Lyle Alton Blackburn, 51

Lyle Alton Blackburn, 51 , passed away Sunday, April 24, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Lyle was born Oct. 2, 1953, in Ft. Meyers, Fla. As a young child, Lyle spent his years growing up in the Bigfork area. He graduated from grade school and then was a self-taught man with many skills.

Lye had worked in various fields including mechanical, timber industry, construction and was retired from them all.

Lyle was a real family man who enjoyed camping, fishing and mechanics as a hobby.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents, Marietta Todd and Lyle Blackburn, and a dear friend, Coby Bradshaw.

He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Laura Higgins; five sons, William and wife, Michelle, of Whitefish, James and wife, Michelle, of Kalispell, Anthony and Lyle Jr., both of Kalispell, and Joey Reczek of Great Falls; three daughters, Gina Reczek of Great Falls, Amber Donovan at the family home in Kalispell; and Michelle Sprouse Blackburn of Whitefish; a sister, Vera Lockwood and husband, Jim, of Helena; eight grandchildren, Alexander, Brady, Izabella, Kyla Mae, and Chelsey Blackburn, Allyssa Elavsky, Sean Reczek and Trinity Mestus.

Memorial services will be held 2 p.m. today, April 27, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home Chapel.

The family requests memorial contributions to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, 1732 S. 72nd Street, Billings, MT 59106; or the local humane society, 43 Woodland Park Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.