Billy Gene Proud, 86

Billy Gene Proud, age 86 of Dayton, passed away peacefully in Missoula on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. His family was by his side.

Billy was born Sept. 5, 1937 in Polson to Roy “Daryl” and Naomi “Berenice” (Thomas) Proud. He grew up in the Proctor/Dayton area and graduated from Polson High School in 1956.

He moved to Seattle and worked for Boeing. He was in the Army, stationed at Fort Ord from 1959-1962.

He moved back to Dayton and in the summer of 1963 was introduced to Barbara Jean Hutchinson. There was an instant bond between them, and they were married Dec. 28, 1963.

Billy and Barb moved to Columbia Falls, where Billy worked at Plum Creek. In September 1964 they welcomed their daughter, Brenda Jean; Brian Gene arrived in February 1966 and Bradley Gene arrived in January 1971. They lived in Columbia Falls until the summer of 1974 when they moved to Dayton, where Billy became the Postmaster of the Dayton Post Office. He retired in 1997.

Billy loved his family and was the type of person to help out anyone when they needed it. He loved fishing, golf, bowling and traveling. He also loved to drive. After his retirement, Billy took up woodworking.

He was known for his sense of humor, his crazy hats and, if in a crowd, all you had to do was listen for his laugh.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Daryl and Berenice, and his brother, Jimmy.

Billy is survived by his wife, Barbara Jean (Hutchinson) Proud; his daughter, Brenda Jean Korzun (Dave); his sons, Brian Gene (Carla) and Bradley Gene (Misty); three grandchildren, Mariah Proud and PJ and Tony Korzun; and one great-grandson, Lennon Proud.

The family will respect Billy’s wishes by not having services. They are planning on having a gathering of family and friends sometime this summer.

Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Memorial contributions may be sent to: barxproject.org.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.