Clifford M. Jore, 81

Clifford M. Jore, 81, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2004, at his residence at Kila. He was born on Nov. 5, 1923, on a farm at Keene, McKenzie County, N.D., the son of Clarence and Marit (Haugen) Jore. He was one of eight children.

He took over the family farm in North Dakota at the age of 16 and took care of his mother until her death in 1956. Later he worked on the Keogh Ranch, in the oil fields, and was in partnership with his brother, Donald, in a service station in Billings for some time. He worked at a Moosehead Guest Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyo., in 1965; worked at the Kindred Livestock Barn in Bloomington, Ill., and a welding factory there.

On June 26, 1966, he was united in marriage to Sandra Bressner in Pontiac, Ill., and they bought the CM Quarter Circle Ranch at Kila in 1967. From that marriage, a son, Craig Michael Jore, was born on June 26, 1969, who became the love of his life.

He worked for Wilson Construction Co. for a while and then managed Walter Christmas Tree Co. and enjoyed harvesting many wild trees. He was a rancher at heart, loving that way of life. Though hard at times, he always loved what he did for a living. Raising cattle and horses and working the land made him happy. Neighbors would say he was always willing to lend a hand whenever help was needed.

He was a longtime member of the Montana Oldtime Fiddlers Association and loved to play his violins and dance. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Kalispell.

His family and closest friends meant everything to him. To his son Craig, Cliff was his role model, teacher, inspiration and true best friend. "I love you Dad and will miss you so very much."

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers and sisters, Selmer, Hazel, Cora, Lydia, Ernest and Arthur.

He is survived by his son, Craig Jore, of Kila; a brother, Donald Jore, of Billings; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Clifford Jore will be held at 4 p.m. today, Jan. 4, at the First Presbyterian Church in Kalispell. There will be no visitation.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be sent to the First Presbyterian Church, 540 South Main Street Kalispell, MT 59901; or the Humane Society of Northwest Montana, 3499 Hwy. 93 N. Kalispell, MT 59901; or to the charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson Mortuary & Crematory.

This paid obituary is being run again at the request of the family.