Stanley George Tobol

RONAN - Stanley George Tobol, 82, of Ronan died of natural causes Dec. 2, 2004, at Community Medical Center in Missoula.

Stan was born Feb. 22, 1922, in Helena to John and Helen (Kokoruda) Tobol. He grew up on the homestead ranch at McClellan Creek outside of East Helena with seven brothers and sisters and those times remained within his heart his entire life.

Stan married the love of his life, (Alice) Jeanette Doggett, on Sept. 13, 1941, and they loved for a total of 63 years. A son, Ron, was born Nov. 24, 1942, and Dave on Oct. 18, 1943.

Stan was inducted into the Army on Dec. 13, 1943, and served in WWII. He served in the European Theater, Central Europe, Germany and Northern France, seeing combat in such battles as the Battle of the Bulge and Normandy.

He was discharged on Dec. 8, 1945, and returned to East Helena. His daughter, Sue, was born July 15, 1947.

Dad worked for the ASARCO smelter in East Helena for 25 years. He was then employed by the Helena School District's maintenance supervisor for the vocational technical school for 10 years. He also ranched and drove truck for many years. He retired in March 1982.

Dad had a special compassion and knowledge of animals, especially horses. Since Dad was a cowboy from way back, his family knows he is riding his horse Copper now and enjoying every minute of it.

He especially loved camping and fishing, horses and rodeos. But most of all, he loved and enjoyed his family.

In September 2001, Mom and Dad were fortunate to celebrate their 60th anniversary at the home of grandson Steve in Ronan with every single family member able to attend. His latest great-granddaughter, 10-month-old Tori, also recently visited him from California.

Dad was a fantastic father, awesome grandfather, devoted husband and good friend to many

Preceding him in death were his parents, three sisters and three brothers.

He is survived by his wife Jeanette at the Ronan family home; three children, Ron (Helen) of Bozeman, Dave (Judy) of Ronan and Sue (Gary) of East Helena; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and a brother, Bob of Helena.

He will be held with love and respect within our hearts until we see him again "just beyond the moon."

Cremation has taken place and private family services will be held sometime next spring. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.