Reinhold of Pocatello, Idaho, Megan (Robert) Blake of Dillon, and Holly (Spencer) Sorensen of Belgrade,  Arthur (Harlie Smith) Gutierrez of Bozeman, Lydia (Martell Parks) Gutierrez of Menifee, Calif., Rosanna Gutierrez of Missoula; and 29 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. 
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 9.  About 4:30 or 5:00 we will all toast Jim at the Antlers Saloon in Wisdom, then at 6 pm at the Crossing Bar & Grill, we will all do a toast to “Gentle Jim,” a great friend, a great cowboy, a great man. A private family and close friends scattering of his ashes at Stone Lake, up Doolittle, will take place this summer, date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Rocky Mountain Care Center, 30 South Rodney, Helena, Montana 59601. They took such great care of him; he was very comfortable and happy there. 

Tamara D. Canaan
Born October 10, 1937, in Butte, to Donald and Deborah Canaan, Tamara passed away from medical complications on December 21, 2020.  She attended elementary school in Avon and high school in Deer Lodge.  She attended University in Missoula and trained as a court reporter.  She practiced her court reporter career in Missoula, Santa Cruz, Calif., and Helena.  A co-worker wrote at her retirement: “Well done!  A good and faithful public servant, your loyalty, dedication, and hard work have been an inspiration to the entire staff.  Congratulations on having completed many years of exemplary service to the court.”
During her retirement, she enjoyed her home in Helena with her flowers and animals, and some wonderful friends and neighbors.  She was a faithful contributor to many worthwhile causes.  
Tamara was preceded in death by her parents.  She had no other family or relatives.
No services will be held. She will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge during a private service.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Tamara. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Tamara.

Clifford Earl Graveley
Clifford Earl Graveley was 98 years old.  He was born on June 4th, 1922 on the home ranch and passed December 26, 2020 at his ranch home.  He is the son of Charles and Rhoda Graveley.
Cliff went to school in Avon to the eighth grade and worked on the home ranch otherwise.  He married Patricia E. Heltborg September 7th, 1943.  They were married 77 years.  They had eight children; Christine Rachor (Jim), Steve Graveley (Sue), Lorrain Mead (Roger), Valda Thome, Scott Graveley (Suzi), Shane Graveley (Donna), Sandy Graveley (Mary) and Lisa An who died shortly after birth.
He also had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
Those preceding him in death are his parents, siblings and son-in-laws Buzzy Cooper, Kit Hardy and Duane Thome.
Memorial contributions can be made to Avon Community Church, PO Box 224, Avon MT 59713.
Burial has taken place.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Cliff’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Marjie Rae (White) Scharf
Marjie Rae (White) Scharf of Helena passed away on November 13, 2020 at the age 81.  Born on January 17, 1939 and raised in Deer Lodge, she was the oldest daughter of Jack White and Bonnie (Anderson) White. In 1957 she graduated with honors from Powell County High School along many of her lifelong friends. On January 2, 1958 Marjie married her childhood sweetheart Jack Scharf.  She is survived by her husband Jack of almost 63 years, daughters Sandy (George) Countryman and Laura (Chet) Pierman, and sons Bruce (Nina) Scharf and Eric (Dini) Scharf, brothers Jim (Donna) White and Terry (Kathy) White and sister Betty (Jack) Main, 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  
Always ready for adventure, Marjie and Jack opened and operated the River of Gold Mining Museum and Gift Shop in Nevada City for several years.  After becoming snowbirds they spent many winters in Quartzite, Ariz. selling their wares and exploring the desert.  It was there that Marjie learned and perfected the art of wire wrapping jewelry which allowed her to share her love of stones with family, friends and customers.  Marjie especially loved camping and for the last several years organized large family campouts each summer at Gold Creek, creating good times and great memories for everyone.  Always busy with a project, she could decorate on a dime and made her homes beautiful inside and out wherever she lived.  Her close friends affectionately called her “Magic Marj” because she could pull a meal together with not much to work with. 
Marjie was a very loving wife, mother, grandmother and kind friend who was always willing to offer love and support in times of need.  As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, she loved studying the bible and received much joy from sharing bible knowledge with others.  A celebration of Marjie’s life will be held at a later date when family and friends can gather to share stories and memories.

