William "Bill" Pearce McCart

William Pearce “Bill” McCart passed away at home, in Hamilton, on January 28, 2021, at the age of 96. Bill was born in Darby, Montana, on March 28, 1924, to William Clarence “Tim” McCart and Annie Mae Pearce McCart. McCart Lookout, up the east Fork was named after Bill’s grandfather. His mother was raised on the Pearce Ranch, in Nevada.

Bill spent his early years in the Bitterroot Valley. He graduated from high school in Lovelock, Nevada. After high school, he went to work for the CAA (later FAA) in Nevada, then enlisted in the Army. He was a radioman in a tank. He returned to Montana, in 1946. That is when he met Wilma Wilcox. They married and moved to Nevada. Bill resumed his career with the CAA. He used his GI Bill for flying lessons and became a flight instructor. Their daughter, Jessie, was born in Nevada.

Bill’s career with the FAA was stellar. Every promotion required a move for the family. Their son, Steven, was born in Hamilton, then they moved to Dillon. Subsequent moves were to: Hanksville, Utah, Prescott, Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Finally Denver, Colorado. He retired at the age of 55, and he and Wilma moved back to Montana. They split their time between their home in Montana and traveling in their motorhome. They visited 49 states and enjoyed time in Arizona. By the age of 89, Bill’s eyesight was failing, so the motorhome became guest quarters for friends and family.

Remaining family members include Bill’s devoted wife of almost 75 years, Wilma; daughter, Jessie McCart (Vic Smith); grandchildren, Traci (Joe) Flowers, Dustin (Annabelle) Dedmore, Adam Dedmore, Timm McCart, Nathan (Ingrid) Dedmore, Alicia (Tim) McCart; 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren.

We know Bill is now flying with the angels and hunting and fishing with his loved ones in heaven. The family is extremely grateful to the team at MDMH Hospice. The family plans to have services in June. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.

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