Roger Motichka, 98

Roger Motichka, 98, lifelong resident of the Flathead Valley, passed away Sunday morning, Feb. 11, 2007, at Brendan House in Kalispell. Roger was born Jan. 24, 1909, on the family farm in Columbia Falls, the son of Frank and Alma (Tetrault) Motichka.

Roger's working career included the U.S. Forest Service, several lumber companies in the Flathead, including Stoltz Lumber of Columbia Falls, and Superior Lumber, from which he retired in 1974.

Roger was an avid and well-known horseman, woodcrafter and outdoorsman. He spent many years guiding pack trips into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, fishing and hunting for both business and pleasure. His talents as a woodcrafter, as well as his love for the outdoors, truly were passed along to his children and grandchildren.

His best and most well-known quality was his infectious sense of humor. He was always front and center with the newest and latest joke, and enjoyed making wooden brain teaser puzzles to share with family and friends.

On behalf of Roger, the family would like to extend a special thanks to the nurses and staff at Brendan House for their wonderful care for the past two years.

Roger was preceded in death by his wife, Lois, of 68 years; brothers, Arthur and Leonard; one sister, Ell; son, Warren Motichka; grandson, John Lawlor; and great-grandsons, Chad and Bo Motichka.

He is survived by daughters, Elaine Lawlor of Kalispell, and Pat Berg of Whitefish; 13 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, at Johnson Mortuary chapel. Urn burial will be afterward at Glacier Memorial Gardens. There will be no visitation.

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