Death Notice: Robert C. Toole
Robert C. Toole, owner and operator of River Radio Ranch and The River AM/FM, passed away November 2020.

Darrell Vernon Bauman
Darrell Vernon Bauman was born November 26, 1934 to George and Florence Bauman in South Dakota.  The family had an adventurous spirit and moved around quite a bit to allow George to work on farms and ranches all around the Midwest.  Their travels led them to Deer Lodge and Darrell ultimately chose to make it his home.  His time in the Army allowed him to see a bit of the world including an opportunity to tour Europe while stationed in Italy, but he always came back home.  
Darrell married Joy Bauman and together their family included sons Doug, Darcy, and Darrell, and daughter Darla.  Deer Lodge was the perfect place to call home as it provided an excellent location for Darrell to pursue his great joys – hunting and ice fishing!  After retiring from Cominco mine, he continued to stay busy with work at the sawmill and as a bartender.  After spending 40 years as an underground miner, he spent as much time in the sun as possible and developed a year-round tan.  The year really had three seasons – yard sale-ing, hunting, and ice fishing.  
He is survived by sons Doug and Darcy Hunt of Deer Lodge, and Darrell Bauman (Sandy) of Helena; grandchildren Laura Anderson (Gabe) of California, Doug Hunt Jr. (Laura) of Kalispell, Devin Leigh Hunt of California, Hannah Sidner (Rodger) of Great Falls, Morgan Turner (Levi) of Deer Lodge, and Olivia Bauman of Bozeman; and six great-grandchildren.   He was preceded by his parents George and Florence, brother Kenny, sister Nettie, daughter Darla, and granddaughters Melanie and Laynie.  
Darrell was warm, friendly, and chatty with everyone he met.  His big smile with those dimples instantly drew people in!  He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.  He slipped away peacefully to enter the kingdom of Heaven on December 7, 2020.   Due to COVID, no services will be held at this time, but the family will plan a celebration of life for later in the year.  Please honor Darrell by thinking of him next time you are out in the sunshine enjoying nature, as that was truly his happy place.  

