Jerry Allan Milligan

Hamilton - Jerry Allan Milligan, age 93, of Hamilton, MT passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 07, 2016 in Great Falls, MT.

Jerry was born in Idaho Falls, ID on April 12, 1922. He was the eldest son of Robert William Milligan and Elva Ann Smith Milligan.  He attended primary and secondary school in Idaho Falls, ID. Jerry graduated from Utah State Agriculture College in 1950 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry, and a minor in General Agriculture. He also was an officer in the United States Marine Corps and served during World War II from 1942-1945, receiving an honorable discharge.

On June 23rd, 1943, Jerry married Elizabeth (Bette} Weaver in Idaho Falls, ID. They were married 57 years. They moved to Hamilton, MT in 1953 where they raised their family of five children. They also raised beaver, fox, and marten on West Side Road for many years, retiring in 1988.  After retiring, Jerry went to work for Fetch Inn Hunting Preserve.  He took care of the hunting dogs and assisted with the pheasant hunts.

Jerry was a respected, active, and dedicated civic person. He served as President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce; Commander of American Legion; was a school board member for nine years; and was also the head of the Fair Program in Hamilton for many years. He also was the head finish judge at high school track meets from 1954-1985. He was in demand in this capacity at many meets throughout the state, including college meets. Jerry was presented with the "Lay Citizen of the Year Award" by the State Board of Education in 1986.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Bette; brother, Larry Kent Milligan; and his parents. Survivors include his children: Janet (Bert} Wagner of Salt Lake City  UT; Sherry (Ed) Tennant of Hamilton, MT; Larry (Kristie} Milligan of Great Falls, MT; Clarice (Glen) Anacker of Kalispell, MT; Lisa (Gerry) Nolan of Anaconda, MT. Also grandchildren: Blake (Amy) Wagner, Cole Wagner, Echo (David} Allison, Autumn Bonds, Wendy (Ole) Fiske, Kayce Milligan, Jered (Becca) Milligan, Katie Nolan, Mary Nolan, and Mackey Nolan. Great grandchildren: Molly Wagner, Cody Bonds, Raymond Allison, Soren Fiske, and Norah & Ian Milligan.

Graveside services will be military honors will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at 10:00 am at Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton. Memorials are suggested to the Hamilton American Legion Post 47, or to the charity of your choice.