Eldon D. Wildey

HAMILTON – Eldon D. Wildey, 81, of Hamilton passed away Sunday, August 6, 2017.  He was born January 3, 1936 in Sturgis, SD to Morris and Bertha Wildey, who preceded him in death.

His family moved to Darby where Eldon graduated from Darby High School in 1954.  During his senior year he joined the National Guard, and later that year joined the U.S. Navy.  After his honorable discharge for the U.S. Navy, he joined the U.S. Army Reserve.  Eldon was very proud of his service to his country.  In 1958 he married Ruth Lovett in Kingsville, Texas.  He and Ruth moved to Hamilton where they have resided for 58 years.

Eldon worked for the State of Montana Highway Department and retired in 1998.  Eldon enjoyed ALL of the great Montana outdoor activities, too numerous to list.  He loved sharing these activities with his children and grandchildren.

Eldon was a great handyman, always willing to help anyone who needed it.  But, during all of his life’s activities, Eldon always put God first.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth of 58 years; daughter, Judith and husband David Nordman of Stevensville; and son, Monte, and his wife Cher Wildey of Pasco, Washington.  Also surviving are sisters, Bonnie (Phil) Richards of Hamilton, Jeanette (Jerry) Shook, of Darby, and Janice Applebury of Hamilton; grandchildren, Rachel and Matthew; step-grandchildren, Heather, Drew and Ethan and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. at Riverview Cemetery.  There will be a reception following the services at the Daly-Leach Community room.