Alexander George 'Sandy' Colville, 50

Alexander George Colville, always known as Sandy, died of a ruptured gall-bladder Friday, June 24, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell, a month after his 50th birthday. He was born in London, England, on May 21, 1955, the elder son of Sir John and Lady Margaret Colville.

He had a private education at Sunningdale Preparatory School and then at Harrow, where he was noted for his angelic choir boy's voice and talent as a sportsman. Later, he took a diploma in journalism.

On the first leg of a trip around the world (starting in Canada), he found himself in Montana, and, apart from visits home to renew his visa and recover from a serious illness … he never left. He made his home in Kalispell, where he acquired a large and diverse circle of friends.

He achieved American immigrant status so he could get a green card, and finally, in the year 2000, he became an American citizen.

He founded the North American Wildlife Museum and Gift Store near West Glacier and worked tirelessly to make it the success it is today.

Sandy was a deadeye shot from a young age and was able to continue his passion for hunting in the mountains of Montana. He was also an excellent fisherman and an accomplished golfer.

He will be greatly missed by his friends and neighbors to whom he was known as a hard worker, loyal and fun-loving friend always ready to help anyone.

He is survived by his sister, Harriet Bowes-Lyon, of Scotland, and younger brother, Rupert Colville, of France, and their children.

Funeral services for Sandy will be held in his garden at 521 Maple Drive in Evergreen at 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2005, with Father William Baumgarten of Christ Church Episcopal officiating, and his burial will be in Scotland.