Duane D. "Buck" Hafer

HAMILTON - Duane D "Buck" Hafer, 84, of Hamilton passed away Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 at his home.  He was born in Forsyth, MT October 6, 1932, the son of Clarence "Pappy" and Florence "Ma" Hafer.

Buck graduated high school in Stevensville 1952 and spent two years in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956.  He married the love of his life in 1959 and had over 50 wonderful years with her. Raising four children on the ranch, milking cows at the dairy, raising all of the typical farm animals any kid would love or learn to hate along with a large garden to harvest each year as well as a full time job at Rocky Mountain Lab in Hamilton.

For fun and a little relaxation, he would load up family and friends for a camping and fishing weekend.

Buck was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Chris; a sister, three brothers, two sons and a great grandson.  He is survived by four children, daughter, Juanita & Jerry Baecht of Hamilton, son, Dale and Amy Hafer of Hamilton, son, Eddie of Corvallis and son, George and Charlotte of Helena; along with 10 grandchildren and 15 great- grandchildren.

Buck is resting in the arms of his loving Savior and dancing under the stars with his love.  Dad, Grandpa and Grandpa Bumpa, we will miss you dearly and think of you often.

Family and friends are invited to Buck’s graveside services with Military Honors to be held on Friday, Aug. 25, 2017 at 4:00 pm at Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton with a reception following in the Daly-Leach Chapel Community Room.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made in Buck’s name to the Hamilton Senior Center or the Bitterroot Humane Association.  Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.