Bernard 'Barney' Ill, 92

Bernard "Barney" Ill, passed away Friday, July 3, 2009, at his residence in Bigfork. Barney was born Jan. 13, 1917, in Southern California to Harold and Gertrude (Kiershea) Ill.

Barney served his country in the Army Air Force and enjoyed flying the B-25 Mitchell bomber. Upon discharge after the war, he was employed with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and retired after 31 years.

Barney met and married the love of his life, Ethel Tartkington, on July 17, 1943, in Visalia, Calif. They were married for 61 years before Ethel preceded him in death, in 2004.

Barney was a life member of the Elks Lodge in Kalispell.He enjoyed camping, listening to jazz and Dixieland music, and making model airplanes and race cars.He had a love of working on his own vehicles, as well as building and rebuilding motorcycles.

He is survived by his two children, Marilyn Courtney and Kenneth W. Ill, both of Bigfork; along with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Memorials are suggested to Hospice or to the Humane Society in Kalispell.

At his request, there will be no public services.

To send condolences, please go to www.buffalohillfh.com. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.