Billie C. Crawford, 57

Billie C. Crawford, 57, died at his daughter's home Thursday, Oct. 5, 2006, in Columbia Falls due to terminal cancer, with his family and best friend, Russ Sindt, at his side.

Bill was born Oct. 15, 1948, in Minot, N.D. He grew up on a farm in Garrison, N.D., and attended school in White Shield, N.D.

He entered the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam.

After his discharge from the Army, he was married to Gloria Jean Frey in 1973. In September 1973, they had their firstborn, Billie Jean Crawford. They then moved to the Flathead, and in 1976, they had their second daughter, Donna Crawford.

Billie worked for Plum Creek for 25 years and then went to work for Riverside Windows and Doors.

He was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and fought it for almost four years.

He enjoyed woodworking at his home on Rogers Road, his family and friends, hunting, fishing, and having a farm. He enjoyed gardening the most.

Billie is survived by his daughters, Billie Jean 'BJ' (Monte) Scott, and Donna (Travis) Berggren; his pride and joy, his grandchildren, Michael Calbick, Shelby Scott, Kristen Scott, Trevor Berggren, and Tyler Berggren; his brother and sisters, Jack Crawford, Joyce Nelson, Joan Slobojan, and Sandra McCoun; and many nieces and nephews.

He rests in peace with his beloved wife, Gloria Crawford; his mom and dad, Gladys and Charles Crawford; two sisters, Janice Claussen and Marilyn Kerzmann; and a brother, Roger Crawford.

He will be sadly missed by family and friends.

A viewing will be held from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2006, at the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006, at the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls. Burial will be afterward in Woodlawn Cemetery with military graveside honors.

A potluck reception will be held after the graveside committal at 4 p.m. at the Eagles Club in Columbia Falls. Children are welcome to come.