Rockne Tim “Tim” Johnson
Rockne Tim “Tim” Johnson passed away at Big Sky Care Center in Helena as a result of Covid-19 at the age of 79 years old. Tim passed peacefully Monday afternoon on 12/7/2020 after being diagnosed 12 days previously. He was able to be visited and comforted by his sons and niece at the time of passing. 
Tim was born in Bozeman on 7/7/1941 to Ada L. and Arthur W. Johnson, who had moved to Bozeman from Deer Lodge. The Johnson family then moved to Helena where Tim attended school, graduating from Helena High School in 1959. He enjoyed his time in high school and developed good friends with whom he remained close throughout his life. When on summer break, Tim worked on his uncle’s farm in Deer Lodge with his cousins and continued to maintain close family ties with his Deer Lodge family. 
Tim joined the United States Army Reserves in May, 1960 and later attended Montana State College (MSU Bozeman), graduating with a bachelor’s degree. He retained employment in Butte, moving to Denver, Colo. in 1966 where he worked in the banking industry. There he met Deanna Kay Wilken of Denver and they were married 2/16/1968 and later divorced. Tim returned to Helena in 1979 where he worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield as a computer programmer and raised his sons, Derek and Todd. Tim retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield in 1993 and spent the next several years pursuing his hobbies and past times. 
Tim enjoyed working with his hands. He did woodworking, creating carvings, refinishing antique furniture, and painting. He had belonged to bowling leagues, but his favorite past time was golf where he spent many happy hours, in the early years with his dad and brother, then teaching his sons the joys and skills of the sport, belonging to golf leagues and playing with a regular foursome at Bill Roberts Golf Course. Tim enjoyed football, especially the Denver Broncos and followed them avidly, watching games every weekend with his boys. Tim loved animals and kept dogs throughout his life. He got a kick out his regular visits from a couple of deer that he named when they frequented his back yard.
Tim was preceded in death by parents Ada and Art Johnson and brother and sister-in-law Art Jr. “Skip” and Dorothy Johnson. He is survived by his sons Derek Johnson and Todd (Amy) Johnson; grandchildren Rylee, Raeghan, Ryker, Abby, and Lilly; sister Doris Powell (Jim); niece Donna Downs; nephews Dan (Kathleen), Chris (Mary), Jeff (Amanda), and Paul; great-nephew and niece Cooper and Kennedey; and many cousins. 
Tim will be cremated and interred in Deer Lodge. No memorial or burial has been scheduled at this time due to COVID-19, but will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to a hospice program, animal shelter, or a charity of your choice. 
Tim’s family wish to offer a special thanks to his wonderful neighbors who offered their support to Tim and his entire family throughout the last several years, who helped him maintain his home and connections to the community; to his life-long friends Everette, Al, Jock, Mike, and Bob who helped cheer Tim on with calls, letters, and visits, and spent part of their last class reunion with him, bringing him news and much joy; to Marty, Duane, Clyde, and George who brought great friendship and joy on and off the golf course; to Tim’s extended family/cousins who kept Tim in their thoughts and prayers; and to the tireless and faithful staff of Big Sky Care Center, who made Tim feel safe, loved, and cared for. Thank you all!
Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Tim.

Nancy J. Kenny
Nancy J. Kenny, 76, passed away December 6, 2020 in Deer Lodge.  She was born July 20, 1944 to Joseph and Izetta (Myers) DeMarois in Anaconda where she attended grade school and graduated from Anaconda High School. 
She met her husband Jack of Anaconda, in Helena in 1976 and they married January 20, 1979 in Anaconda, where they lived until June of 1990 when they moved to the Deer Lodge Valley.  
Nancy worked at Deer Lodge school system as a Paraprofessional teacher’s aide and at the Colonial Manor Nursing Home. Nancy loved to sew and make quilts for all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  
Jack and Nancy enjoyed dancing and following the Old Time Fiddlers throughout Montana. They also enjoyed following their grandsons to the rodeos watching them bull ride. They also enjoyed camping and fishing with family and friends. Nancy had such a big heart and loved lending a helping hand to friends and family during weddings and gatherings.  
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, brother Ivan (Snooks) DeMarois, and son Walter I Fadness.  
She is survived by her husband Jack, daughters Tonna O’Neill (Greg) of Boulder, Jodi Ann DeMers (Banner) of Jefferson City. Grandchildren Lathe Fadness (Shelby), Sage Fadness, Myle O’Neill, Rosin O’Neill, Heston O’Neill, all of Boulder, Jubal DeMers, Talon DeMers, and Tyrel DeMers of Jefferson City. Great-grandchildren Hadley Fadness, and Mylo Fadness of Boulder. Brothers Bob DeMarois Chico, Calif. and Tom DeMarois of Anaconda, and many nieces and nephews who she dearly loved.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Services will be held at a later date.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Nancy’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Death Notice: Nancy J. Kenny
Nancy J. Kenny, 76, of Deer Lodge, MT, died on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at the Deer Lodge Medical Center, Deer Lodge. Celebration of Life Services will be held at a later date.
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral & Cremation Service is entrusted with Nancy’s funeral arrangements. You may pay your condolences at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com.

