Donald Lyght, 89

Donald Lyght, 89, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Don was born on Feb. 2, 1922, in Tekamah, Neb., to John D. and Eunice E. (Nelson) Lyght.  

Don served his country in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Berlin during World War II. 

In his early years he worked as a logger in Kalispell, and then worked for Milwaukee Railroad in Deer Lodge, as a prison guard at the Old Montana State Prison in Deer Lodge, as well as for the Anaconda Company at the smelter in Anaconda and at the Berkley Pit in Butte for 35 years as a heavy equipment shovel operator.

Don loved Friday night dancing; fishing; family outings; woodwork; card and board games; rock, gem and mineral collecting; and he loved animals and music. His favorite song was “In the Mood” by Benny Goodman. He was a member of the Central Bible Church.

He was truly a blessing for Anna and her family. We had some great times camping, huckleberry picking, s’mores around the campfire, anniversary and birthday parties, family reunions, Sunday dinners at Wes and Pam's, and homemade cinnamon rolls.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eunice Lyght; brother, Earl Lyght; first wife, Beth (Engle) Lyght; and daughter, Cheri Plute.

Don is survived by his wife, Anna (Luckenbill) Lyght; son-in-law, Don Plute of Butte; daughter, Donna Lyght of Butte; stepsons, Vern and wife Joyce Holmquist of Phoenix, Wes and wife Pam Holmquist of Kalispell, Ed and wife Shirley Holmquist of Vancouver, Wash.; 14 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

He is loved by his family and friends, and all will miss his smile.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 25, at Central Bible Church in Kalispell. Inurnment will follow at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. 

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Don's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Don's tribute wall.