David Leon O'Masters, 75

David Leon O’Masters was born in Woodland California October 3, 1942 to parents Lovell O’Masters and Marie Schiebelhut. He had two sisters, Barbara Jean and Marie Ann, and a brother, Conrad.

Dave met and married his lovely wife Bonnie in California, April 1967. They lived together a short time in Nevada and Colorado until settling in Montana; having children along the way. Dave and Bonnie are proud parents of Robert, David, Kathy, Michael and Sandy O’Masters. Proud grandparents of Ryan, Kyla, Colton, Emily and Megan O’Masters; Logan and Pride Jessen.

Dave joined the Navy and proudly served his country in Vietnam. After the Navy, he worked as a welder for Fruehauf Trailer Company. Dave also worked in stockyards near Denver before settling in Montana. In Montana, he worked as a ranch hand and eventually retired from Lake County Road Department after 25 years of service.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and the outdoors. He also played guitar, was a silver smith and had many hobbies.

After retiring, Dave and Bonnie moved to Anaconda, MT where Dave joined and served in the Catholic Church, was a member of Search and Rescue and received Knight of the Year in 2015 by the Knights of Columbus. Dave served on the American Legion Honor Guard, helped Veterans as a driver for the DAV where he was awarded The President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2015 and Certificate of Appreciation in 2016. Dave proudly served his country, family, church and community. While Dave will be greatly missed he serves now with our Lord Jesus Christ. For all who know Dave, you’ll best remember him as an ornery little chicken hawk!

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to Jove, to work or play. -Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found that place at the close of day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I’ve savored much. Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your heart and share with me ... God wanted me now, He set me free.

For all who would like to celebrate Dave’s life, please join us on Saturday, October 21, 2017. The Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Church in Anaconda, MT at 10:30 a.m. Rite of Committal with Military Honors will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Anaconda. A reception will follow services at the Holy Family Church.