Betty Eleanora Smith
Betty Eleanora Smith, 94, of Elliston passed away December 1, 2020 at Beehive Assisted Living in Helena. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and she passed away peacefully in her sleep with her daughter by her side.
 Betty was born in Quincy, IL on July 9, 1926 and moved to Elliston with her parents, Sam and Ethel White, when she was just a toddler. Soon after, she became a big sister when her sister Jean was born. She graduated from high school in Elliston in 1944. She worked in Helena and helped her parents run their White’s Mountain Bar in Elliston for many years.
Betty married Don Smith in 1966 and had their daughter, Tanya, in 1967. The family moved to Deer Lodge in 1969 where Don worked for the MT State Prison Ranch and eventually served as the superintendent of the ranch until the time of his  retirement in 1981.  Betty worked at some local businesses in Deer Lodge, which included both of the local newspapers.   She developed many close relationships at her workplaces.
 She was especially close with her youngest granddaughter, Karlee. They were constant companions and she treasured the time she got to spend with Karlee making trips to Walmart, having lunch out on the town, or taking an afternoon break with a smoothie or some frozen yogurt. Betty was well known among her friends and loved ones for her kind, generous heart, her love of gardening, and her elaborate April Fool’s Day antics.
Betty was preceded in death by her father (Sam), mother (Ethel), brother (Sam Jr.), husband (Don), and sister (Jean). She is survived by her daughter Tanya (Emmett), and granddaughters Ashley (Nick) and Karlee (Trent), along with many friends in the Elliston and surrounding areas who will miss her dearly.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Beehive Assisted Living and Compassus Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Betty.
 A memorial service for Betty is planned for summer 2021 in Elliston.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Betty’s honor to the Elliston Community Cemetery, Elliston EMS, or Elliston 27 Club.

​Timothy T.J. Vincent
Timothy T.J. Vincent, age 45 of Butte, passed away in the early morning hours of November 23,2020 at his family home. T.J was born July 27, 1975 to Timothy James Vincent and Susan Jo Vincent in Mission. T.J attended grade school in Garrison. He also attended school in Deer Lodge and graduated from Butte High School in 1995. T.J. then moved to Idaho where he was employed by 44 Quick Stop for 20 years. T.J. made many life long friends during his years in Idaho. Due to health issues and to be near his family, T.J. moved back to Butte in July of 2019. T.J.’s hobbies and interests included remote control vehicles, digital artwork, computer gaming, and planning future gold panning with his dad and anything having to do with the Dukes of Hazzard car, the General Lee. T.J. also loved to work on vehicles, especially his Franken truck (1985 Dodge Ram Charger).
T.J was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Ernest and Florence Vincent who he loved dearly as they helped in raising him after his parents divorce, and his maternal grandparents, Stan Oliver and Josephine Smith. T.J is survived by his father Tim and stepmom Darci Vincent of Butte; his brothers, Nehemiah Vincent of Butte, Justin Webb of Idaho and John and Kisharra Colton of Maryland; nephew Dante Webb of Idaho, his mother Susan of Idaho and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins. T.J. will aways be remembered for his caring nature, his unselfish generosity and compassion, and an uncanny sense of humor in good times or bad. T.J. was also known as Big Red and Viking. You are and will be greatly missed and remembered.
To you, our Gunnar (Viking Warrior) Gott Natt (good night) AO UNNA (LOVE YOU).
Memorials to Butte  Food Bank and Butte Marine Corp League Toys for Tots.
Due to Covid-19, no services are planned at this time and will be announced at a later date. Cremation has already taken place.

William Dallas Foster, Jr.
William Dallas Foster, Jr. passed away on November 17, 2020 after a valiant fight with Leukemia.
He was born on October 16, 1934 in Deer Lodge to the late William and Florence Foster.
Bill married Meridene Ballinger on  April 16, 1989.
He served for 31 years with the United States Air Force retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant.
Bill is survived by his wife Meridene, five children, Vicki (Kelly) Foster, Dianna (Ed) Holzinger, Dallas Foster, Jay (Kristen) Ballinger and David Ballinger; three sisters, Nancy Corneil, Mikell Periman and Patty Foster; brother David Foster; ten grandchildren and a great-grandson.

