Wesley Erman Kouns, 65

Wesley Erman Kouns, 65, passed away at his home Tuesday, April 18, 2006 in Kalispell. He was born Sept. 22, 1940, in San Diego to Erman and Edna (Swink) Kouns.

Wesley grew up hanging around his father's Texaco gas station, where his interest started with working on cars and trucks. He worked for San Diego Gas and Electric, then went to work for Gradel Company, operating heavy equipment and excavating.

On Jan. 17, 1960, Wesley married Donna Chandler in Las Vegas. Wesley built a car wash with his brother, and in 1970 he bought his own backhoe and started his own excavating business.

In 1973, Wesley moved his family and business to Kalispell where he loved to hunt and fish.

In 1996, Wes retired, passing his excavating work to his son, John.

Wes would share these words of wisdom; "Work hard and be your own person."

Wesley enjoyed trap shooting, hunting, fishing, and helping friends and family with projects. He loved landscaping, buying and repairing cars, trucks and equipment, and he loved playing with his grandchildren.

He was also a life member of the National Rifle Association.

Wesley was preceded in death by his father.

He is survived by his wife, Donna, and his son, John, and wife, Valerie, all of Kalispell; a daughter, Corie Kouns, and companion, Brian Wehlage; three grandchildren, Parker and Riley Kouns, and Jordan Wehlage; his mother, Edna Kouns, and brother, Charlie Kouns, and wife, Joan, all of San Diego; a sister, Virginia Embry, of Sabastopol, Calif.; and lots of loving family.

At Wesley's request, no ceremony will be held.

The family suggests memorial gifts be given to Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Ste. 100, Kalispell, MT 59901; or to the cancer research organization of the donor's choice.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Wesley's family.