Eugene Roy Piedalue, 80

Eugene Roy Piedalue (known by many as Chief or Gene) passed away at his home in Ronan on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009. Gene was born April 28, 1929, to Marcella (Hepp) and Edward Piedalue in Ronan and was raised on the family dairy farm with brothers Kenny, Bud and Floyd, and sister, Peggy. He delivered milk for Piedalues Dairy until 1953 when he began working for the Montana State Department of Highways from 1953 until 1992 in the engineering department. He retired from the Highway Department on a Friday and the following Monday started work for Schellinger Construction where he worked until 1999, retiring due to poor health. During these years he also farmed with his sons. He married Norma Bennett June 1, 1949. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Marcella; and sons, Edward and Ernest. He is survived by his wife, Norma; daughter, Pat, and Bob Bristol; and son, Leonard, and Gail; grandchildren, Charity and Monty Cheff, Ernie and Shannon Bristol, Jacinda and Michael Tenas, Ray and Kristie Dalke, and Thomas Dalke; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by brothers, Kenny and Marge, Bud and Phyllis, and Floyd and Sharon; and sister, Peggy and Dave Johnson. Rosary services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ronan. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, also in the church, with Father James Connor celebrating. Shrider-Thompson Funeral and Cremation Services of Ronan is assisting with arrangements.