Todd Allen Nedbalek
Todd Allen Nedbalek, October 20, 1968 – November 15, 2020.
Todd Allen Nedbalek was born October 20, 1968 to Sharon Ann Huggins at Greeley, Colo. Soon after, she married Robert Joe Nedbalek, who adopted Todd in mid-1969. 
Though he often described himself as understanding that he was a colicky baby, Todd was a healthy, curious and active child. He was a bright and eager student of things both educational and of life itself, most interested in science and nature. As a pre-teen, he was often heard to say that his life’s ambition was to both own and pilot the first commercial space craft to and from the planet Mars. Appointed to the United States Air Force Academy, many thought he might be headed to make that a reality, but his life went in other directions.
In August of 1991, Todd married the love of his life, Jenni Hillary, a union to which three children were born, Jenna, Nicholas and Maggie.
Todd loved the outdoors, and seemed always busy helping others with the tasks of life. But he was most passionate about food. Whenever someone called him a chef, he always countered by saying, “I’m a cook; I feed people.” He seemed most happy and at peace in the kitchen.
Todd passed away at home in Deer Lodge, on Sunday, November 15, 2020. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon, his Step-dad, Doug, and his brother, Mike. He is survived by his wife, Jenni, and his children, Jenna, Nick and Maggie “Moo,” his father, Rob and step-mom, “Mother Lori,” brothers Wade, Trebor, Glenn, David and Johnathan and sisters Chris, Tara and Danyelle, and many nieces and nephews, whom he cherished.
Todd returned to Montana, intent upon returning to the place he called home, in the Bull Mountains outside Roundup. He talked often of his memories of that place, on Harper’s Coulee; which always included his dog, Poacher, his pig, Guy, (who thought he was a dog,) and his chickens.
Paul, in Romans 6:4-5 said, “Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.” Todd firmly believed that he was joined to Jesus Christ in his baptism and would be joined to him in resurrection. 
Henry David Thoreau said “Spring is a natural resurrection, an experience in immortality.” A memorial service is planned in the spring, and his ashes will be spread in the place he called home.

​Kim Arthur Pfaff
​Kim Arthur Pfaff, our cherished husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed from this world and onto his next adventure on November 12, 2020.
Kim was born on September 24, 1963 to Willie and Cleo Pfaff in Kellogg, Idaho. He is survived by his wife Jody; children Aaron Breshears, Amy Breshears, and Damon Pfaff; his grandchildren Alexander Espanol, Mimi Espanol, and Kayla Breshears; his mother Cleo Pfaff, and siblings Lynn Pfaff, Tony Pfaff, Todd Pfaff, Penny Poche, and Pam Nelson. He was preceded in death by his father Willie Pfaff and his in-laws, Frank and Norma Kearby.
Kim grew up in Kellogg, establishing himself amongst his siblings as the adventuresome one. The whole family loved to fish and camp together, and legend has it, fishing in the Kellogg Valley is now poor because of Kim and his brothers cleaning up the waters there. Symbolic of his character, Kim preferred to sleep under the stars instead of under the roof of a tent or camper so he could gaze at the sky and dream big dreams.
Moving to California in his early twenties, Kim set out to forge a life and future of his own. He worked in petroleum, gaining the respect and friendship of his colleagues, along with a reputation for being a compassionate, fair, and honorable man. He had a passion for renewable energy and a fascination with the science of powering a clean and sustainable world. While in California, he met and married Jody, gaining a son and daughter in Aaron and Amy. Damon, the youngest, soon followed.
Kim’s passions were many, including duck hunting, good food, and Ram’s football, but he was never happier than when he was fishing (or talking about fishing) or in the company of his family. And when he could get his family to go fishing with him, or listen to his stories of being on the water, Kim would be in want of nothing.
Kim was immensely proud of his grandchildren and would cherish every moment spent with them. He found a true pal in Alex, who shared his propensity for quiet reflection and insight. He and Mimi loved to eat together, competing every Christmas Eve for who could put down the most cracked crab. Kayla, the baby, had a tight hold on his heartstrings and could always get anything she wanted from her protective Poppa.
Kim was lionhearted and resolute in his fight, and in his honor, we ask that memorials be given to the American Cancer Society, the Powell County Medical Foundation, or the Fishing League Worldwide Foundation.
A service funeral service was held and Kim was laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Kim. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Kim and his family.

