Leslie Osburn

HAMILTON - Leslie Osburn, 87, was born June 27, 1922 in Corvallis, Montana to Effie Lenora Chaffin Osburn and Claud Osburn, and passed peacefully on November 6, 2009. His entire life was spent in the Bitterroot Valley. He attended grade school in Victor and graduated in 1940 from Hamilton High School. In 1942 he married his high school sweetheart, E. Maxine VanBlaricom. Their 67 years of marriage was blessed with 5 children, 14 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren. His working years were spent at Safeway, Rocky Mountain Lab, and Osburn Dairy; which was founded by his father. After retirement in 1985 he helped his youngest son, Darryl, with his businesses.

Les was a devoted family man with high principles and strong moral values. He had a quiet demeanor and a strong sense of humor. His early farming days followed him throughout his life and every year his family and friends could count on a bountiful harvest from the garden he tended. He took his family on many camping, fishing, hunting, and backcountry trips throughout the Bitterroot Mountains. His time in the mountains with his family was very important to him. He instilled in all a deep love and respect for nature and all outdoor activities that continues to pass from generation to generation.

He was preceded in death by siblings Louise, Jamie and Ernie. He is survived by his beloved wife, Maxine, who continues to reside at the family home in Hamilton. He is also survived by his brother, Glen, and wife Phyllis of Idaho Falls, ID. Also surviving are his children: Dennis Lee Osburn and wife Carolyn of Polson, with 2 children: Troy and Trevor, Vicky Lynn Osburn Gardner and husband Davar of Kalispell, with 5 children:

Todd, Tonia, Tyler, Tracy and Trent, Rodney Jay Osburn and wife Valene of Polson, with 2 children: Thad and Tara, L. Darryl Osburn and wife Jackie of Hamilton, with 2 children: Kyla and Talicia, and Lori Ann Osburn Allred of Tremonton, UT with 3 children: Trishia, Levi and Laci. He will be missed by all.

Those wishing to honor him with a memorial are encouraged to donate to Marcus Daly Hospice (1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840) or the charity of their choice, in Les's name.