Joe Ed Boggess, 55

Joe Ed Boggess, 55, passed away July 3, 2007, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. He spent his formative years on the family farm in Friona, Texas.

In 1970, he moved to Colorado where he began his career in building and met his wife to be, Wendy Watson. Joe and Wendy were married outdoors in the Rocky Mountains on April 29, 1972. Their love for the mountains brought them to Montana in 1974 where they raised their children, Dusty Dara and Jared.

Joe worked as a fire lookout at Werner Peak and could be found skiing the slopes of Big Mountain in his spare time. He loved music, especially playing guitar with the Mission Mountain Band. Joe continued his work in carpentry and artisan woodcraft. His creativity can be seen all over the Flathead Valley and other areas of Montana.

When he wasn't building, Joe enjoyed fishing from the "Joe Boats" and, most recently, spending his days at the family property near Koocanusa Reservoir. Joe passed on the building tradition to his son and shared his many talents with family and friends. Some favorites include, playing pool, cooking for others, and time spent soaking at Ainsworth Hot Springs.

We will miss his humor and friendship. As quoted on one of Joe's many hats, he was "like oil, crude yet priceless". We love you, Joe.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Doris Boggess; brother-in-law, Doug Watson.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Wendy Boggess; children, Dara and David Whittington of Seattle, Jared and Tessa Boggess of Whitefish; grandchildren, Zane and Bella; sister, Robbie Boggess; sisters, Pat, Brenda and Marsha; brothers, Mike, Ricky and David; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service honoring Joe's life will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 10 at the Whitefish Lake Lodge.