Tina Joy Reza-Sproul
Tina Joy Reza-Sproul passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 surrounded by her loving family. Tina was born July 17, 1950 in Missoula, to Norma (Cooper) and Robert Hamilton. Tina grew up in Deer Lodge with her two younger sisters, Roxanna and Noreen and a half-brother named Jerod. After graduating high school in 1968, Tina married Keith M. Mitchell and had her son Michael S. Mitchell in 1969, then later her daughter Cynthia D. Mitchell in 1973. Later Tina remarried Mark S. Reza and moved to Texas where she completed her family with a daughter Rebecca M. Reza born in 1981. In 1999 Tina met her soulmate Mike O. Sproul who has two children, Jay Sproul and Jan Sproul. Tina and Mike resided in Wichita, Kansas where they built their life together. They enjoyed spending their weekends at their farm in Caldwell, Kansas where they later resided as their permanent home. Tina spent many years enjoying her 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren at the farm. You could easily find Tina exploring her artistic talents including making jewelry, gardening, sewing crafts, card making and scrapbooking. She loved traveling, hunting and being outdoors with her partner Mike and their grandchildren. Her service will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Caldwell Community Center, 119 East 1st Avenue Caldwell, KS 67022. Memorials may be made in Tina’s name to the Sumner County Hospital Construction Fund.

Death Notice: Gene Richard Meredith
Gene Richard Meredith, 62, of Deer Lodge, Montana passed away on Wednesday, November 18th, 2020. Simple Cremation Montana has assisted the family. To view the tribute page or share remembrances, visit: www.SimpleCremationMT.com.

Jan Ridley
Jan Ridley passed away peacefully on November 19, 2020 with her loved ones surrounding her at Deer Lodge Medical Center, Deer Lodge.  Jan was 73 years old.  Jan was born on February 22, 1947 in Billings to Gerald and Rosalin Neeley.  After her father’s death, she was raised by her step-father Woody Frailey and her mother.  Jan grew up in Anaconda, the oldest of four children.  She graduated in 1965.
After high school, she met the love of her life Noel Ridley and married on August 6, 1966 in Missoula.  Soon after they had four children. Noel passed in 1985 and she proceeded to raise her four children on her own.  Jan worked for Montana State Prison for 20 years doing payroll for the staff of the prison. She later worked for the Title and Registration office before retiring. 
 Jan was known to all to be one of the nicest people who always lent a helping hand to anyone and never asked for anything in return.   Jan spent many years in bowling leagues, gardening, canning, crocheting, enjoying her books, and was an avid movie lover especially of John Wayne Westerns.   
Jan was preceded in death by her husband Noel Ridley, her son Scott Ridley, and parents Woody Frailey, Gerald Neeley, and Rosalin Loesch.  Jan is survived by her sons, Keith Ridley of Helena, Matt and Lisa Ridley of Tigard Ore., and daughter Melinda and Linn Feliciano of Three Forks, and one granddaughter Hannah Feliciano of Bozeman.  Her brothers Blaine Neeley and Tim and Regina Frailey, and sister Hazel and Kyle Crouch.  Jan is also survived by special friends John Johnson of Deer Lodge, and Wendy Allen of Cutbank. 
The family would like to thank Deer Lodge Medical Center for their outstanding care of our mother during this time. We appreciate your kindness to our mother and to us.
Due to Covid restrictions Funeral Services will be in the spring 2021.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Jan. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Jan and her family.

