Douglas J. Wold, 85

Sept. 16, 1939 – March 8, 2025, Polson

Douglas Jerome Wold, 85, of Polson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected attorney, passed away on March 8, 2025, peacefully at his lake home in Polson.

Born in Billings on Sept. 16, 1939, Doug grew up in Laurel and graduated from Laurel High School in 1957. He pursued higher education with distinction, earning a B.S. in Finance from the University of Montana in 1960 before continuing his studies in business administration at the University of Southern California.

He later earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Montana in 1965, followed by advanced legal studies at the University of Virginia’s School of Law and an L.L.M. in Taxation from The George Washington University in 1968.

Doug married the love of his life, Linda Madsen Wold, in 1961. In 1969 they moved to the west shore of Polson. They lived there for 50 years and built a beautiful home and life, raising three children and sharing adventures across Montana and the world.

His legal career was one of deep service and excellence, beginning with his time in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, as a first lieutenant where he served as a prosecutor and later as appellate defense counsel in Washington, D.C. He went on to become an assistant attorney general for Montana before establishing a private law practice that served Polson, Kalispell and Whitefish for over five decades.

An influential figure in Montana’s legal community, Doug held leadership roles in the State Bar of Montana, serving as its president, and was a founding member of the Montana Trial Lawyers Association Trial Academy.

He dedicated years to improving civil jury instructions as chairman of the Montana Supreme Court Commission and was recognized among Montana’s top lawyers. His passion for the law was matched by his commitment to mentorship and advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on the legal profession. 

He was also very active in Rotary, Jaycees, Cursillo and the Episcopal Church.

Beyond his career, Doug was a man of many interests. He was an avid traveler, a lifelong learner, master story teller and a skilled woodworker. He found peace in his gardens, joy in his books, boating on Flathead Lake, skiing on Big Mountain, fishing and floating on the Swan River, and fulfillment in teaching and sharing knowledge.

He treasured time with his family and friends at their homes on Flathead Lake, Big Mountain, and the Swan River, creating lasting memories with his children and grandchildren.

Doug was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda.

He is survived by his children, Chantel (Bob) and their son Ethan; Clay; and Chad (Katie) and their five sons, Zander, Keegan, Story, Bode, and Decker. His legacy of integrity, wisdom, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 3, on the shores of Flathead Lake at The Shoe. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Children’s Alliance of Montana at childrensalliancemt.org. 

Family condolences can be sent to woldlawfirm@gmail.com.