​Kim A. Pfaff
Kim A. Pfaff, age 57, of Deer Lodge, passed away on November 12, 2020. A Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Jewell Funeral Home. Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Kim. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Kim and his family.

​Brandon Scott Rowland
​Brandon Scott Rowland, age 37, of Deer Lodge, passed away on November 12, 2020, of complications from sepsis.
He was born to Ruby Farabaugh and Barry Rowland on March 1, 1983, in Lynchburg, Virginia. His hometown was Garrett, Pennsylvania, and he graduated from Meyersdale Area High School, in Meyersdale, Pennsyvlania.
He loved playing video games, engaging in outdoor activities, riding four-wheelers, and collecting crystals and gemstones.
He is survived by his mother, Ruby Farabaugh and significant other, Ryan Maloney, of Deer Lodge; his father Barry Rowland of Altavista, Virginia; his step-dad, Thomas Farabaugh, of Deer Lodge; his brother and sister, Barry Rowland, Jr. and his wife, Angie, of Salisbury, Pennsylvania, and Amanda Rowland, of Cresson, Pennsylvania; his grandmother, Yvonne Rowland; his nephew, Andin; niece, Paisley; nieces, Natalie, Italia, and Evelyn; and numerous aunts and uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Ruby Williams; his grandfather, Robert Dudley Williams; and his grandfather, Alvis Rowland.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to American Heart Association.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Please visit www.buttefuneralhome.com to offer a condolence or share a memory of Brandon. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Brandon and his family.

Leonard Weisbeck
Leonard Weisbeck, 86, formerly of Opportunity/Anaconda, Montana, passed away Monday, November 9, 2020 in Livingston, Montana at the Diamond K Lodge. Leonard was born on February 4, 1934 in Lemmon, South Dakota the oldest child born to Francis and Alice (Johansson) Weisbeck. The family relocated to Montana while Leonard was still very young. They lived in the Bitterroot Valley and Leonard was a graduate of the Hamilton High School. He went on to attend Northern Montana College earning associate degree in nursing. Leonard worked many jobs including a sawmill, road construction, mining and finally nursing at the Warm Springs Prison as a nurse’s aide. He worked for the State of Montana in Warm Springs up until his retirement. Leonard was never a shy man and he was very eccentric and into various technical things. He did voice his opinion whether popular on not about wearing seat belts, politics, or the decline of the Ham-Radio operator. Yes! He was an impassioned Ham-Radio operator, his handle was N7SAF. He was intelligent, always tinkering with electronics, learning morse code, taking flying lessons, or teaching himself to play the guitar so he could play music with his child-hood friend Terrel Crane. Leonard had a passion for seeing old friends and always was excited for the Hamilton High School Reunions where according to his classmates he took lots of photographs and made home videos.  His classmates presented him with a plaque “Mr. Class Reunion - Class of 1959” and he cherished his time seeing old friends. He had lived most his later life in the area of Opportunity/Anaconda and had moved to Livingston just a couple of years ago to be closer to his caregiver, nephew and friend, Scott Weisbeck. Our peace be with you Leonard. He is survived by his brother, Dean (Reva) Weisbeck; nieces and nephews, Marchel “Shelly” (Greg) Ray, Gay (Huey) Curry, Lyle (Elizabeth) Weisbeck, Scott (Nicole) Weisbeck and Marvin (Veronica) Weisbeck, along with his long-time friend, Terrel Crane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Alice (Johansson) Weisbeck and his brother, Donald Weisbeck. Services are currently being planned for Spring/Summer of 2021.  For details please reach out to Scott at 406-333-1889 or weisbeck.scott@gmail.com. Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. To share condolences, please visit www.franzen-davis.com